'Emotional barriers' and economic history stifling personal investment

Central Bank of Ireland governor Gabriel Makhlouf said significant barriers are preventing Irish people from investing

Governor Gabriel Makhlouf said Ireland's low level of direct retail participation reflects a complex interplay of historical, cultural, and structural factors

The State's economic history of financial crises and a series of emotional and psychological barriers are behind Ireland's low participation in retail investment, the governor of the Central Bank has warned.

Speaking at the inaugural Savings and Investment Forum on Tuesday, Gabriel Makhlouf said Ireland has one of the lowest levels of direct holdings in investment funds in Europe at just 2.2%, despite being one of the largest global centres for investment funds.