When most people think of bookkeeping, they picture spreadsheets, software, and endless rows of numbers. But for Josh Chu, a freelance bookkeeper based in Rhode Island, it’s also about vision—particularly when it comes to long-term financial growth. One of Josh’s biggest personal interests is investing, and it plays a surprising yet valuable role in how he serves his small business clients.
Josh’s investing journey began during his college years at the University of Rhode Island, where he earned his Bachelor's in Accounting. While studying financial reports for class, he found himself digging deeper into stock market trends and economic patterns. That curiosity quickly turned into a passion. Today, he follows financial publications, listens to market analysis podcasts, and actively monitors his own investment portfolio.
But how does this hobby translate into better service for his clients?
“Investing requires discipline, analysis, and risk management—three skills that apply directly to bookkeeping,” Josh Chu explains. When helping clients budget or review expenses, he brings the same mindset he uses for evaluating stocks: Look at the data, identify trends, and make informed decisions based on long-term goals.
This broader financial perspective allows Josh to do more than just track income and expenses. He’s able to offer context—why certain financial patterns might be occurring, or how shifting economic conditions could impact a business’s cash flow. His clients benefit from insights that go beyond the ledger.
Josh’s passion also enhances client conversations. When entrepreneurs are planning expansions or new investments, he can speak their language. His understanding of financial markets allows him to explain concepts clearly and connect numbers to real-world implications.
Ultimately, investing isn’t just a personal interest for Josh—it’s a tool that sharpens his professional edge. And as markets continue to evolve, so does his ability to bring deeper value to every client relationship.