Czech citizens have long exhibited a cautious and conservative approach to savings and investments, with a substantial portion of their financial assets predominantly stashed in bank accounts or even held in physical cash at home. Their investment preferences tend to lean towards traditional and safer options like building savings, pension savings, and mutual funds. This inclination towards conservative savings practices over more diversified investment strategies has garnered attention and sparked discussions within the financial sector.

Common and savings accounts remain the go-to choices for domestic savers, emphasizing a focus on savings rather than embracing the broader concept of investment. Martin Řezáč, Chairman of the Association for the Capital Market of the Czech Republic, advocates for a paradigm shift towards a more diverse investment portfolio. He believes there’s untapped potential for mutual funds, highlighting their suitability as investment vehicles due to factors such as their investment horizon, flexibility, and regulatory protection.

Real estate is another sector that draws significant interest from Czech investors, who perceive it as a safe and reliable investment option due to an extended period of previous price growth. Homeownership also plays a pivotal role in their investment preferences.

However, Řezáč underscores the importance of investing in children’s education, asserting that such investments contribute significantly to a better future. He also anticipates a growing interest in stock market investments.

Compared to Western European countries, Czech households allocate a larger portion of their financial assets to cash or low-interest accounts, while products designed for long-term savings, such as pension insurance, pension savings, or life insurance, receive less attention.

Martin Pohl from Generali Investments CEE points out this imbalance in asset allocation, stressing the need for a more significant embrace of offensive assets, particularly investments in stocks and investment funds. He explains that Western Europeans tend to be more proactive and daring when managing their finances, often opting for aggressive financial products for investment purposes.

According to Generali Investments CEE, Czechs hold almost two-thirds of their financial assets in cash and bank accounts, a notably higher proportion than the 42 percent held by their German counterparts. This conservative savings approach underscores the necessity for enhanced financial education and a broader awareness of diversified investment opportunities within the Czech population. Encouraging a shift towards more diverse and growth-oriented investment strategies could potentially contribute to the long-term financial well-being of Czech citizens.

Article by Prague Forum