The Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets has published new research showing that many Dutch households are holding more cash than needed for precautionary savings without investing it, even though some may face a retirement income shortfall later. In 2024, about one in three Dutch households did not invest despite having liquid assets above the Nibud reference buffer. For about one in 10 households, or more than 800,000, this means they are not investing, have sufficient financial room to do so and may still lack enough pension income from the first and second pillars to maintain their current living standard in retirement. The AFM says it will work to lower barriers for consumers who want to start investing while maintaining investor protection. A large share of these non-investing households are retirees with a limited investment horizon, but the non-retired group also holds significant assets that could potentially be used to earn higher returns. For half of the 800,000 households identified, at least EUR 30,000 is available above the Nibud buffer for investment. The main reasons given for not investing are lack of knowledge, perceptions that investing is too risky and personal preference, with some respondents also saying they do not have enough money to begin even when their liquid assets exceed the reference buffer. The AFM adds that households can invest directly, with advice or through discretionary management, and can also improve returns through third-pillar retirement products or additional second-pillar contributions via an employer. It says it is making proposals at national and European level to reduce frictions and simplify processes for first-time investors.
Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets 2026-05-01
Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets finds 800000 households could invest unused savings and seeks to lower barriers for new investors
The Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets has published research showing that around one in three Dutch households with liquid assets above the Nibud reference buffer did not invest in 2024, with more than 800,000 households having room to invest yet still potentially facing a retirement income shortfall. Many of these households, including retirees and non-retired individuals, hold at least EUR 30,000 above the buffer but cite lack of knowledge, perceived risk and personal preference as reasons not to invest. The authority will work to lower barriers for first-time investors, including through proposals at national and European level, while maintaining investor protection.