This research, “Beyond Financial Education and Knowledge,” explores how objective financial knowledge and past exposure to financial education shape individuals’ future long-term investment motivation. Using a quantitative, correlational study design, the research uses existing data from the 2021 United States Financial Industry Regulatory Authority’s (FINRA) National Financial Capability Study (NFCS), analysing a nationally representative sample of 2,824 respondents. Results from regression analysis reveal an upbeat and statistically positive relationship between objective financial knowledge and long-term investment motivation, confirming that objective financial knowledge is a strong predictor. Financial education did not demonstrate a significant impact on long-term investment motivation. Demographic variables of gender, ethnicity, education, and income were significantly associated with motivation, while age was not. These findings provide insights for policymakers and financial educators to improve the finance education topics offered in the K-12 curriculum and other financial education interventions to strengthen this foundational offering and enhance future financial decision-making.

Accepted Oral Presentation