ETF Boom in Germany: Millions Join the Trend

Since 2022, 5.3 million people in Germany have started investing in ETFs – an impressive increase of 58%. Today, 14.5 million Germans hold ETFs, making them the second most popular investment product after individual shares.

ETF ownership is growing particularly strongly among women (+56%) and those with an annual income below €30,000 (+44%). This is more than remarkable growth; it signals that investing is becoming part of everyday life in Germany. What was once the domain of “financial professionals” is now a habit for anyone who wants to take control of their financial future.

Why This Matters to You

If you’ve ever thought investing was complicated or “only for experts”, ETFs prove otherwise. They are simple, transparent, cost-efficient and allow you to access entire markets with just a few clicks. Even small amounts can kick-start long-term wealth building. According to the “People & Money” study by BlackRock and YouGov, which surveyed over 40,000 Europeans, 47% of German investors recognise that investing can grow their savings faster than leaving money idle in a bank account. Interestingly, one in four respondents admitted they started investing due to FOMO (“Fear of Missing Out”) – motivated by the fear of missing out after seeing others grow their wealth.

The Power of ETF Savings Plans

ETF savings plans have become the most common entry point into investing in Germany. 51% of Germans plan to start an ETF savings plan within the next two years, including 38% of those who have never invested before. Among 18- to 34-year-olds, interest has surged to 67%.

This trend towards financial self-reliance goes hand in hand with growing awareness of retirement planning. The traditional pay-as-you-go system is increasingly under strain. Many now realise that saving for retirement must start earlier: in just twelve months, nearly one million children’s investment accounts were opened in Germany – even before new government incentives came into effect.

Conclusion

This year’s “People & Money” study makes one thing clear: You don’t need to be an expert to invest. Start small, stay consistent and learn about ETFs (for example here). Even modest, regular contributions can have a big impact over time. Whether for your own future or your children’s, every euro invested today is a step towards greater financial freedom tomorrow.

Source: 14 November 2025, BlackRock People & Money Study / YouGov Plc.

This document is marketing material. Before investing please read the Prospectus and the PRIIPs KID available on www.ishares.com/it, which contain a summary of investors’ rights.

Risk Warnings

Capital at risk. The value of investments and the income from them can fall as well as rise and are not guaranteed. Investors may not get back the amount originally invested.

Important information

This document is marketing material.

In the European Economic Area (EEA): this is issued by BlackRock (Netherlands) B.V. is authorised and regulated by the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets. Registered office Amstelplein 1, 1096 HA, Amsterdam, Tel: 020 – 549 5200, Tel: 31-20-549-5200. Trade Register No. 17068311 For your protection telephone calls are usually recorded.

This is Marketing Material.

Any research in this document has been procured and may have been acted on by BlackRock for its own purpose. The results of such research are being made available only incidentally. The views expressed do not constitute investment or any other advice and are subject to change. They do not necessarily reflect the views of any company in the BlackRock Group or any part thereof and no assurances are made as to their accuracy.

This document is for information purposes only and does not constitute an offer or invitation to anyone to invest in any BlackRock funds and has not been prepared in connection with any such offer.

© 2025 BlackRock, Inc. All Rights reserved. BLACKROCK, BLACKROCK SOLUTIONS and iSHARES are trademarks of BlackRock, Inc. or its affiliates. All other trademarks are those of their respective owners.