Over half of Hongkongers find retirement savings inadequate

Fifty-two percent of Hongkongers have perceived inadequacy in their retirement savings, according to a Manulife survey conducted between January and February 2025.

Among the 1,000 Hong Kong adults Manulife interviewed, cash makes up 45 percent of liquid assets across total savings and investment, with younger individuals aged 25 to 34 holding an even larger share at 53 percent.

In retirement preparation, Manulife indicates that 55 percent of Hong Kong residents consider cash their most important asset, followed by pension schemes at 31 percent. Jeanie Ho, head of Hong Kong and Macau retirement at Manulife, said cash offers a sense of security but is often insufficient for maintaining a high quality of life in retirement.

According to Manulife, 77 percent of respondents prioritized being meaningful over simply living longer. Many of them would prefer a fulfilling life to age 75 over living to 80 in an ordinary manner.

Achieving the purpose to live well and not just live longer requires three key pillars – physical, financial, and mental health – according to Manulife.

VERONICA HU