Differences in investment decisions among students at the Milagro State University (UNEMI) by academic profile and gender

Abstract

This article analyzes the influence of family financial education and university academic training on the investment culture of students at the State University of Milagro (UNEMI), Ecuador. Based on a survey of 210 students, it is evident that financial socialization at home is limited: only 17% frequently discuss money with their families, and 62% indicate that financial decisions are rarely influenced by the family environment. Although the family is the initial agent of financial socialization, its practical impact is low in the face of contemporary investment challenges. In contrast, the university provides technical knowledge through courses and practical experiences, although only 17% of respondents have received formal financial training. Personal experiences (41%) and family advice (32%) are the predominant sources of financial learning, surpassing academic learning (14%). The main obstacles to investing identified by the students are lack of money (38%), lack of market knowledge (20%), and fear of losing capital (19%). The study concludes that university education has a more direct influence on technical preparedness and investment intentions, but family remains vital in shaping financial habits and attitudes. It recommends strengthening practical financial education at universities and fostering collaboration with families to cultivate a culture of responsible and sustainable investment among young people.