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Personal finance Score 15 Neutral-positive

Survey Reveals 25% of Americans Want to Invest But Feel Unprepared — Experts Recommend One First Step

Mar 17, 2026 15:00 UTC
AAPL, CL=F, ^VIX
Long term

A new survey finds that a quarter of Americans express interest in investing but lack confidence in how to begin. Financial professionals advise beginners to start with a simple, low-risk action to build foundational knowledge and reduce anxiety.

  • 25% of Americans want to invest but do not know how
  • Experts recommend opening a brokerage account as the first step
  • The CBOE Volatility Index (^VIX) is referenced as a market sentiment indicator
  • Crude oil (CL=F) and Apple (AAPL) are named as key market assets
  • Emphasis on confidence-building over immediate market entry
  • No specific financial figures or growth rates are provided

A growing number of Americans are eager to participate in financial markets but remain hesitant due to uncertainty. According to recent findings, 25% of U.S. adults say they want to invest but do not know where to start. This sentiment highlights a significant gap in financial literacy among retail investors, particularly those new to the market. Experts emphasize that the first step is often the most critical. Financial advisors recommend that nervous beginners begin by opening a brokerage account with a trusted provider, even if only to deposit a modest amount. This initial action helps demystify the process, allowing individuals to explore investment options with minimal risk. While the article does not cite specific market data, it notes that volatility indicators such as the CBOE Volatility Index (^VIX) and energy prices like crude oil (CL=F) remain relevant to broader market conditions. Meanwhile, stocks like Apple (AAPL) continue to serve as benchmarks for tech-sector performance and investor sentiment. The focus on education and psychological readiness underscores a shift in how financial professionals approach new investors. Rather than pushing for immediate market entry, advisors prioritize confidence-building and long-term financial planning. This approach could influence future retail participation trends, especially as younger generations increasingly seek financial independence.

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