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Rising Interest in Investments: Preparing for 2026

As more individuals seek to secure their financial future, the trend of increasing investment activities has gained momentum. A recent survey conducted by WOZ, targeting men and women aged 20 to 60 currently engaged in any form of investment, sheds light on investment preferences leading towards 2026.

Survey Overview

WOZ carried out its survey titled "Forecast of Popular Investment Destinations in 2026" between December 12 and December 15, 2025. A total of 1,006 respondents participated, all of whom were actively involved in investments at the time of the survey.

Investment Plans and Preferences

The data indicates that approximately 80% of respondents are either planning to increase their investments or are contemplating doing so in the coming years. When asked about their current investments, the majority indicated a preference for mutual funds (64.3%) and stock investments (63.4%). The ease of access to these investment types, supported by the NISA system in Japan, plays a significant role in their popularity.

In contrast, investments in foreign currency deposits (15.3%) and other options like FX trading and cryptocurrencies are also on the rise, reflecting a diverse array of risk tolerance and investment goals.

When further questioned about their plans for 2026, 35.4% affirmed they intend to increase their investments, while 43.4% expressed a desire to invest more but are still considering their options.

Reasons Behind Increasing Investments

Respondents noted several motivations for wanting to diversify their investment portfolios. The most common reasons included:

• - Strengthening diversified investments (49.2%)
• - Increased anxiety about the future (33.5%)
• - Impact of rising prices (29.4%)

This indicates a clear trend towards managing risk and preparing financially for uncertain economic conditions, such as inflation. Individuals are progressively looking to bolster their defenses against economic fluctuations through a more diversified investment strategy, emphasizing stability and growth.

Investment Preferences for 2026

In terms of where investors plan to focus their efforts, stocks, mutual funds, and investments in precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum emerged as popular choices. Respondents expressed the following preferences for investments they wish to start in 2026:

• - Stock investments (46.9%)
• - Mutual funds (40.0%)
• - Precious metals (14.8%)

Financial Commitment Levels

Interestingly, the survey also revealed insights into the financial commitment investors are prepared for when venturing into new investments. Many respondents indicated a desire to start with manageable amounts, particularly in the range of 10,000 to 50,000 yen (14.5%). There was also a significant number willing to invest more substantial amounts, ranging from 1 million to 3 million yen (14.3%) and 100,000 to 200,000 yen (12.1%). This indicates a growing inclination among investors to start cautiously yet progressively.

Criteria for Selecting Investments

When asked about the selection criteria for new investments, the respondents cited the following key factors:

• - Stable returns (36.1%)
• - High growth potential (28.5%)
• - Relative low risk (23.7%)

This reflects a strategic approach to balancing the need for both profitability and safety in their investment choices, pointing toward a broader understanding of the nuances of investment strategy.

Concerns Regarding New Investments

However, potential investors also expressed significant concerns about starting new ventures. The most prominent worries included:

• - Uncertainty regarding risks and losses (36.4%)
• - Lack of adequate knowledge (30.3%)
• - Difficulty in determining the right timing to start (21.7%)

Importance of Reliable Information Sources

To mitigate these concerns, many turned to various information sources to guide their investment decisions. The most cited, offering convenience and accessibility, included:

• - Online media (35.9%)
• - Financial institution materials (34.4%)
• - Educational videos on platforms like YouTube (24.5%)

The prevalent use of diverse channels shows a growing synergy between technology and financial literacy, enabling investors to make more informed decisions.

Underlying Factors of Investment Motivation

Exploring the broader societal context, the survey also uncovered key sources of anxiety regarding future financial stability, including:

• - Rising living costs (59.0%)
• - Insufficient pension or retirement funds (54.0%)
• - Stagnation in income growth (30.9%)

This highlights a tangible feeling of urgency among investors who view financial education and investment as essential tools in navigating economic uncertainty and paving a path towards security and freedom.

Conclusion

The survey illuminates an unmistakable trend: the motivation to invest has expanded significantly, with individuals primarily aiming to secure their financial future against rising costs and uncertain economic conditions. The proactive approach to investment for 2026 emphasizes both a desire for growth and a need for stability, reflecting a balance that many investors are striving for.

For those looking to delve into the financial landscape ahead, WOZmedia stands as a trusted source of information, marrying financial acumen with the latest trends in investment.