Why Czechs (Don’t) Invest: Analysis of Middle-Income Households

In comparison with other EU countries, Czech households remain conservative in their investment behavior, with much of their capital held in current or savings accounts. This thesis aims to explore the factors that influence the investment decisions of Czech middle-income households, examine their motivations, and identify the barriers that prevent them from investing. The data for this thesis were collected through a questionnaire and analyzed using standard statistical methods. The most prominent motivations include future precaution and long-term capital appreciation, while the main barriers are a lack of capital and fear of financial loss. Among the findings, a significant relationship emerged between investment activity and respondents’ social environments. The thesis also discusses the role of financial advisors and influencers, who have the potential to reduce negative emotions associated with investing. Financial influencers may also help raise awareness about the benefits of investing.