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Behavioural Insights
Thoughtful analysis of how psychology shapes financial behaviour, spending habits, and long term decision making, translating academic research into practical insights that help individuals make smarter, more intentional financial choices.
Discounts: Spending rather than Saving?
Forever ago, I posted a picture on twitter that stated the following: "If something costs $1000 and it is now on sale for £750, and then...
Merle van den Akker
Mar 25, 20194 min read
Good Financial Behaviour
In the previous article behaviours of “not-so-great” investors are outlined. There is however, hope, as also some advice is given as...
Merle van den Akker
Jan 10, 20194 min read
Meaningless Money
On Twitter I was approached by an anti-litter organisation, which is trying to change people’s behaviour towards their environment and...
Merle van den Akker
Sep 5, 20184 min read
Women & Finance
In collaboration with ING eZonomics, I have written an article about women in finance. The article outlines how many women tend to leave...
Merle van den Akker
Aug 30, 20181 min read
Now vs. Later
Later is such a non-concept. Now is much more concrete. I know what now looks like. Now, I know what I like, what I don’t like and what I...
Merle van den Akker
Aug 22, 20184 min read
I want it NOW!
I’m impatient. My mom is even worse. For us having something now is of much higher value than having it later. Later is an awful word...
Merle van den Akker
Aug 21, 20185 min read
Save First
I have told you how credit cards and contactless make you spend more compared to cash. How you can inhibit spending. How some people...
Merle van den Akker
Aug 19, 20184 min read
Balancing Savings and Debt
Not everyone has savings, some just have debt. Others have faired better and have no debt, and on top of that even have savings. Some...
Merle van den Akker
Aug 17, 20184 min read
Mental Accounting Mishaps
When I was younger and got pocket money I always made sure I saved half and was allowed to spend the other half on candy and later on...
Merle van den Akker
Aug 16, 20185 min read
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