Stock and cryptocurrency trading and problem gambling behavior during early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic: a narrative literature review

Background The Coronavirus Disease of 2019 (COVID-19) resulted in a global shift in gambling and trading behaviors. At present, a gap exists in understanding the relationship between excessive trading behavior and problem gambling, especially during the COVID-19 period. This narrative review analyzed (1) the changes in trading and gambling activity during the COVID-19 pandemic, (2) whether the pattern of trading activity resembles problem gambling, and (3) whether excessive trading and problem gambling share similar consequences. Methods We searched databases such as Medline, PsychINFO, Scopus, and Google Scholar using relevant keywords, and included 60 reports for narrative synthesis. Results During the COVID-19 pandemic, there were major changes to trading behavior, possibly due to market sentiments and psychology, personal financial needs, social media influence, and the behavior of other investors. The progression of the pandemic led to an increase in brokerage account openings and an increase in trading activities among existing investors, likely due to the development of digital trading platforms that enhanced accessibility for technology-adept investors. There was also a shift from gambling at physical destinations to online gambling, with an increase in frequency and spending among individuals who continued gambling. Feelings of boredom, stress, and the need for relaxation may motivate people to engage in gambling. Conclusion Individuals who engaged in excessive trading and problem gambling shared similar traits and may thus face similar psychiatric consequences. The findings indicate that we can apply the diagnostic criteria for pathological gambling and gambling disorders to excessive trading, given that many of these individuals meet the criteria for an addictive disorder.