Key facts
- NatWest chair Rick Haythornthwaite warned of an "inter-generational crisis" if UK investment is not boosted.
- A NatWest Group report found Gen Z to be the most engaged generation with investing (73% either investing or open to it).
- Older Britons (over 55) are nearly three times more likely than those under 25 to feel excluded from investing.
- Gen X reports the lowest overall confidence in investing, despite strong earning potential.
- Many in their 30s and 40s feel overwhelmed by investing and believe substantial savings are required.
- NatWest has launched an initiative with consumer finance expert Angellica Bell to boost investor confidence.
NatWest Group chair Rick Haythornthwaite has warned that the UK risks an "inter-generational crisis" if it does not significantly boost investment. His comments accompany a new report from the bank that highlights a substantial "investment identity gap" across different age groups in Britain.
The research indicates that while younger generations, particularly Gen Z, are increasingly enthusiastic about investing, older cohorts often feel excluded. Individuals over 55 are nearly three times more likely than those under 25 to believe that investing is not for people like them. Gen X, a group in their mid-40s to late 50s, faces psychological hurdles despite strong earning potential, reporting the lowest overall confidence in investing.
Many individuals aged 35-44 find investing overwhelming, with over a quarter stating they would be more at ease starting a new job than making their first investment. Common misconceptions include the need for substantial savings, with 71% believing certain life milestones must be met first, and setting a high average salary threshold of £58,678. The average age for a first investment in the UK is 34, though many regret not starting earlier.
In response to these findings, NatWest has launched a new initiative in partnership with consumer finance expert Angellica Bell. The campaign aims to address common myths surrounding investing and provide accessible guidance to empower potential first-time investors. This effort aligns with broader national programs like the government-supported “Invest for the Future” program.