DZ Bank Study Reveals Missed Wealth Opportunities for German Savers

German households could have significantly increased their wealth by investing more in stocks, according to a new DZ Bank analysis.

German savers traditionally prefer low-yield accounts, missing out on potential gains from stock investments.
DZ Bank's study shows that from 2011 to mid-2024, German private wealth could have grown by 715 billion euros more with greater stock investment.
Currently, about 23% of private wealth is held in cash or low-interest accounts, while only 9% is in stocks.
Despite market fluctuations, long-term stock investments could have resulted in higher returns, even during crises like COVID-19 and the Ukraine conflict.
The study suggests starting early with diversified stock investments, but acknowledges this approach may not suit all households, particularly those older or with lower incomes.