More than half (53 per cent) of retail investors expressed optimism about their investments over the next 12 months, up from 42 per cent in May. The findings reflect a promising shift in retail sentiment, with 40 per cent planning to increase their investment levels, and only 8 per cent expecting a decrease.
Younger investors appear to be leading the trend. A striking 56 per cent of those aged 30–39, and 52 per cent of 18–29-year-olds, intend to invest more in the year ahead. These groups also show more diversified portfolios, with 28 per cent of 18–29-year-olds investing in cryptocurrencies compared to just 8 per cent of those aged 55-64. Additionally, over a third of younger investors check their portfolios multiple times a week, signalling high engagement.
The research further highlighted strong interest in domestic investment opportunities. Over half (51 per cent) of respondents stated they would use a UK Growth ISA if introduced—a figure that jumps to 76 per cent among 18–29-year-olds. The UK growth ISA is one of the BCC’s key policy recommendations to strengthen domestic markets.
“Retail investors alone will not resolve the structural challenges facing UK public equity markets and the wider economy. But they need to be part of the answer. Our research shows individual investors are increasingly optimistic, with many planning to increase their investments over the next 12 months. It’s crucial that the government taps into this growing investor appetite,” said David Bharier, head of research at the BCC.
Bharier emphasised the need for clear incentives to redirect investor attention from overseas markets to UK equities, suggesting that a new generation of investors is ready to back homegrown opportunities—if the ecosystem is made more supportive and accessible.
“With the FTSE 100 recently reaching a record-high, our survey results will be encouraging for the government as they try to get more people to invest in the stock market,” said Tyron Surmon, head of research at Find Out Now. “Our survey found a significant boost in optimism among retail investors compared to earlier this year, and a majority of them saying they would be willing to get a ‘UK Growth ISA’ – they just need the government to take the first step.”
The poll surveyed over 2,500 users of investment platforms, reflecting a broad cross-section of the UK’s retail investment community.
ALCHEMPro News Desk (SG)
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