Investing instead of saving means greater risks
In the media
The European Commission wants EU citizens to invest more and save less to help European companies become more competitive. Associate professor Marnix Wallinga spoke to the NOS: ‘The Dutch have a healthy distrust of the capital markets.’
The European Commission has warned that Europe is not investing enough. It says that European companies could make good use of citizens’ savings to help them compete with American and Chinese firms. Investments are needed, for instance, in sectors involved in sustainability, digitalisation and defence. One notable exception in Europe is Sweden. Citizens there have always invested more than they save. Marnix Wallinga says, however, that Sweden’s investment culture cannot simply be copied one-to-one to the Netherlands. He warns of the risks associated with government policies that actively encourage investing.
‘The Dutch have a healthy distrust of the capital markets. In recent years, there have been many scandals where insufficient information was provided about financial products,’ the assistant professor explains. ‘Our caution reflects a longing for stability. We have every reason to be proud of that.’
If the government does decide to push investing on the capital market, Wallinga says first‑time investors will need greater protection. ‘As a society, we have to keep recognising that investing carries real risks. So, targeted awareness campaigns are essential.’
Meer weten?
Watch the full NOS news broadcast (in Dutch)
Listen to the Radio 1 broadcast (in Dutch)