Talking about finances is a taboo for many UK adults, although younger generations may be pushing for change.
Research by the Investment Association* has found that Brits are more likely to discuss politics and current affairs (50%) at the dinner table than finances (29%).
However, Gen Z (42%) and Millennials (36%) are more inclined to broach the topic of money than Gen X (23%) and Baby Boomers (21%).
Despite their willingness to have financial conversations, 31% of Gen Z and 28% of Millennials still feel uncertain about managing their money. Investing is even more of a taboo, with 52% of all survey respondents saying they wouldn’t discuss this topic with anyone.
Miranda Seath, Director of Market Insight at the Investment Association, said: “Whilst it’s really encouraging to see that younger people are leading the charge on money conversations, both discussing financial affairs with friends and family and looking to social media for information, a lack of confidence persists when it comes to investing and managing finances.
“With a significant intergenerational wealth transfer in motion, it has never been more important to help people make good financial decisions.
“Across different generations, better financial education in schools was recognised as key to getting more people investing in the UK. The investment management industry has pledged to increase the number of people holding an investment product from just over 20% of the UK population to 75% over the next decade – matching the number who hold a cash savings account today.
“We need to create a culture of inclusive investment, where talking about money isn’t taboo and where young people can find structured guidance and targeted support to help them make better decisions. Smart financial decisions to invest for your future can make a significant different to peoples’ lives by helping them fund education, buy a house and live a comfortable life in retirement.”
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