more than 90% of the so called investors that invest in individual stock will lose money in medium/long run due to poor emotion, frequent trading, lacks of holding power and knowledge.
This odds is even worst than gambling.
My advise for non-professional investor is to buy ETF or unit trust only. 

Individual stock is just too risky.

Yes Individual stock is not that risky IF you know what you are buying.  That will require an extensive amount of research and knowledge on its finances which most ppl don't have time for.

If u think UT charges is expensive than ETF will be a better option.