Published Paper Details:

Investments have gained momentum over the years since it is believed that merely earning money is not enough. One feels the need for a sense of social security in case of unforeseen happenings. The ultimate goal is to boost one�s passive income so as to live a cushy life. Due to the prevalence of this mindset among investors, companies in India were able to raise 114.1 billion USD in 2019. Also, assets managed by mutual funds reached 26.94 trillion USD. To facilitate the hike in one�s passive income, one�s awareness levels with regard to investment should be stimulated from a tender age and one�s mind should be conditioned towards risks associated with the same. In view of the above mentioned scenario, a comprehensive research has been conducted. This research has been conducted to analyse the levels of awareness with regard to the concerned subject, analyse one�s behaviour towards market trends and ascertain the road ahead. From the point of view of those who do not maintain investment portfolios, we wish to ascertain their understanding of the investment market and the financial literacy of both those who invest and also those who do not. Thereby, we wish to point out gaps in one�s knowledge and establish a scope of improvement of awareness levels towards the same. To facilitate the same, a primary research has been conducted to collate Quantitative Data and conduct a Descriptive Research. Under the banner of Descriptive Research, a Single-Cross Sectional Study has been conducted on students across Mumbai ranging from 16 to 25 years of age. The reason for the same is to delve deep into just 1 section of society and develop the necessary findings in a comprehensive manner. The results drawn have shown poor results which range from a low level of investment among students (16 to 25 years of age), which has been attributed to low levels of awareness of investment products and a significantly low level of financial literacy even among those who maintain investment portfolios, to a greater reliance on convenient sources of information to make investment decisions such as family and friends rather than company financial statement analysis or market trend analysis. An increase in the awareness levels of students with regard to traditional investment products such as Mutual Funds, Equity shares, Fixed Deposits and Insurance is advocated with a special focus on Derivatives. Family and friends are encouraged to inculcate the habit of financial statement and market trend analysis in youth around the age of 16 years to facilitate an increase in short and long term investments by students in order to secure the latter�s future.