A fifth of men (17%) in the UK would consider dipping into their retirement funds to cope with tough times as a result of unforeseen life events compared to just a tenth of women (10%) , according to HSBC's study, The Future of Retirement: A new reality.
The survey of over 15,000 consumers in 15 markets found a significant appetite among savers to dip into retirement savings when faced with financial hardship. However, it also found that a third of people in the UK (32%) are not regular savers, leaving many with no option but to resort to more extreme measures.
Moving to a smaller house was among the alternative coping mechanisms explored by the report, revealing another gender contrast. The study found that a quarter of women (26%) would consider downsizing to deal with financial difficulty, compared to just 18% of men.
The study showed the financial strain that home ownership is placing on today's savers, with a third (30%) saying that buying a home or paying a mortgage has had a significant impact on their ability to save for retirement.
Bricks and mortar is just one of the sacrifices people would consider making if their financial situation demanded it; 22% of respondents said they would consider selling their valuables if they needed the money. However, others would consider borrowing to avoid parting with their assets; 16% would borrow money and 22% would ask friends and family for help.
Christine Foyster, Head of Business Implementation, HSBC UK said:
"There will always be reasons why people need access to cash to cover short term expenses: the key is to make sure that sufficient emergency funds are available so you don't need to be tempted to 'dip in' to long term savings. It's worth considering having a balance of longer term savings and investments, which are harder to access, and some more accessible cash options, which can be used for the unforeseen 'rainy day' expenses.
"UK savers have never been under greater pressure to take responsibility for their own financial health in old age. Whatever short term challenges and events people face, it is vital that they keep one eye on their longer term future and ensure that responding to short term needs doesn't come at the expense of a comfortable retirement."
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