You can make riskier investments that might earn higher returns. Investing in individual stocks that pay dividends is a smart strategy. Advertiser Disclosure. Crowdfunding offers high risk, as many new ventures fail, but also the prospect of higher earnings. Editorial Disclosure: This content is not provided or commissioned by the bank advertiser. She points out that the real risk lies in not investing. CDs currently earn a small amount of interest, however, any interest does add up.