Framing Effect

The way information is presented significantly influences decision-making, even when the facts are identical.

Behavioral Finance

Definition

Framing effect shows that people's choices change based on whether options are described in terms of gains or losses, even when the underlying economics are identical. "90% survival rate" sounds better than "10% mortality rate" despite being the same statistic. In investing, framing affects risk perception, product selection, and trade execution.

lightbulb Example

Two investment options: A) "80% chance of preserving your capital" vs B) "20% chance of losing your entire investment." Both describe the same product, but most investors choose A due to positive framing.

verified_user Key Points

  • Identical facts, different presentation = different decisions
  • Gain framing promotes risk-averse behavior
  • Loss framing promotes risk-seeking behavior
  • Marketing extensively exploits framing effects

menu_book Browse Glossary

Explore 1000+ financial terms with definitions, formulas, and examples.

search Browse All Terms

Put Your Knowledge to Work

Open a free demo account and apply what you've learned with $50,000 in virtual capital.

Open Account