Re “Dax at record high on hopes for tariff deals and Berlin’s spending plan” (Report, FT Weekend, May 10), recent market turbulence, understandably, may leave some investors questioning whether investing is really for them. But it’s vital we don’t let short-term market dips derail the steady progress we’ve made in fostering a culture of long-term investing.
Much like in Denmark, where similar debates are raging, we must resist the temptation in wider Europe and in the UK to treat investing as something only for the wealthy or “professionals”. With the right tools, education and guidance, investing is and should remain accessible to everyone.
Yes, markets can fall. But they also recover. History shows that those who stay the course tend to benefit. The S&P 500, for example, has returned over 90 per cent in the last five years, despite multiple crises. Trying to time the market is often more damaging than doing nothing at all. Rather than scare campaigns or form-fuelled panic, we should equip investors with better financial education.
This way, people can make informed decisions that reflect their goals and risk appetite, not the latest hype.
Now more than ever we need to get curious people invested in the world to support innovation, growth and economic resilience. Let’s champion investment literacy, not retreat from it.
Kim Fournais
Founder and Chief Executive, Saxo Bank
Hellerup, Denmark
