This document defines investment and outlines various investment instruments. It states that investment involves putting money into an asset with the goal of earning a return proportionate to the risk over a future period. Some common investment instruments are equity shares, bonds, mutual funds, gold, real estate, bank deposits, post office saving schemes, and provident funds. Riskier investments include real estate, art, businesses, and equity shares, while less risky options consist of bank deposits, post office saving schemes, provident funds, and insurance policies. The document categorizes different financial assets based on their relative risk levels.