Investing savings of $10,000

Someone wrote to ask for my advice. He has savings of $10,000 and wish to have a better return compared to bank interest. He wanted to pick some stocks to buy and sell when there is a profit. I advised him that it is not suitable to trade in stocks, as the transaction cost and spread will eat away the gain from the stock. There is the risk of capital loss that he must also consider.

I hesitate to suggest that he invest in ETF, as the stock market is rather high and the economy is has not recovered. Do you have any suggestions?