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How Investors of Color are Reshaping the Economic Horizon

Writer's picture: William BlantonWilliam Blanton

Updated: Feb 5, 2024

Investors of Color Enter Markets Swiftly, Often Younger than White Peers - Report Reveals


In a groundbreaking report, the FINRA Investor Education Foundation (FINRA Foundation) has unveiled a seismic shift in the realm of finance, signaling the entry of investors of color into the market at an unprecedented pace. Termed "Investors of Color," the report dissects the data gleaned from the National Financial Capability Study and offers a riveting glimpse into the attitudes and behaviors of Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, and Asian American/Pacific Islander investors.


FINRA head office

The most striking revelation? Investors of color are not merely making an entrance; they're storming in at a faster pace than their white counterparts. Since 2015, a surge of new investors has been noted, with Black/African American respondents leading the charge at a notable nine percentage points, closely followed by Asian American/Pacific Islander respondents at seven percentage points and Hispanic/Latino respondents at six percentage points.


At the forefront of this financial revolution are young investors of color, with almost half falling below the age of 35. This demographic shift underscores a generational recalibration in the dynamics of investment participation.


average age of investors

Unlike their white counterparts, investors of color are not solely driven by long-term profit motives. Their motivations extend to short-term gains, a desire for investment knowledge, the allure of entertainment and excitement, and the influence of their peers, creating a multi-dimensional approach to investment decisions. The study delves into the information channels preferred by investors of color, revealing a departure from traditional sources. Friends, family, colleagues, mobile trading apps, online videos, and social media emerge as influential factors shaping their investment strategies.


reasons for investing

Investors of color, particularly Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino investors, showcase a bolder appetite for risk, engaging more fervently in ventures such as meme stocks, cryptocurrencies, and options compared to their white and Asian American/Pacific Islander counterparts. Black/African American investors, in particular, report higher risk tolerance levels.



Focus groups conducted as part of the study capture the nuanced perspectives of young investors of color. A participant aptly describes the first-generation experience, emphasizing the learning curve faced by these investors compared to families with a more extended history of financial knowledge.


As investors of color emerge as a formidable force, the financial industry faces a pivotal moment. Adapting to the preferences and needs of this dynamic demographic becomes imperative for financial education providers. The report acknowledges the historical barriers faced by investors of color in wealth-building through investing, highlighting the urgency of creating more accessible markets.


The rise of investors of color is not merely a trend but a transformative force reshaping the financial landscape. As Belite Capital continues its unwavering commitment to diversity and bespoke financial services, one can't help but speculate on the future. Will we witness a broader representation of people of color on the finance side of the industry? The surge of interest from the younger generation in the world of investments paints an optimistic picture, heralding a future where the finance industry is as diverse as the investors it serves.


For more information about FINRA Foundation research and education initiatives, visit finrafoundation.org.

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