The average Aussie investor earned $5,356 in 2021

Australian investors are making a small fortune through the stock market, according to new research by Finder.
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A survey of 366 investors found 3 in 4 (75%) received a positive return over the past 12 months, with an impressive average growth of 20.4%.
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That's an annual return of $5,356 based on the size of the average investor's portfolio today ($31,613), according to Finder's Consumer Sentiment Tracker.
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For comparison's sake, the S&P/ASX 200 Index posted a calendar year gain of 13% in 2021, or 17% including the value of dividends paid.
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Finder research shows more than 1 in 3 Aussies (37%) are investing in the stock market, with millennials (46%) and generation Z (42%) the most likely to do so.
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Kylie Purcell, share trading expert at Finder, said investing is a smart way to earn money while interest rates are low.
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"With savings rates at record lows, Australians have been quick to adapt by putting some of their money into shares, which can deliver higher returns.
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"The 2020 market crash was a game changer for Australians, with thousands of people a day signing up to online brokers for the first time."
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Purcell said investing used to be a complex concept for many Australians.
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"Now we're seeing more and more people who are keen to get involved and build their wealth.
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"Online platforms and apps like eToro and Superhero have made it super easy for everyone to jump in. They're intuitive to use – but watch out for brokerage and subscription fees.
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"Some platforms also charge an inactivity fee if you're not regularly trading, so it's worth comparing your options before getting started."
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Purcell said many Aussies' investment strategies were paying off.
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"The average person surveyed is beating the broader Australian market which has risen just 9.8% in the past 12 months.
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"You don't need to be rich to get involved – there are also micro-investing apps that let you invest your spare change.
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"It's a good idea to ensure your investment is diversified. Instead of betting all your chips on one or two companies, spread it out to reduce your risk."
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Finder's research found those who received an increase in income this year reported a higher overall return (30.6%).
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