The Rise of the Citizen Investor and the Democratization of Finance

Investing for Everyone: How technology is opening the doors of financial markets.

Investing was once a realm reserved for the wealthy and those with specialized knowledge. However, the landscape is drastically changing. The rise of accessible online trading platforms, fractional shares, and robo-advisors has put more power in the hands of everyday people. This transformation is fueling the rise of the "citizen investor."

• Fractional Shares: Buying a single share of a high-priced stock like Amazon or Tesla was once out of reach for many. Fractional shares break down expensive stocks, allowing individuals to invest with smaller amounts.

• Robo-Advisors: These automated investment platforms offer personalized portfolios, often at low fees. They cater to new investors who might lack financial expertise or feel intimidated by traditional advisors.

This trend is democratizing finance, making markets more inclusive. No longer do you need a massive portfolio and expensive brokers to take part in the potential growth of the market. Major investment platforms are reporting record numbers of new users, many of whom are first-time investors. This broader participation can drive a more robust and healthier economy for everyone.