Author: Dr. Mukta Goyal
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Abstract: This study aims to analyze and synthesize current research on financial literacy and its impact on investment decision-making. It extends the literature on personal finance by incorporating recent studies on financial literacy, the interplay between financial literacy and financial management behavior, and the concept of financial inclusion. Reviewing existing literature underscores the pervasive lack of fundamental knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for optimal personal finance decision-making, even in economically advanced nations. Consequently, since the mid-20th century, efforts to enhance financial literacy and promote personal finance education have gained prominence in industrialized and high-income countries.
While comprehensive studies are limited, recent scholarly and governmental attention to developing nations underscores the increasing global relevance of financial literacy and prudent financial behaviors for national socioeconomic well-being. Studies from economically challenged and emerging nations have revealed low levels of financial literacy, with correlations found between low literacy scores and demographics such as gender, age, employment status, education level, income, and rural residency. However, some demographic factors were found to be less influential. This research emphasizes the importance of expanding financial literacy initiatives across diverse population groups and addressing factors that influence financial literacy levels.
Keywords: Financial literacy, Investment decision-making, Personal finance, financial management behavior, financial inclusion, Socioeconomic health, Demographics, Developing nations, Education, Income, Rural residency.