How Investing Fuels the U.S. Economy and Builds Your Financial Future

The SEC Shines a Light on Investing During National Financial Literacy Month

Each April, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), through its Office of Investor Education and Advocacy (OIEA), uses National Financial Literacy Month to spotlight the critical role investing plays—not only in shaping a strong financial future for Americans but also in driving the U.S. economy forward.

Why Investing Matters for Individuals and the Nation

Investing goes far beyond simply making your money grow. For individuals and families, it’s a core strategy for reaching life goals—whether it’s funding a college education, enjoying a secure retirement, or achieving long-term wealth.

At the same time, every dollar invested plays a part in something much larger. Investors contribute to capital formation, fueling businesses—from startups to major corporations—that rely on public and private investment to innovate and expand. In doing so, investors support economic growth and job creation across the country.

Building a Strong Financial Future Through Smart Investing

According to SEC Acting Chairman Mark T. Uyeda, investing supports both personal financial health and the broader economy. He emphasized that whether you’re investing in traditional assets like stocks and bonds or exploring newer financial products, your investments help shape the economic landscape of the nation.

Uyeda notes that Financial Literacy Month is the perfect time to emphasize smart saving and investing habits. “From stocks, bonds, and funds to newer products in the marketplace, investing ultimately supports our nation’s overall economy,” he said. “All investors have an opportunity to reach their personal financial goals while also playing a role in capital formation, which makes our economy so dynamic.”

Free Investing Resources Available on Investor.gov

Throughout April, the SEC is promoting free tools and educational materials available on Investor.gov. These resources are designed to help both beginner and experienced investors make informed decisions.

One standout feature this year is the “Ten Investment Tips for 2025” Investor Bulletin, a concise guide designed to help people avoid fraud, understand diversification, and develop informed investment strategies. Additionally, visitors to Investor.gov can test their financial knowledge with the Financial Literacy Month Quiz, an interactive way to learn and assess what you know.

Start Early and Stay Diversified: A Message for All Investors

Lori Schock, Director of the OIEA, encourages Americans to take advantage of these resources regardless of their current investing experience. “Whether you’re new to investing or a seasoned investor, Investor.gov has resources that can help you build wealth for a strong financial future,” she explained.

She highlighted the importance of starting early, sticking to a long-term plan, and ensuring your investments reflect your personal risk tolerance. “Creating a diversified investing strategy aligned with your financial goals helps you build wealth to live the life you want,” she added.

Empowering Communities Through Financial Education Events

To further promote financial literacy, the SEC is organizing a series of outreach events throughout April. These initiatives are designed to reach different demographics, offering tailored investing education and fraud prevention advice.

• Educational Activities for Students and Teachers: High school and college students, along with educators, will have access to workshops and learning materials that build financial literacy skills early on.

• Investor Protection Webinars for Seniors: Older investors will benefit from sessions focused on fraud prevention and managing investment risks in retirement.

• Military Outreach: SEC representatives will engage with service members, offering guidance on tax-advantaged retirement accounts like the Thrift Savings Plan, strategies to build wealth, and tips to avoid scams that commonly target military families.

Ten Building Blocks to Wealth: New Guidance from OIEA’s Director

In conjunction with these efforts, Lori Schock has also published a new article titled “Ten Building Blocks to Building Wealth,” offering practical, easy-to-follow advice for creating a strong financial foundation. The article breaks down essential principles such as budgeting, goal-setting, staying invested during market fluctuations, and recognizing red flags for potential scams.

These insights aim to equip all investors—from those just starting out to seasoned professionals—with the tools they need to navigate a constantly evolving financial landscape.

Take Control of Your Financial Journey Today

April’s National Financial Literacy Month is a timely reminder that investing is not just for the wealthy or financially savvy—it’s a crucial step for anyone who wants to take control of their financial future. By leveraging the resources provided by the SEC and taking deliberate steps to understand your financial options, you can build a more secure, prosperous tomorrow while helping to power the economy today.

SEC Press Release

Representing Advisors and Investors, Nationwide.