What made you start investing in the first place?

According to a recent survey, ‘investing for retirement’ is the second most-common reason for investing in the stock market.

The content of this article was relevant at the time of publishing. Circumstances change continuously and caution should therefore be exercised when relying upon any content contained within this article.

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When investing, your capital is at risk. The value of your investments can go down as well as up and you may get back less than you put in.

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The content of this article is provided for information purposes only and is not intended to be, nor does it constitute, any form of personal advice. Investments in a currency other than sterling are exposed to currency exchange risk. Currency exchange rates are constantly changing, which may affect the value of the investment in sterling terms. You could lose money in sterling even if the stock price rises in the currency of origin. Stocks listed on overseas exchanges may be subject to additional dealing and exchange rate charges, and may have other tax implications, and may not provide the same, or any, regulatory protection as in the UK.

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Every now and then, I turn to Twitter and ask a question related to investing. I know I can count on Fools to put a smile on my face when I do!

Today, I wanted to share a few of the responses to the query I’ve posed in this article’s headline. Take a look to see which seem familiar to you…

1) Not impressed with Independent Financial Advisors

This is a great example of something that’s at the core of our investing strategy: we believe that the person best positioned to take care of your financial future is you. We also recognise how fees can stack up, which is why we aim to help people take control of their investments themselves.

2) Potential returns

Over the long term, the average annual growth of the stock market is about 7% after inflation. At that growth rate, invested assets double in value about every 10.5 years. Meanwhile, savings provide negative returns after inflation.

Of course, your savings account balance doesn’t fluctuate in response to external factors while the value of your stocks can lose value. But we believe in a long-term outlook, helping people build wealth over time.

3) Prepare for a comfortable retirement

According to a recent survey, ‘investing for retirement’ is the second most-common reason for investing in the stock market, behind ‘a good ROI’. Of those surveyed, 36% said retirement was the main purpose of partaking.

And that’s my reason, too. Can we rely on what the State Pension will give us? I’m not sure, so I’d rather plan for a retirement on my terms.

Should you invest, the value of your investment may rise or fall and your capital is at risk. Before investing, your individual circumstances should be assessed. Consider taking independent financial advice.

Sam Robson has no position in any of the shares mentioned. The Motley Fool UK has no position in any of the shares mentioned. Views expressed on the companies mentioned in this article are those of the writer and therefore may differ from the official recommendations we make in our subscription services such as Share Advisor, Hidden Winners and Pro. Here at The Motley Fool we believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors.

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