Bundesverband deutscher Banken: Umfrage: Viele offen für Aktien - Vorsorge wird aufgeschoben

A recent survey conducted by the Bundesverband deutscher Banken reveals that many Germans are open to investing in stocks, although the stereotype of risk-averse investors in the country persists. The nationwide poll, which questioned nearly 2,200 individuals in the summer, found that 65 percent of respondents viewed stocks and other securities as "good" or "very good" options for private retirement savings.

Younger participants aged 16 to 24 were particularly enthusiastic, with 77 percent expressing a positive view. The bank association noted that younger individuals demonstrate a significant openness to stocks and funds, showing the highest risk tolerance among investors.

Among the most common investment types, securities came in second place after savings accounts, with younger people even favoring securities as their top choice. However, life insurance and pension plans remain popular among middle-aged individuals. Despite the growing number of stock investors in Germany, with 14.1 million people owning stocks, funds, or ETFs in 2025 – a rise of nearly two million compared to the previous year, concerns about investing persist.

The main reasons for hesitation include lack of funds (29 percent), fear of losses (21 percent), and insufficient knowledge (18 percent). Even younger generations are not immune to these concerns, with safety being the most frequently cited motivation for saving money, including among younger people.

The survey also dispels the notion that young people are uninterested in economics and finance. In fact, 4 out of 10 respondents expressed strong or very strong interest in these topics, with a further third showing some level of interest. There is little difference in financial knowledge between generations, with about half of the respondents (52 percent) feeling fairly well-informed about money matters.

Stock market knowledge was particularly high among young adults and young adults (45 percent). However, young people tend to engage with their finances irregularly, with only older individuals (over 40) engaging in regular financial planning. Only 24 percent of 16 to 24-year-olds actively plan their finances, compared to 45 percent of seniors.

The bank association warns that "eventually, it's too late" and emphasizes that neglecting retirement planning only results in "losing valuable time and money." The planned retirement savings account aims to attract more people to the capital market and promote long-term wealth creation.