eToro latest survey: Financial services stocks and cash are highly favored by US retail investors, inflation remains the biggest threat
According to the latest survey report from eToro, financial services stocks and cash are the most favored investment choices for American retail investors. Technology stocks, energy stocks, and communication stocks are also attracting investors' attention. The report also shows that 76% of American investors hold cash, and 22% of investors plan to increase their investments in technology stocks. In addition, investors aged 18-34 have shown interest in cryptocurrency assets. Inflation is seen as the biggest threat to investment portfolios
According to a new report from the trading and investment platform eToro, financial services stocks and cash are currently popular among American retail investors.
In the latest Retail Investor Behavior (RIB) report released by the company on Wednesday, 54% of investors stated that they hold financial services stocks, followed closely by tech stocks at 49%. Energy stocks (39%) and communication stocks (36%) came next.
Last year, the regional banking crisis triggered by the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank (SIVBQ.US) spread, causing the stock prices of financial stocks such as Charles Schwab (SCHW.US), U.S. Bancorp (USB.US), and PNC Financial Services Group (PNC.US) to fall below pre-crisis levels, attracting the attention of value investors.
Tech Stocks Remain Popular
Following the surge of AI-related stocks led by chipmaker NVIDIA (NVDA.US), tech stocks have clearly become the target for investors. However, the eToro report indicates that some investors may be concerned about missing out on opportunities, with 76% of American investors holding cash, but 22% stating they will increase their investments in tech stocks.
Cryptocurrency assets are popular among investors aged 18-34, with 26% stating they will increase their digital investment portfolios. Some younger investors have also experienced market downturns for the first time, with 63% stating they have become more cautious after losses, while 22% of investors aged 55 and above share the same view.
However, young investors are more likely to buy on dips, with 43% indicating this, compared to 16% of older investors.
Inflation Seen as the Biggest Threat
Despite recent easing of U.S. inflation, 30% of investors stated that inflation remains the biggest threat to their investment portfolios, followed by the economy (21%) and high interest rates (11%).
Bret Kenwell, eToro's U.S. investment analyst, said, "Given that U.S. interest rates are still high, it's not surprising that investors are leaning towards cash assets for stable risk-free returns. The cash holdings of investors put them in a favorable position to take advantage of market opportunities when they arise."