Investopedia Survey Says Millennials Fear the Stock Market – Here’s What They Can Do Instead

According to Investopedia, nearly 40% of millennials earning over £100,000 still avoid the stock market. Why? The 2008 crash left a lasting scar, and traditional investing feels like a gamble and Crypto currency seems too volatile.

Despite being in a good financial position, many millennials are sticking to savings accounts, avoiding the stock market, or simply sitting on cash. But as we know, saving money in a bank isn’t the best way to build long-term wealth.

Let’s take a look at some alternative assets that you can invest in without riding Wall Street’s rollercoaster.

Why Millennials Are Hesitant to Invest

If you’re one of those millennials who feels hesitant about investing, you’re not alone. It’s not just about the money, it’s the fear of losing it. Many of us grew up watching the 2008 financial crash and its aftermath. Some of us even grew up in a different social and financial class then where we are right now. It left a big impact on how we view risk. The idea of losing hard-earned cash in a market crash is nerve-wracking, especially when we’ve worked so hard to get to where we are.

Plus, let’s face it: the world of investing can seem like a whole other language. There’s so much jargon, so many numbers and honestly, it’s tough to know where to start. So, a lot of millennials opt to keep their money in safer, more familiar places, like traditional savings accounts. The problem is, these don’t really help us build long-term wealth. Our money just sits there, growing (or not) at a painfully slow rate.

While traditional investing feels like a maze to many, there are a number of options out there that are more simple, innovative, stable and easier to understand. Let’s dive into some alternatives that could make investing a lot less stressful and even a little exciting.

1. Real Estate: Tangible, Familiar, and Less Volatile

If you’re looking for something more tangible, real estate is a popular alternative. It’s something we all understand to a degree and property values tend to go up over time. Most millennials turn to property as a way to grow wealth; either through buying homes or investing in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs).

The benefit of real estate is that it’s real. You can see it, touch it and it’s usually a safe bet in the long term. But here’s the catch: real estate requires a big upfront investment. It’s not always easy to get started and managing property can be challenging for some. If you’re not looking to buy a home or get into the complexities of property management, real estate might not be the most accessible option.

2. Cryptocurrencies: High-Risk, High Reward, But Still Tempting

Let’s talk about cryptocurrency for a second. Cryptos like Bitcoin and Ethereum have caught the attention of millennials looking for fast and big returns. The appeal is obvious: it’s a new and exciting market with the potential for high rewards. The idea of investing in something disruptive like cryptocurrency can be very attractive.

But here’s the thing: crypto is volatile. It’s like a rollercoaster ride where the highs are high, but the lows can feel like freefall. Many millennials are drawn to the idea of breaking away from traditional financial systems, but the risk is huge. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement, but it’s not for the faint-hearted. If you’re someone who feels anxious about losing money, the rollercoaster ride of crypto might not be the best fit.

3. Precious Metals and Commodities: Safe Havens in Times of Uncertainty

If you’re looking for something a bit more stable, precious metals like gold and silver might be worth considering. These assets have stood the test of time as a hedge against inflation and market instability. While they may not provide quick returns, they tend to hold their value well, especially when times are tough.

The appeal of precious metals is their reliability. Unlike stocks or cryptocurrencies, they don’t come with extreme volatility. But there’s a downside: it’s a slow and steady path. If you’re looking to grow your money quickly, precious metals might feel like they’re dragging their feet. Alternatively, you can invest in gold funds that are more stable than traditional mutual funds. These funds are dependent on gold prices which are constantly rising. But if you’re seeking something stable and tangible, they can be a good option to consider.

4. Whisky Cask Investment: A Slow-Moving, Tangible Asset for Millennials

Now, here’s something a bit different: whisky cask investment. It might sound unusual at first, but whisky casks have become an increasingly popular alternative investment option. The value of whisky casks appreciates as the whisky matures, which means it’s a relatively slow-moving but stable asset.

For millennials who want something tangible, whisky casks offer a chance to invest in something real, something you can literally see and touch. Unlike the wild swings of the stock market, whisky casks increase in value over time, providing a more predictable investment route.

One of the best things about whisky cask investment is that it offers transparency and flexibility. For investors who want more control and clarity than the stock market offers, whisky cask trading is gaining quiet appeal. Platforms like London Cask Traders not only provide access to the market, but also walk investors through storage, insurance, and how to plan a clean & profitable exit, making it easier to invest with confidence.

Conclusion

If you’re a millennial who’s been hesitant to dive into the world of investing, you’re definitely not alone. The fear of loss, market volatility, and the overwhelming complexity of financial products can make it all seem like a daunting task. But the good news is, there are plenty of investment options out there that don’t require you to ride the rollercoaster of the stock market.

Real estate, precious metals, and whisky cask trading are just a few examples of alternatives that provide stability and long-term growth, without the emotional rollercoaster. If you are looking for more insight on how to choose the right platform for investment, check out Business Media Group for more such articles.