Institute for Family Studies links young male traders to gambling patterns

A study by the Institute for Family Studies reveals a strong correlation between frequent stock trading and psychological distress among young men. Among 2,000 men aged 18-29 surveyed, one in four engages in daily stock trading, and 64% of those individuals reported feeling like a “loser in life.”

These findings closely mirror patterns observed in young men who gamble daily, where 66% expressed similar feelings of inadequacy. The research suggests that the rise in individual trading, particularly in high-frequency areas like options, may be linked to broader mental health crises and a sense of loss of motivation among young males.

As the line between investing and gambling blurs, financial platforms such as Robinhood Markets and Interactive Brokers Group are increasingly catering to Gen Z interests by offering both stock trading and various betting opportunities on events.