The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), together with the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) and market infrastructure institutions, published the Investor Survey 2025, a large-scale household study intended to inform strategies for more inclusive and responsible investing. The survey finds that while 63% of households are aware of at least one securities market product, only 9.5% participate, with limited investor knowledge and strong risk aversion shaping behaviour. Conducted by Kantar across more than 90,000 households in 400 cities and 1,000 villages, the study reports participation of around 32.1 million households, with urban participation (15%) higher than rural (6%) and the highest participation recorded in Delhi (20.7%) and Gujarat (15.4%). Only 36% of investors have high or moderate knowledge of securities markets, and nearly 80% of households prioritise capital preservation over higher returns, including 79% of Gen-Z households. Reported barriers include complexity, lack of knowledge, trust deficits and fear of losses; “intenders” seek simpler digital platforms, easier processes, success stories and role models, and lower entry barriers. Preferred education channels include social media, mobile apps and TV/digital ads, with Gen-Z favouring short-form videos and older cohorts preferring articles, podcasts and workshops, alongside a strong preference for regional-language education. The survey also indicates limited awareness and usage of SEBI’s grievance redressal system, although users report around 90% satisfaction with outcomes, and identifies potential growth with 22% of aware non-investors expressing intent to invest within the next year.
Securities & Exchange Board of India 2025-09-30
Securities and Exchange Board of India publishes Investor Survey 2025 showing wide awareness but low household participation in securities markets
The Securities and Exchange Board of India, with the Association of Mutual Funds in India and market infrastructure institutions, released the Investor Survey 2025, highlighting low market participation despite 63% awareness among households. Covering over 90,000 households, it reveals urban participation at 15% and rural at 6%, with barriers like complexity and lack of knowledge. It notes a preference for capital preservation and identifies potential growth, with 22% of aware non-investors intending to invest within the next year.