Global Survey Revealed Shifting Retirement Saving Trends
A new international study shows how savers are balancing their retirement goals with personal investments and digital influences.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Investing
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Amundi has released its third Decoding Investors study, which analyzed the behaviors and retirement strategies of 18,000 retail savers across 26 countries. The research highlights significant regional disparities in how households seek financial advice and plan for their long-term security.
Why it matters
The study underscores a growing reliance on personal savings and investments, which are expected to account for 42 percent of total retirement income. Understanding these shifts helps households evaluate their own preparedness, as many savers currently underestimate the size of the emergency funds needed to navigate future market volatility.
The study found that 42 percent of retirement funding is expected to come from personal investments, while 52 percent of savers believe an emergency fund of less than six months of income is sufficient. Data reveals varying habits, with 40 percent of Indian respondents regularly taking financial advice compared to 7 percent in Korea.
The players
Amundi
An asset management firm providing investment products and retirement planning research for retail and institutional clients.
The details
Retail savers are increasingly turning to digital channels, with 68 percent of Indian investors using influencers for information compared to 28 percent in France. Meanwhile, there is a clear trend toward market entry, with 43 percent of global savers expecting to start investing within the next 12 months. This shift highlights a transition from traditional advisory models toward self-directed or digitally influenced decision-making.
Timeline
The Amundi study was published in 2026.
43 percent of savers expect to start investing within the next 12 months.
Money Landscape
This report follows the trajectory of the Amundi Decoding Investors study series, which monitors how shifting economic conditions influence household participation in capital markets. The findings suggest a continued, global move toward personal responsibility in funding retirement as traditional pension reliance evolves.
Review your current emergency fund to ensure it covers at least six months of expenses, as relying on smaller buffers can leave households vulnerable to unexpected costs. Before acting on tips from online influencers, consult with a qualified financial professional to ensure the advice aligns with your long-term goals and risk tolerance.
The takeaway
The data highlights a significant move toward self-directed saving, with many households now planning for nearly half of their retirement income to come from personal accounts. Consider auditing your own retirement plan and savings targets to ensure you are not underestimating the total cushion needed for your future.
Further reading
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Source note: This article includes information reported by FTAdviser.
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Do you trust financial information provided by social media influencers when making your own investments?
