Prudential: 68% of Asians save monthly, but only 46% are confident in handling large and unexpected costs

Prudential’s inaugural Financial Security Index (FSI) across Asia finds that many people maintain regular saving habits, but fewer express confidence in handling large, unexpected expenses—highlighting a gap between short-term financial routines and long-term resilience.

Saving habits vs. confidence to handle shocks

Across the eight Asian markets surveyed, 68% of respondents said they save monthly. However, only 46% reported confidence in their ability to cope with large and unexpected expenses.

Prudential said the contrast suggests that while regular saving may provide short-term reassurance, it does not clearly indicate individuals’ and families’ readiness to withstand major financial shocks and continue pursuing long-term financial goals.

Survey scope and key results

The FSI results are based on a survey of 7,707 people across Hong Kong (China), Taiwan, the Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. The survey period ran from September to December 2025.

Adults aged 18–35 scored the highest overall financial security at 59.8 out of 100. Scores declined in older groups, with 58.2 for ages 36–49 and 57.7 for ages 50–60.

Young adults’ confidence today, concerns for the future

Prudential noted that younger respondents show relatively stronger confidence and day-to-day financial management, but that optimism is accompanied by growing concerns about long-term safety and financial freedom.

Within the 18–35 group, nearly 30% said they are uncertain about managing and responding to financial risks. In addition, 35% expect to continue generating income into retirement, citing concerns about job stability and family health.

Prudential characterized this as a duality of “today’s confidence” alongside “future insecurity,” pointing to a gap in how young people approach and prepare for long-term financial planning.

Why monthly saving may not be enough

The report also found that 67% of respondents maintain monthly saving habits, which it described as a foundation for long-term goals such as education, retirement, or investments.

Prudential said savings are not designed to absorb large and unexpected shocks. When risks such as illness, accidents, or income disruption occur, many families may need to draw on long-term savings to meet urgent needs—making the case that saving is essential, but most effective when supported by financial solutions capable of protecting goals.

Product focus and company performance

In response to demand for solutions across different life stages, Prudential said financial-insurance firms are developing products tailored to varying needs. Prudential Vietnam, in particular, highlighted flexible insurance solutions that allow customers to combine protection and investment to align with different life stages and financial goals.

Products introduced in the past year include Pru Bảo vệ tối đa (Pru Maximum Protection) and Pru Đầu tư vững tiến (Pru Steady Growth Unit-Linked).

Prudential also cited its broader track record, noting nearly 180 years of company history and growth. For 2025, the group reported double-digit growth on key financial metrics, with profits from new business totaling USD 2,782 million, up 12% year over year, reflecting continued ability to meet needs across protection, retirement, and asset accumulation.