Exploring the Role of Impact Investing in Improving Citizens’ Financial Health: Potential and Practical Implementation

Abstract

Abstract

This study’s relevance stems from the substantial increase in private investors. Understanding their behavior is key to suggesting ways to boost stock market value, which is a top priority for the Russian President. This research examines the subject of impact investing’s role in enhancing citizens’ financial health, balancing public and private interests, promoting sustainable development, and improving overall quality of life. The paper aims to identify the potential of impact investing as a tool for increasing the personal well-being of Russians by fostering an impact investing culture focused on positive social and environmental effects. The scientific novelty of this research is its demonstration of conclusions drawn from combining quantitative and qualitative sociological methods. This integration aids in establishing impact investing within a foundational methodological framework. The author used the following research methods : an analysis of theoretical approaches to impact investing as a tool aimed at achieving Russia’s national development goals and boosting the financial well-being of citizens; statistical processing of data obtained during a survey of private Russian retail investors by a group of researchers from the Financial University as part of implementing the Financial University’s state assignment for 2025. Russian opinions on socially responsible investing revealed a substantial socioeconomic disparity. One perspective is a significant number of respondents lack sufficient understanding of impact investing; another one is that because of their upbringing and traditional values that have historically shaped the sociocultural code of the people, Russians show a high commitment to the basic principles of responsible investing. The study proves that this identified the conflict, according to the study, results in broad Russian disagreements about impact investing and its outlook. The author has systematized how respondents view the significance, status, and promising channels for developing informational and educational efforts to expand the impact investing market. The conclusion drawn is that impact investing ought to be the subsequent step in Russia’s financial culture evolution, enacted by the state. Financial institutions and the education system should play a special role here.