Extra cash doesn’t have to mean extra effort. Mark Cuban knows how to make money work harder than he does, and his passive income moves reflect that mindset. They’re simple, scalable, and realistic. If you’re aiming to create lasting financial support, these 10 strategies are a solid place to begin.
Invest In Dividend-Paying Stocks
Mark Cuban recommends dividend-paying stocks for consistent, long-term income. These stocks regularly return cash to shareholders—no selling is required. Many companies, known as “dividend aristocrats,” have increased payouts for 25+ years. Reinvesting those dividends can boost total returns beyond average market performance.
License A Product You Invented
Instead of building a business, Mark Cuban suggests licensing your invention to companies that handle production. You’ll earn royalties with fewer costs. Even without a patent, strong concepts can get licensed. Products like Velcro and Post-it notes became billion-dollar brands this way. Cuban has funded similar ideas.
Start A Subscription-Based Newsletter
Email newsletters are becoming a serious income source. With platforms like Substack, writers can earn through brand deals or paid subscriptions. Many bring in $50,000 to $100,000 a year. What makes it powerful? Total control over audience reach—something social platforms often can’t guarantee.
Invest In Index Funds
Cuban and Buffett are both fans of the S&P 500 index fund, and for good reason. These funds reflect the entire market, need little managing, and historically bring in about 10% annually. Their shared advice is to stay away from active trading unless you’ve mastered the strategy.
Peer-To-Peer Lending
Through online platforms, you can lend money directly to borrowers and earn interest. Returns often range from 6% to 10%, depending on credit risk. Cuban supports models that cut out traditional banks. Minimum investments are as little as $25 on some sites, making this a flexible and accessible passive income path.
Buy Cash-Flowing Small Businesses
Purchasing an already profitable small business, like a laundromat or vending route, can provide steady income with limited effort. Many sell for under $500,000 and yield returns above 20%. With proper systems in place, owners can step back while the business continues generating revenue.
Invest In Tokenized Assets With Built-In Income
Blockchain technology now allows fractional ownership of real-world assets like property or music royalties. These tokenized investments can generate steady income. Platforms such as Royal and Rally distribute earnings to holders. The approach makes once-exclusive assets accessible.
License A Mobile App Idea
You don’t need to build the next viral game to profit from apps. A helpful idea, when licensed to developers or businesses, can generate recurring revenue through ads or subscriptions. Outsourcing the build keeps things passive, and utility-focused apps usually provide the strongest, most reliable income over time.
Buy And Rent Out Digital Real Estate
Mark Cuban sees value in owning online assets like domains and websites. Renting out a high-demand domain or monetized site can bring a steady income. Some domains lease for thousands each month. Even small niche websites often earn between $500 and $5,000 with minimal upkeep.
Create A Niche Online Course
Building an online course lets you earn repeatedly from a single effort. Platforms like Teachable and Udemy handle payments, hosting, and promotion. Instructors in focused niches can generate six-figure incomes. Educational content never gets old or out of style, and learners are always looking for expert guidance.
