A new visual report by Visual Capitalist, based on HelloSafe data, reveals the latest insights into global stock market participation rates. The data, compiled from 2023–2024 and published this April, shows striking differences in how populations around the world engage with stock markets, including both direct shareholders and those investing through financial vehicles like pension funds and insurance.

U.S. Leads the World in Stock Market Participation

The United States tops the list, with an impressive 55% of its population participating in the stock market, amounting to 185.4 million shareholders. This dominance is not surprising given the country's mature investment culture, widespread access to financial markets, and the deep integration of retirement savings with stock investments.

Canada and Australia Also Show Strong Participation

Canada follows closely behind, with 49% of its population—around 19.1 million individuals—holding investments. Australia ranks third, with a 37% participation rate, reflecting 9.6 million shareholders.

Both countries benefit from government policies promoting equity ownership, robust pension systems, and high levels of financial literacy among citizens.

Europe Shows Mixed Results

The United Kingdom boasts a 33% participation rate (22.1 million investors), while other European nations display varied levels of market engagement. Sweden stands out with a 22% rate, whereas Germany and France hover around 14-15%. Switzerland and Finland also have relatively healthy engagement at 18% and 19%, respectively.

Asia's Growing Markets

While traditional Asian giants like China and India have enormous numbers of shareholders—98.7 million and 85.8 million, respectively—their participation rates remain low at 7% and 6%. Japan, a more mature market, has a 15% participation rate with 18.7 million investors.

Vietnam impresses with a 16% participation rate, showcasing rapid growth in retail investing fueled by economic expansion and a growing middle class.

Other Highlights

New Zealand has a strong showing at 31% participation.

Russia reports a 21% participation rate, reflecting over 30 million shareholders despite economic challenges.

Brazil and South Africa are notable in emerging markets, with 8% and 14% participation rates, respectively.

At the lower end of the scale, Mexico, Morocco, and the Philippines show minimal engagement, with participation rates between 1-2%.

Developed countries like the U.S., Canada, Australia, and the U.K. have some of the highest rates of stock market participation.

Emerging markets show significant shareholder numbers but low percentages relative to their population sizes.

Financial education, ease of access to investing platforms, and supportive government policies are critical drivers of higher participation.