When I buy stock in a company on a exchange, or mutual funds, ETF's, Index funds, I am investing, I am expecting a gain on my investment
When I buy shares of a company for pennies, then I am gambling.
Granted, I still do due diligence, share structure, management statements,
But I recognize it is a huge gamble, hopefully reaping huge rewards, far greater than possible with a investment. And I never expect to lose my gambles
Although I have , my 1st several forays into the pennies I considered a college education fee. Have done better since then