National Investing Day: Investing in America’s Future

Investing plays a central role in helping Americans build long-term financial security while fueling the growth of the U.S. economy.

Approximately 76 million US households, 60% of the total, invest in stocks and bonds, often through vehicles such as mutual funds and ETFs, to fund retirement, education, and financial well-being. Participation in the capital markets allows individuals to grow their savings over time while also contributing to the broader economic growth those markets help create.

On May 1, our industry will recognize National Investing Day, highlighting the important role investing plays in expanding financial opportunity for individuals and families across the nation and underscoring the vital connection between retail investors and the economy.

Investing has always been a central part of how American households build financial security. With more than half of U.S. households invested, tens of millions of families participate in the markets directly or through retirement accounts, mutual funds, and other investment vehicles.

These investors are not only planning for their own futures – they are also helping to support business formation, innovation, and economic growth.

Capital markets make that possible. By connecting investors with the users of capital- small businesses, corporations, governments, and non-profits — markets help fund innovation, support job and wealth creation, and strengthen communities across the United States.

National Investing Day also marks an important milestone in the history of U.S. markets. On May Day in 1975, the Securities and Exchange Commission eliminated fixed brokerage commission rates, expanding competition in the brokerage industry and helping broaden investor access.

Over time, the continued evolution of our capital markets has made investing more competitive, far less expensive and far more accessible to individuals across the country.

National Investing Day also follows Financial Literacy Month, reinforcing the importance of financial education and informed decision-making. Helping individuals understand how investing works — and how it can support long-term financial goals — remains an important priority for the financial services industry.

At SIFMA, our member firms are committed to supporting resilient, effective capital markets that serve investors, businesses, and communities. When markets function well, they create opportunities for individuals to save, invest, and participate in economic growth.

National Investing Day is an opportunity to recognize the role investing plays in both individual financial well-being and the strength of the U.S. economy — and to continue expanding access to the markets that make those opportunities possible.