Abstract:

Purpose- Considering the diversity of investment instruments and the complexity of financial markets, making the right investment decisions is an important issue for market participants. In addition, rational and irrational factors have an impact on investment decisions. In this context, determining the effect of rational and irrational factors, which can be considered as financial characteristics for an investor, on investment preferences will be beneficial for future investments. The aim of this study is to determine how financial characteristics (financial literacy, self-confidence, risk susceptibility) shape investment preferences by using a sample selected from university students. Another aim of the study is to determine whether investment decisions for crypto assets, which can be considered relatively new compared to traditional assets, are also shaped according to these characteristics. Methodology- The data obtained in the study were evaluated by frequency analysis and correlation analysis, respectively. Findings- While the most preferred investment tool by female participants is gold, men are in favor of foreign currency. Cryptoassets are the second choice of male participants. Equity and deposit investment were the least preferred products for both genders. The averages of financial literacy, self-confidence and risk-proneness of male participants are higher than females. When the correlation levels between the investment preferences of the participants are examined, it is seen that the most striking correlation is between cryptoassets and stocks. On the other hand, it was seen that the participants who invested more in cryptoassets were investors with cryptoasset literacy and risk-taking profiles. Finally, it is another finding that male participants prefer to invest in crypto assets approximately three times more than female participants. Conclusion- The results of the study revealed that the investment preferences of university students differ according to various criteria.

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