UK savers feel the strain of economic uncertainty

Inflation remains the biggest financial concern for UK retirement savers, with 42% saying they are very concerned about rising prices — ahead of worries about market volatility, unemployment, or geopolitical events.

Our latest Global Retirement Savers Survey shows that while inflation has eased from recent highs, savers remain concerned about the risk of further economic disruption and the potential for inflationary pressures to persist. For many households, that raises concerns not only about the cost of living, but also the possibility of weaker growth, pressure on employment prospects, and interest rates staying higher for longer.

Younger generations are feeling these pressures particularly strongly. Gen Z and millennials report greater concern around interest rates and unemployment as they juggle retirement saving alongside housing costs, debt, and other day-to-day financial priorities.

Financial stress is widespread across all generations:

58% of UK savers report moderate or high stress related to retirement savings
58% are stressed about budgeting
56% are concerned about paying household bills

The survey also highlights a growing investment challenge. Keeping ahead of inflation over the long term is likely to require exposure to growth assets such as equities, yet many savers remain uneasy about stock market volatility. This tension between long-term investing needs and short-term market concerns is becoming increasingly important for retirement outcomes.

For advisers and workplace pension providers, the findings reinforce the need for more tailored engagement strategies that address broader financial wellbeing alongside retirement saving itself.

Sign up to access the full Global Retirement Savers Survey results and explore how UK savers are redefining retirement expectations and financial wellbeing.

Access the full results

Richard Parkin Head of UK Retirement

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