Even non-serious investors in Greece are starting to realize how central their smartphones have become in their financial lives. It could be looking at currency rates over a coffee break or scanning alert messages on the metro, but mobile apps have changed the way individuals engage with the markets. The portability to track and take action on investment moves almost anywhere has transformed what was originally a time-consuming and desk-bound exercise into being instant and mobile. The convenience is not the only factor behind this shift but rather the establishment of a greater feeling of control.

This degree of access is a huge step forward to numerous Greek investors. Banking in the nation used to be strict and constrained during the more stressful financial times in the country. Nowadays, mobile platforms put the users in control to review their portfolio’s performance, execute trades, and discover new assets at their own convenience. They will be able to monitor live charts, change stop-loss levels and even study with the help of integrated tutorials, all while going about their daily routines. This feeling of being empowered is important especially to a generation that appreciates independence in the style of their living as well as financial decisions.

It is within this scenario that precious metals trading has received a second wind. The slow-moving or traditionally stable investments such as gold and silver have been integrated into a more rapid and digital experience. Mobile applications enable customers to see how metal prices move in response to global events in real time and to be able to act on those instantly. Traders do not have to wait till the end of the day to receive reports and they do not have to use third parties to implement their plans. They will be able to work fast and accurately, based on data right at their fingertips.

The interesting thing is how such tools are contributing toward attracting new entrants to the market. Individuals who previously found the idea of trading formidable or unfathomable are currently opening accounts by a few taps. Useful interfaces and in-product guidance simplify the interpretation of essential metrics and risks. The users gain confidence with time, not just with the app usage but with their entire investment strategy. Because of this, an increasing number of Greeks are starting to add metals to their portfolios; either as a way of diversification, long-term security, or short-term opportunity.

The mobile apps can also be more personalized. The user is able to create alerts concerning price levels, particular trends, or read market news which is of interest to them. Such customization was not very common in previous trading settings, particularly within the framework of niche assets. Investors can now customize their tools to suit their habits and aspirations, and precious metals seem a lot more accessible.

Other users have gone a notch higher to develop daily routines around these platforms. It has become their routine to check the price movements during lunch, to change settings in the evening or to review the past performance over the weekend. Such an organic inclusion in everyday life prevents investing from becoming a burden or a lottery. It is a continuous learning, adjusting and developing.

Precious metals trading in Greece is no longer the reserve of the old school brokers or the long term deep pocket investor. Due to mobile technology, it is now taking a route to become a modern way of life that is more flexible, transparent and self-guided. The tools are even leading to a feeling of immediacy and relevance to assets that have passed the test of time as they keep on evolving. By doing so, they are opening the gates of participation to broader and more vibrant Greek investors.