Report reveals people’s financial goals as New Year begins
According to the findings, reviewing and reducing monthly spending continues to feature as one of the top financial goals. One in three working individuals (31%) plan to cut costs this year, up from 26% in 2025. This trend reflects growing awareness of the importance of managing day-to-day expenses in an uncertain economic climate.
Another area gaining traction is building emergency savings. The proportion of people aiming to create a “rainy day” fund has risen significantly—from 21% last year to 28% in 2026. Younger savers are leading the charge, with 31% of those under 35 prioritising emergency funds, an encouraging and positive trend.
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While paying off debt remains a key goal, many want to save toward specific goals such as a house deposit, holiday, or education. With an increase in the use of finance and budgeting apps, there is a higher probability of successfully achieving these goals.
Beyond everyday budgeting, more people are turning their attention to building wealth. The popularity of investing is on the rise, with 12% planning to open an ISA (individual savings account) and 14% intending to invest in stocks or other assets. This shift suggests a growing appetite for long-term financial growth, despite economic uncertainty and a general increase in the cost of living expenses.
With continual legislative changes to the state pension age, inheritance tax and pensions, salary sacrifice limits, it is understandable that many are making the management of their financial future a priority.
Retirement remains a significant focus, with many planning to review their pension plans in 2026 and increase contributions. Encouragingly, 30% of those considering a pension review said they would boost their contributions—a sharp increase from 20% last year. Other common actions include checking pension balances, reviewing projected retirement income, updating beneficiaries, and consolidating multiple pensions into one plan (8%).
The start of a New Year is the perfect time to reset all finances; many adjustments can be made independently and without too much time.
While everyday needs often take priority, it is encouraging to see more people prioritising pensions, retirement and building significant wealth over the long term. For these key financial milestones, the right financial advice is recommended, as this can save considerable time and money for your options for retirement, determining exactly how much you need.
A financial review and forecast will also consider if you have the right investment strategy in place, any adjustments required and how to tax efficiently achieve this. Even small steps—like increasing contributions or checking your projected income—can make a significant difference over time.
Just as a personal trainer can help you achieve fitness goals, financial planners and digital tools can guide you toward financial success. There is no shortage of apps and advice available, but cutting through the noise to create a tailored, long-term plan is essential.
For major decisions—such as retirement planning or passing wealth to the next generation—professional advice is invaluable.
Financial resolutions vary depending on life stage and circumstances, but the message is clear: balancing short-term needs with long-term goals is crucial.
Whether it is reducing spending, building savings, investing, or planning for retirement, even small actions today can secure the future you want.
Janice Dallas is a financial planner at AC Wealth in Glasgow
