Barriers to stock market participation

The project, "Barriers to Stock Market Participation," seeks to explore and address the underlying causes of low investment participation in the Czech Republic, where less than 35% of the population engages in regular investing. The research will delve into historical, behavioural, and educational factors that have contributed to the prevailing investment biases. The study aims to provide actionable insights into improving financial decision-making and promoting stock market participation.

Through a three-stage research methodology, the project will identify socio-demographic and economic attributes linked to financial behaviour, test investment-promoting nudges tailored to specific population groups, and evaluate their long-term effectiveness via portfolio performance on an investment platform. This innovative approach combines behavioural finance, policy recommendations, and practical interventions to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

The expected outcomes include valuable contributions to academic literature, development of targeted educational initiatives, and actionable strategies for policymakers and financial institutions. The research findings will also hold relevance for other emerging economies with similar socio-economic legacies, making this study a potential catalyst for broader economic development.