Decreasing public interest in eco-friendly investment
A recent survey conducted by Verivox Finanzvergleich GmbH has shed light on the interest and preferences of individuals in sustainable financial products. The study, which involved around 1,000 people in May 2023, reveals significant trends in sustainable investment behaviour, influenced by factors such as age, location, family status, education, and financial knowledge.
The survey results indicate a decrease in interest in sustainable investments for the second year in a row, with only 16% of individuals currently invested in such financial products. However, 64% of individuals expressed interest in investments that meet ecological, social, and ethical minimum standards.
Younger individuals, particularly those under 30 years old, have the greatest interest in ecologically and ethically sound investments, with 81% being generally interested. This trend is reflected in urban areas, where apartment dwellers often show higher engagement in sustainable consumption patterns.
Interestingly, the survey results show a divide between East Germans (44%) and West Germans (36%) in terms of interest in sustainable investments. Furthermore, households without children demonstrate almost twice the interest (40%) compared to families with children.
Education and financial knowledge also play a crucial role in sustainable investment interest. Higher education levels and greater financial literacy correlate with increased preference for sustainable investing, as these individuals often have a better understanding of the benefits and risks associated with socially responsible investments (SRI).
Personal attitudes towards organic products and sustainability drive sustainable purchasing and investment decisions. Preferences for environmental and social responsibility lead to stronger engagement in sustainable investments. Economic considerations, such as housing affordability and employment convenience, tend to be secondary factors in SRI interest.
A careful approach to the Earth's resources is often mentioned, with 29% of respondents considering it important. Investments in renewable energy are also often cited, with 27% of respondents considering it a key factor. Fair labor and animal protection are particularly important criteria, with 37% valuing the avoidance of exploitative working conditions and animal testing each.
Notably, only half of those over 70 years old are interested in ESG investments, and 34% of respondents would not sacrifice returns for sustainable investments. However, more than half (55%) of those interested in sustainable investments would sacrifice returns if the investments meet important sustainability standards.
The exclusion of industries like gambling (22%) and arms (20%) is also considered important by some respondents. The survey findings suggest that other topics have taken precedence over sustainability in current debates.
In conclusion, younger, urban-dwelling individuals with higher education and those with young children show a greater propensity to engage in sustainable investments. These demographics combine environmental awareness, financial literacy, and family-centered motivations to pursue investments aligned with sustainability goals. The study by comparison portal Verivox reveals social divides in finance, with younger individuals prioritizing sustainability more than seniors, East Germans, and those without children.
- Despite a decline in current sustainable investment, a striking 64% of individuals express interest in investments that adhere to ecological, social, and ethical standards.
- Intriguingly, sustainable living doesn't seem to be a priority for homemakers, as households without children show almost double the interest (40%) compared to families with children in sustainable investments.
- Personnel preferences regarding sustainable living also influence their financial decisions; those who prefer organic products and prioritize the environment tend to invest in socially responsible investments (SRI).
