The real power in that 19k is over a long period of time. I have no idea what the rates you get in standard savings, but assuming 2-3% interest on that you're looking at ~$450,000 over about 20 years. VS ~800,000 over 20 years at 7% interest (that's a pretty conservative investment interest rate).

But as you mention, you're not in the US, so you may not be limited to that 19k (That's simply a different tax strategy, no one says you can only save that much).