By Lytania Johnson
In the 2025 survey, we saw clear evidence that a retirement plan creates momentum. Of the respondents under-60, no less than 60% said they had a retirement plan in place. And those with a plan were more likely to feel hopeful, motivated and empowered about their retirement future. Last year's research also showed that retirement planning was not held back by lack of interest, but that people were often constrained by everyday financial pressures, uncertainty and not knowing what a good plan should look like. The 2026 survey findings build on these insights. Nearly three quarters of under-60s surveyed now report having a retirement plan in place - up from the 60% in 2025. That is a meaningful shift and gives us confidence that the retirement conversation is gaining ground. It is particularly encouraging to see stronger planning behaviour among lower-income consumers, where the number of respondents with a plan has risen significantly.
But intention, and even action, are not the same as readiness. Many South Africans want to save, but the path still feels unclear. In the 2026 research, 24% of under-60s without a retirement plan said they did not know where to get savings and investment products. That's almost double the 13% who said the same in 2025 and it's very concerning. Two in five under-60s also said they wished they knew more about financial matters, while one in four said they felt out of their depth. These are certainly not signs of apathy; they signal that people want to plan and save, but they need simpler, clearer and more accessible support. The role of a financial institutions in these plans and journeys cannot be limited to offering products. We have to help customers understand where to start, what to prioritise and how to make retirement planning part of everyday financial life. That requires us to go beyond merely commenting on how few South Africans are ready for retirement and recognising the financial realities people face, including the rising cost of living, debt, family responsibilities and competing short-term needs.
So, the opportunity is there to help more South Africans move from intention to informed action. And we must take it. A better retirement outcome starts with a first step, but it is sustained through guidance, appropriate products and advice that meets people where they are. The progress we are seeing is real. Now we have a responsibility to help turn that progress into lasting retirement readiness.
