The Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) has published the latest edition of its Consumer Investments Monitor.
The report shows that, in 2021, the number of investing households increased by 12% to 1.9 million. During the past year, the need for higher returns was the primary reason to start investing. The majority have chosen to make investments without taking advice.
For 66% of beginning investors, non-advised investing is the most preferred investment method. This way of investing therefore emerges once again as the most popular channel among beginners. Besides non-advised investing, it is also possible to invest using asset management services or with the help of an investment adviser.
Cryptos are the most frequently traded instruments using an app. Six out of ten (57%) non advised investors who hold cryptos in addition to their investments have traded these instruments using an app.
This may be because young non advised investors effect transactions with an app more frequently than older investors (18-34 years: 57%; 35-44 years 34%; 45-54 years 37%; 55 years or over: 18%) and additionally also more often hold cryptos (18-34 years: 37%; 35-44 years 28%; 45-54 years 17%; 55 years or over: 6%).
Index funds are also relatively frequently traded using an app, as 42% of the non advised investors investing in these funds have effected transactions using an app.
The regulator notes that a third of investors check the value of their investments at least once a day. In fact, 50% of risk-seeking investors check the value of their portfolio every day, compared to 26% of investors who describe themselves as cautious. Moreover, beginning investors monitor the value of their investments more often than experienced investors. Websites and apps have increased the ease of use of investment services.
The percentage of investors who periodically deposit money in their investment account has increased from 29% in 2020 to 38% in 2021. By spreading out the purchases over time, investors can reduce the chance of buying just when the market peaks. However, the frequency of deposits has decreased: in 2019, 91% of investors were making deposits monthly, while that figure is only 78% this year.
Of the non-advised investors, 74% said they were not interested in professional assistance or support in relation to investing. Another 14% do not know whether they are interested, and 12% would like some assistance. The people who want assistance are mainly looking for an opportunity to ask questions and an explanation of how to build a portfolio. They are also open to suggestions for investments that are suitable for their circumstances.