What the research says
Instead of relying solely on surveys, the researchers turned to social media. They analyzed posts and comments on Reddit, Quora, LinkedIn, and YouTube to get a sense of real people’s thoughts, fears, and behaviors when it comes to investing.
Here’s what stood out:
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Low knowledge = low participation
Many people stay away from the stock market simply because it feels confusing or risky. Jargon, complex rules, and fear of losing money are huge barriers. For some, investing feels like a gamble rather than a smart financial decision. -
High knowledge = more confidence
Those who understand the basics—stocks, bonds, ETFs, and risk versus reward—approach the market differently. They make informed choices, assess opportunities more carefully, and feel empowered to take calculated risks instead of guessing. -
Knowledge protects you
The study also highlighted that financial literacy reduces vulnerability. People with a solid understanding of financial concepts are less likely to fall for scams or make impulsive decisions driven by hype, trends, or emotion.
