Despite inflation and a potential recession, 66% of U.S. adults surveyed feel “confident” about their ability to reach their financial goals, according to a new survey from New York Life.
Only half that number, though, report being "hopeful" about their financial future.
The survey results are a tale of two attitudes. In the online poll of 4,410 adults, conducted in December, 68% listed inflation as a top concern. Fully 70% reported being in debt, primarily through a credit card, mortgage, or home equity loan.
But perhaps most surprising of all is that, despite their concerns and confidence about the future, 71% say they either don't have a financial strategy in place or need help with the one they have.
"Over one in five adults report that they’re seeking guidance to help them adapt their financial strategy to achieve their financial health goals in 2023, including debt management, building emergency savings, and saving for retirement," said Suzanne Schmitt, head of financial wellness at New York Life, in a statement.
This, the press release added, represents an opportunity for financial advisors.
Specifically, 83 of respondents say they have a long-term financial goal. What those goals are, however, varies. The most common ones are building up emergency funds—a top priority for 41% of respondents—and paying off credit card debt, which was cited by 31% of the people.
More interesting still, the survey found discrepancies among different demographic groups. For instance, while 37% of men feel hopeful, only 28% of women do. More women feel "stressed," at 39% of respondents, versus 26% of men. And while 77% of all adults report feeling confident they will be able to retire at their desired age, only 44% of women and 45% of Gen Xers feel less prepared for retirement. Gen Xers refers to those born between about 1965 and 1980, or between the baby boomers and the millennials.
“While financial health and confidence for Americans may differ for myriad factors, it’s worth noting that women and Gen Xers, or those within the ‘sandwich generation,’ are likely parent-caregivers, handling both parent or guardian and unpaid adult caregiving roles, often leading to greater levels of stress,” said Schmitt.
The survey also reported on how well respondents did at meeting their savings goals in 2022. On average, adults aimed to save $5,437 last year but ended up saving just $5,011. Men tended to save more than women, socking away an average of $7,007 versus $3,146 for women. Perhaps this isn’t surprising, since men tend to earn more. But the highest savings rate, in terms of the generation, were millennials—those born between 1981 and 1996. On average, they saved $6,043 last year.
Younger folks are also more likely to be concerned about the impact of housing market prices and job security. Nearly one in five Millennials and the younger Gen Zers listed these as their top financial concerns for the year ahead.
“Changes brought about by the pandemic, natural disasters, and shifting workplace dynamics—along with ongoing inflation and uncertainty—continue to impact well-being and future outlooks,” said Schmitt.