This study examines the changes in investment preferences of salaried employees with respect to their income levels. The primary objective of the research is to understand how income influences investment decisions, risk tolerance, and the selection of financial instruments. The study is based on primary data collected from 100 salaried individuals using a structured questionnaire. The findings reveal that income level plays a significant role in shaping investment behavior. Employees with lower income levels tend to prefer safe and low-risk investment options such as fixed deposits and insurance, focusing mainly on capital protection and liquidity. Middle-income individuals adopt a balanced approach by investing in both traditional and market-linked instruments like mutual funds. In contrast, high-income earners demonstrate higher risk tolerance and prefer investments in equities, real estate, and other high-return avenues. The study also highlights that factors such as financial awareness, investment objectives, and professional advice influence decision-making. Most respondents show a preference for long-term investments and consider both safety and returns as important factors. Statistical analysis using the Chi-square test confirms a significant relationship between income level and investment preferences. Overall, the research concludes that as income increases, investment strategies shift from conservative to more diversified and growth-oriented approaches. The study emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and informed decision-making in achieving long-term financial security and wealth creation.
Wandhekar et al. (Thu,) studied this question.