Prime Highlights:
- 19 financial services firms are joining forces to launch the UK Retail Investment Campaign, helping more Britons start investing.
- The campaign aims to improve personal financial wellbeing and support the wider economy.
Key Facts:
- Retail investment in the UK is currently the lowest in the G7, with many adults holding cash savings but not investing.
- The campaign is fully funded by the participating firms, which include banks, investment platforms, and wealth managers.
Background:
19 financial firms are starting the UK Retail Investment Campaign to encourage more people in Britain to invest. It will begin in April 2026 and aims to help people improve their finances and support the economy.
The campaign is paid for by the firms, which include banks, investment platforms, and wealth managers. It receives backing from the Treasury, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS), with the Investment Association acting as secretariat.
Research from the FCA’s Financial Lives survey revealed that 54% of non-advised adults with significant cash savings, but no other investments aside from pensions, had never considered investing. The main barriers cited were fear of losing money (34%) and lack of knowledge or access to support (29%).
The campaign will provide clear, accessible information and practical support to help individuals decide if investing is right for them, while giving them the confidence to take control of their long-term financial plans.
Sasha Wiggins, CEO of Barclays Private Bank and Wealth Management and chair of the campaign, said: “With retail investment in the UK the lowest in the G7, it is vital to build a culture of saving and investing. This campaign is about giving everyone clear information so they can make informed decisions about putting their money to work.”
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said that the UK is a major financial hub and the stock market is performing well. She added that getting more people to invest can help them gain from this growth and boost the economy.
Chris Cummings, CEO of the Investment Association and deputy chair of the campaign, emphasized that the initiative brings together a broad range of financial firms for a multi-year effort to highlight the importance of investing alongside traditional cash savings.
