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Gamified risk-taking

Author

Listed:
  • Chapkovski, Philipp
  • Khapko, Mariana
  • Zoican, Marius

Abstract

We conduct a randomized online experiment to examine how digital nudges to hold volatile assets, a form of trading gamification, influence retail investors’ risk-taking behavior. A sample of 605 participants from four countries traded a virtual asset on an experimental platform. The gamified platform incorporates digital nudges, such as achievement badges and motivational prompts, explicitly designed to encourage holding decisions. We find that nudges significantly amplify risk-taking, particularly in high-volatility environments. The effect is most pronounced among inexperienced traders with lower financial literacy, with a one standard deviation increase in financial literacy reducing the impact by 56%.

Suggested Citation

  • Chapkovski, Philipp & Khapko, Mariana & Zoican, Marius, 2025. "Gamified risk-taking," Journal of Behavioral and Experimental Finance, Elsevier, vol. 46(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:beexfi:v:46:y:2025:i:c:s2214635025000309
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jbef.2025.101049
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior
    • G11 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Portfolio Choice; Investment Decisions
    • G41 - Financial Economics - - Behavioral Finance - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making in Financial Markets
    • G53 - Financial Economics - - Household Finance - - - Financial Literacy

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