A study by multinational insurer Prudential has found that a majority of young adults in the region want a more structured approach to managing their finances. The research, titled "Financial Mindset of Young Adults in Asia", found that more than 71% of respondents prefer clear financial planning over spontaneity, maintaining consistent insurance and investment habits.
The study revealed that 70% of young adults in Asia are optimistic that their personal finances will improve over the next 5-10 years. Meanwhile, 63% believe that living with uncertainty is now the norm, with 77% citing financial security as their top life concern, surpassing family responsibilities (53%), health (52%), and career and education (42%). Nearly 60% said they are focusing more on the future than on enjoying the present moment.
Despite this uncertainty, young Asians remain bullish about their financial outlook, with 64% confident they will accumulate enough wealth to fund their retirement.
More than 53% of respondents also seek a balance between smart investment strategies and the freedom to enjoy life. Meanwhile, 63% prefer financial solutions that evolve alongside their lives and aspirations, rather than sticking rigidly to a single style of saving or investing.
The survey also shows that young adults in Asia rely on both digital tools and human support when managing insurance and investments. Many are comfortable with digital platforms, with 61% confident in researching and selecting products on their own, and 54% confident in managing their portfolios independently.
However, personal advice remains important. About 64% prefer to consult financial advisers for life or health insurance decisions and ongoing support, particularly when dealing with complex coverage details (70%) and the claims process (68%). At the same time, digital platforms are favoured for real-time financial management, pointing to a growing preference for hybrid solutions that combine digital convenience with human guidance.
Commenting on the findings, Prudential Chief Customer and Wealth Officer Priscilla Ng said, “This generation is redefining how financial management and security are approached, with unique priorities and expectations. Understanding their perspectives helps us tailor solutions that are simple, accessible, and relevant to their needs.”
The study surveyed more than 5,300 young adults across seven Asian markets: Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand.