Nearly Half of UK Investors Are Under 30, with Gen Z Favouring Crypto and Millennials Prioritising Ethical Investments

A recent study by Tickmill, a leading online trading broker, revealed that 43% of UK investors are under 30, highlighting a generational shift in investment behaviour.

The typical UK investor is between 20 and 30, holds a university degree, is in full-time employment, and engages with investment-related content at least once a week, primarily through financial articles and expert opinions online.

London Leads, But Investment Culture Spreads Nationwide

According to Tickmill, Investment activity is most concentrated in London, where 72% of investors are based, followed by North East England and Northern Ireland. This

Among asset classes, stocks remain the most popular, with 65% of respondents holding equities. Cryptocurrencies follow closely at 52%, while bonds (23%), forex (21%), and real estate (13%) also feature in UK investors' portfolios.

Why Are Britons Investing?

The study highlights three key motivations driving investment in the UK:

• Long-term financial freedom (57%)

• Saving for retirement (48%)

• Protecting capital against inflation (28%)

Additionally, one in four investors sees investing as a way to generate a second income.

Generational Trends: Crypto for Gen Z, ESG for Millennials

The report reveals distinct generational investment patterns. Gen Z is the most active investor group, with 70% considering themselves active investors. Half of Zoomers (50%) invest in cryptocurrencies, though they also show interest in individual company stocks (26%).

Millennials, by contrast, place greater emphasis on ethical investing. 14% of Generation Y assets in their portfolios include ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), reflecting a growing commitment to sustainability.

This study underscores the evolving landscape of UK investing, where younger generations are shaping the future of finance with diverse priorities—from digital assets to sustainability-focused investments.

The Role of Technology in Shaping Young Investors

With nearly half of UK investors under 30, technology has played a crucial role in transforming how young people access financial markets. The rise of mobile trading apps, commission-free investing platforms, and robo-advisors has significantly lowered the barriers to entry. Investors can now buy and sell stocks, crypto, and other assets instantly from their smartphones, making investing more accessible than ever before.

Social media has also become a powerful tool for financial education. Many young investors turn to online communities like YouTube and TikTok to learn about market trends, investment strategies, and risk management. The influence of financial influencers and discussion forums has contributed to a growing interest in alternative investments and innovative financial products.

The Rise of Alternative Investments

Beyond traditional stocks and bonds, younger investors are increasingly interested in alternative asset classes. Cryptocurrencies, NFTs (non-fungible tokens), and decentralised finance (DeFi) platforms have gained traction among Gen Z investors who seek high-growth opportunities in the digital economy.

Additionally, fractional investing makes it easier for younger individuals to invest in high-value assets such as real estate, art, and even rare collectables without needing large amounts of capital upfront. As financial technology evolves, we can expect even greater diversification in investment portfolios.

The Future of UK Investing

Sustainability and ethical investing are set to gain momentum as younger generations prioritise companies with strong ESG credentials. Businesses focusing on social responsibility, environmental impact, and transparent governance will likely attract more investors looking to align their portfolios with their values.

However, financial literacy remains essential with increasing participation in the financial markets. Understanding market volatility, risk management, and long-term investing principles will be crucial for young investors seeking sustainable wealth.

Challenges Faced by Young Investors

Despite the growing enthusiasm for investing, young investors face unique challenges. Market volatility, economic uncertainty, and rising living costs can make it difficult to maintain long-term investment strategies. Additionally, misinformation on social media and speculative trends can lead to impulsive decision-making, resulting in financial losses.

Financial education is key to navigating these challenges. Learning how to diversify portfolios, assess risks, and make informed investment decisions can help young investors maximise their returns while minimising potential losses.

The Importance of Long-Term Investment Strategies

While short-term trading and speculative investments are popular among young investors, building long-term wealth requires patience and strategic planning. Diversifying portfolios, taking advantage of compound interest, and staying committed to financial goals can yield better results over time.

Additionally, seeking professional financial advice or using reliable investment platforms can help investors make well-informed decisions. Maintaining a balanced and disciplined approach will be crucial for long-term success as the investment landscape continues to evolve.

This study underscores the evolving landscape of UK investing, where younger generations are shaping the future of finance with diverse priorities. This includes everything from digital assets to sustainability-focused investments. As their influence grows, so will the demand for innovative investment products and strategies tailored to their financial goals and values.