Green Energy Stocks versus Green Mutual Funds: Investor Risk Perceptions, Sustainability Preferences and Growth Expectations
Kshma
Abstract
Purpose. This study compares investor perceptions of green energy stocks and green mutual funds, focusing on perceived risk, sustainability contribution, long-term growth potential and awareness of investment-specific risks. Design/methodology/approach. The study adopts a comparative quantitative design and uses primary survey data from 102 valid respondents with exposure to green investment products. Frequency analysis, percentage analysis, cross-tabulation and Pearson's chi-square tests are used to examine associations between investment preference and selected investor perceptions. Findings. The results indicate statistically significant associations between investment preference and perceived risk (χ² = 28.772, p = .004), investment-management preferences related to sustainability participation (χ² = 47.495, p < .001), and perceived long-term growth potential (χ² = 102.184, p < .001). No statistically significant association is found between awareness of specific risk factors and investment preference (χ² = 66.882, p = .112). However, the chi-square tables contain substantial expected-frequency violations, so the strength of these relationships should be interpreted cautiously. Originality/value. The study provides an investor-level comparison of green energy stocks and green mutual funds in the Indian context. It highlights that investor choice is associated more strongly with overall perceptions of risk, growth and management than with awareness of individual risk factors.