Working Ghanaians show signs of financial recovery, but long‑term vulnerability persists - Old Mutual Financial Wellness Monitor

Old Mutual Financial Wellness Monitor (OMFWM) reveals that working Ghanaians are emerging from a period of deep financial strain with increasing optimism, improved financial discipline, and reduced stress levels, supported by a stabilising macroeconomic environment. The research cautions that long‑term financial vulnerability remains widespread, driven by short-term savings behaviour, low retirement preparedness, and limited access to professional financial advice. The survey focuses on urban and peri‑urban working Ghanaians aged 20 to 59 earning GH¢1,200 or more.

Confidence in Ghana's economy has more than doubled, rising from 22percent to 48percent, with 7 in 10 working Ghanaians believing the economy will improve over the next year. Financial stress levels have halved, dropping from 60percent to 30percent, the lowest level recorded in 3 years of tracking. More than a third (37percent) of respondent's report earning more than they did a year ago, but 39percent fear losing their income, and nearly half would run out of money within 3 months if that income stopped. Roy Punungwe, CEO of Old Mutual Group Ghana, said, "After several years of sustained financial pressure, working Ghanaians are finally beginning to experience some much-needed financial breathing room. In a more stable macro-economic environment, people are becoming more intentional - managing debt prudently, exercising greater control over spending, and actively rebuilding their savings."

Expense control has become a major priority in 2025, second only to income security. Savings behaviour is strengthening, with 24percent of household income allocated to savings, and 80percent of respondents reporting having a savings goal. Despite 92percent acknowledging the importance of retirement savings, retirement ranks only seventh among savings priorities, with just 1 in 3 actively saving