UK Survey Finds 44 Percent of Adults Confident in Investing Decisions

Fewer than half of British adults consider themselves confident investors, according to a survey conducted for Aviva. The poll of 2,000 people found that 44 percent described themselves as assured in their investment decisions. Men reported higher confidence than women. Fifty-seven percent of men said they felt assured, compared with 31 percent of women.

Sixty-one percent of respondents said they believe some individuals are born investors rather than developing the skill over time. Nearly one-third of those who invest said they entered the market later in life due to personal interest. Forty-two percent of investors said they would change past decisions if given the chance, and 23 percent reported choices they now regret.

Only 21 percent said family members encouraged them to consider investing when young.

Two-thirds of respondents expressed interest in changing their attitude toward investing and building confidence. The figure reached 87 percent among people aged 18 to 24 and 44 percent among those aged 55 and over. Alistair McQueen, head of savings and retirement at Aviva, said confidence is learned over time and that many people only feel comfortable after trying investing and realizing it involves steady habits rather than bold moves.

Censuswide conducted the survey across the UK in April. Aviva advised building an emergency fund first, keeping investments diversified, selecting a medium- to long-term timeframe, and checking the source of any advice.