Educated investors are more likely to achieve financial security and do a better job of protecting themselves against potential fraud and abuse. The Washington town meeting will be the 30th such event in a national series to promote public understanding of the securities markets and awareness of the risks and rewards of investing. Today with nearly half of American households investing in the stock market, many using the Internet to do so, it is incredibly important that investors become as financially literate as possible. According to the Securities Industry Association, a trade group that represents brokers, an estimated 48 percent of American households now own stock directly or indirectly through mutual funds or retirement accounts. The Investment Company Institute, which represents mutual fund companies, reported last month that Americans have invested a record 5.9 trillion in mutual funds alone.
Admission is free, but reservations are recommended because seating is limited.