12 essential personal finance books: Transform your relationship with investing in 2025

The new year is an invitation to rethink strategies and acquire knowledge that was missing. For those who want to evolve in business, broaden their view of the financial market, and finally understand how to build wealth, reading is an indispensable tool. While many take advantage of downtime for pure rest, professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors can use this time to prepare their minds and refine their mindset about money and wealth growth.

The best books on financial education cover everything from fundamental concepts to in-depth analyses of behavior, leadership, and market strategy. If the goal is to start 2025 with sharp thinking and readiness to prosper, the selection below offers exactly that.

The 12 main works every investor should know

1. The Intelligent Investor, by Benjamin Graham

This is considered the reference book for those who want to invest with solidity and effectiveness. Benjamin Graham developed the fundamentals of value investing, presenting a rigorous methodology to evaluate companies and identify those trading below their intrinsic value in the market. His approach protects against emotional traps that often lead investors to make mistakes during periods of extreme volatility.

Warren Buffett’s recognition is revealing: he states this is “by far, the best book on investing ever written.” Ideal for those seeking to master fundamental analysis and build a solid long-term portfolio.

2. Rich Dad, Poor Dad, by Robert Kiyosaki

Having remained a benchmark in personal finance for two decades, this bestseller changed the way millions understand wealth management. Kiyosaki contrasts teachings from his biological father – a professional with a conventional mindset – with his “rich dad” – an entrepreneurial mentor who accumulated capital by investing in real assets.

The book uncovers the crucial distinction between assets and liabilities, how to make smart investments, and the importance of creating multiple streams of income. Despite criticisms of oversimplification, it’s perfect for beginners who want to transform their relationship with money and build financial independence.

3. Financial Psychology, by Morgan Housel

Understanding numbers is only half the equation for market success. This book, with over one million copies distributed worldwide, reveals how emotions, past experiences, and unconscious patterns shape financial choices.

Morgan Housel explores how fear and greed – the most destructive emotions – influence the market. He demonstrates that patience and discipline often surpass sophisticated technical skills. Essential for aligning strategy with emotional control.

4. Antifragile, by Nassim Nicholas Taleb

In a world full of uncertainties, resilience alone is insufficient. Taleb introduces the concept of “antifragility” – the ability to strengthen precisely in chaotic and unpredictable contexts. Through economics, statistics, and philosophy, the author shows how to thrive when everything seems disorganized.

Investors learn to structure portfolios prepared for crises, while entrepreneurs discover that chaos often generates extraordinary opportunities. A transformative read for those seeking a more strategic approach in risk scenarios.

5. Investments – The Secrets of George Soros and Warren Buffett, by Mark Tier

Mark Tier analyzes the contrasting strategies of two giants: Warren Buffett, famous for his patience and focus on the long term; and George Soros, recognized for his bold macroeconomic bets. He unveils the principles that guided their decisions – fidelity to strategy and quick adaptation.

Provides practical inspiration to refine your own approach as an investor, showing that different styles can lead to success when well-founded.

6. Out of the Curve, by Pierre Moreau

This book gathers experiences from major figures in the Brazilian financial market, revealing mistakes, successes, and lessons from those working behind the scenes. It presents a practical approach to identifying opportunities specific to the local context.

Indispensable for investors who want to understand the particularities of the national market and apply strategies adapted to the Brazilian reality.

7. Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind, by Yuval Noah Harari

Although not specifically about finance, this work is fundamental to understanding the roots of economic systems and human motivations. Harari investigates how societies evolved, the origin of monetary structures, technological revolutions, and how power shapes markets.

For investors, it offers a historical perspective on how trends transform the future. A valuable complement to develop strategic thinking and broadly contextualize financial decisions.

8. Principles, by Ray Dalio

Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater Associates, shares the values and practices that guided his life. The work blends philosophical reflection with practical tools for decision-making in complex scenarios. Dalio presents methodologies applicable to both investments and business management.

An essential read for leaders and entrepreneurs who want to align their personal and professional lives with well-founded strategic decisions.

9. Thinking, Fast and Slow, by Daniel Kahneman

The Nobel Prize-winning economist explores how two mental systems – fast (intuitive) thinking and slow (analytical) thinking – influence financial decisions. Kahneman demonstrates how to recognize mental traps that lead to errors.

Combining neuroscience and finance, it offers essential insights for those who want to improve critical analysis and recognize harmful behavioral patterns.

10. The Richest Man in Babylon, by George S. Clason

Published nearly a century ago, this classic remains a fundamental read for financial management and wealth building. Through parables set in ancient times, Clason teaches timeless principles: live within your means, save consistently, and invest consciously.

Simple and straightforward, it’s perfect for beginners and those who want to reinforce essential fundamentals before more sophisticated strategies.

11. The Snowball Effect, by Alice Schroeder

This detailed biography of Warren Buffett explores his financial decisions and the progressive building of his billionaire fortune. It reveals how his strategies can be replicated and adapted by any investor on their journey.

Offers inspiration and practical lessons on resilience, consistency, and long-term thinking applicable to anyone looking to build wealth.

12. Freakonomics: The Hidden Side of Everything, by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner

Economist and journalist analyze everyday issues from an unconventional economic perspective. The authors demonstrate that economics goes beyond money: it’s about incentives, human choices, and their unexpected consequences.

Combining data, theories, and engaging narratives, they reveal surprising connections. It invites the reader to question the incentives behind decisions in markets, business, and beyond, turning this into a tool for more strategic and conscious decision-making.

Why invest time in financial education now

Downtimes present a unique opportunity to slow down and cultivate deep learning. By dedicating yourself to reading that educates and inspires, you can start 2025 with a mindset better prepared for the challenges of the financial market.

These 12 best books on financial education combine practical knowledge, strategic reflections, and wisdom that transform how you face investments, business, and personal development. Each work offers a unique perspective, contributing to a more complete and balanced view of how to build sustainable wealth.

Take advantage of the available time to reflect, plan, and integrate these teachings into your journey. The knowledge gained today will be the difference you carry into 2025 and beyond.