Market Volatility and GameStop Surge Impacting Young Investors

The GameStop stock surge earlier this year had a significant impact on how people view investing. It served as a platform for some enthusiastic investors to challenge the status quo. More importantly, it highlighted the unpredictable nature of the market, especially for newer and younger investors. The surge, triggered by a collective effort against hedge funds, shed light on the market’s unreliability which might deter potential investors.

A recent survey by Junior Achievement USA and RSM, a tax and accounting firm, revealed that many young investors, particularly teenagers, are hesitant to engage in the stock market. Only half of the surveyed teens view the market positively. Around 39% see it as a way to make quick money, 20% consider it too risky, and 40% value it as a long-term investment opportunity. Interestingly, 37% of teens indicated they would not invest even if given free money.

After the meme stock frenzy, a survey found that only half of teens believe the stock market benefits Americans. What does this reveal about teens’ perception of investing? Listen to today’s show discussion.https://t.co/D9beiLlQBj

— The Financial Exchange (@TFEShow) September 7, 2021

Ed Grocholski, Senior Vice President of Junior Achievement USA, remarked, “Some teens have been deterred by this behavior.”

Leona Edwards, a certified financial planner at Mariner Wealth Advisors, acknowledged the teens’ reluctance to invest, stating, “It is understandable why they are cautious about the stock market, but it might impact their future savings significantly.”

There is a growing concern among analysts that this reluctance could hinder teens from saving adequately for retirement. “Starting to invest early is crucial for retirement planning,” Grocholski emphasized, “but it seems that many teens might miss out on this opportunity.”