Since the pandemic, UK households have saved more of their disposable income, but a large share of this is not being put to productive use. Our new research explains why many hesitate to invest and calls for urgent action from the wealth management industry.
Key findings
Confidence about saving and investing is low
Only a small share of the UK population feel confident about saving and investing for retirement.
Risk aversion is driving an overallocation to cash
More respondents expect cash to deliver better long-term returns than stocks.
Reliance on property is too high
Respondents are extremely optimistic about house price growth over the next 25 years.
People are thinking about retirement too late
Almost a quarter of those aged 18-34 have no plans to think about retirement.
Individuals aren’t being adequately equipped to make good financial decisions
Respondents most commonly turn to friends and family for financial advice about retirement.
Expectations of the state are high
There are high expectations for what the state will provide, particularly in higher income and younger cohorts.
A healthier UK economy, in turn, benefits households themselves: a genuine win-win.
Underinvestment has consequences for both household retirement prospects and the UK economy. Supporting consumers on the saver to investor journey could create a transformative virtuous circle.
Materials to use with your clients
Support your clients to take the first steps to investing with our video series, articles and more.
