Brits think investing is strictly reserved for the super-rich – with 45 per cent not getting involved themselves

A POLL of 2,000 adults found 38% associate it with city bankers, while 21% think it’s the domain of older adults.

And 47% admit they’re daunted by the prospect of getting started – with four in 10 not having a clue where or how to begin.

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A third (32%) also didn’t start taking any active interest in their pension until they were 36 or older.

Liz Fernando, chief investment officer for Nest Pensions, which commissioned the research, said: “Pensions are a great way to invest your money and watch it grow over time, in the background while you work.

“It’s evident that there’s a lot of work to do to demystify perceptions surrounding who can enter the world of investment – it really can be for everyone.”

The results also found 49% think the general perception of investing being primarily for the wealthy acts as a barrier for other people who would otherwise want to invest.

As almost three quarters (73%) feel these opportunities should be accessible for people from all income levels.

Among the three groups which Brits feel are most underrepresented when it comes to investing are the working classes (46%), young people (34%) and ethnic minorities (29%).

For nearly eight in 10 (78%), the fear of losing money makes the idea of investment off-putting.

While lack of investing knowledge (52%), uncertainty about the economy (51%) and not knowing where to begin (38%) are among the top fears.

But 64% believe more people would be likely to invest – if they could see where exactly their money is going.

A third would describe their investing knowledge as ‘bad’ – while 53% feel clear and transparent information about investment options would help ease their concerns.

Simpler investment platforms or tools would feel most beneficial for 49% of those polled via OnePoll.

And when it comes to pensions, profitability is sought-after for 58%.

While investing in sustainable businesses is vital for 29%.

More than four in 10 (42%) are connected to their pension through an employment plan – while 15% contribute through a private plan.

Liz Fernando for Nest pensions added: “We know your pension pot can be one of the most valuable ways to help secure your future retirement, and it’s right you know where it’s being invested – especially when you’re saving into it for decades”.

“We don’t know how the world of finance will look in years to come, but we do know your future self should be grateful that you are adding to your pot.”

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This post first appeared on thesun.co.uk