So how much is too much?

Hmm, let us being with a simple rule call, NO BORROWING FROM FRIENDS! OR PARENTS!

I always have friends calling me up for a chat and asking me LOAN for investments...
nv ever do that!

it spoils ur reputation and tat is critical if u wan a successful biz

Funds for trading should be money that you have, either from savings or passive income over a good year of return, and you decided to trade high risk with it.
It is never borrowed or loaned.

Collective funds is also a way out, but it is hardly feasible in the NO TRUST market in the world now. No one can confirm that no one will take your money and leave. Hence collective funds is both dangerous and difficult to recruit people. BUT that is of course you have a good reputation and good relationship with many people.

The actual sum of how much you should invest really depends on what is your risk tolerance. Always be prepared to lose every single cent that is in the invested portfolio and make sure if that happens, you wont die!

You should at least pack around 4-6months of living expenses and no trading or investing with those money. They are there to keep you alive if you suffer MAX DownDraw in your trade and dun bare to pull out.

Even if you choose to trade a low risk option, the broker you trade with still have the risk of collasping on you and you wont get a dime back!
why?
because when a broker, ie like FXCM falls and close shop on you face. The governing regulator will make FXCM pay back the government first. Then ShareHolders, then small stock holders, and not much will be left for account holder.... who had signed to hold the broker no responsibility.

hmm, so if you were thinking of trading 5000USD, and risk of 5%. You be prepare to lose 100% which is 5000USD and not just 5%.

think about this.