Rising economic and political uncertainty is prompting a significant number of UK adults to reassess their financial priorities, according to new research from Standard Life.

More than eight in 10 adults (83%) believe the world has become less predictable than it was a few years ago, with that sense of instability feeding directly into concerns about money and long-term financial security.

59% say recent changes in the UK have made them feel less confident about their future finances, while 57% point to global developments as a further source of unease.

The findings come from Standard Life’s latest Retirement Voice report, which explores how shifting economic conditions are shaping public attitudes to saving, investing and retirement planning.

Cost pressures remain the dominant concern. Almost all respondents (94%) say they are at least somewhat worried about inflation and rising prices, while 91% are concerned about energy costs. Anxiety around potential tax rises is also widespread, cited by 83% of adults, alongside worries about interest rate increases (68%) and trade tariffs (65%).

UNCERTAINTY SHAPES FINANCIAL DECISIONS

This backdrop is influencing behaviour. Almost a quarter of adults (23%) say heightened uncertainty has made them more likely to put money into cash savings rather than investments, while one in five (19%) are considering delaying their retirement.

Among those aged 55 to 65, around one in 10 (11%) say they are more likely to take money out of their pension as a result.

However, the research also points to more constructive responses. Nearly half (48%) of adults say they are more likely to build up additional savings, and close to one in five (18%) are considering seeking financial advice to help them navigate an increasingly complex financial environment.

This growing focus on saving mirrors the rise in household savings levels seen since the pandemic, driven initially by reduced spending opportunities during lockdowns and later by a desire for greater financial security amid economic instability.

While higher savings can provide reassurance, Standard Life cautions that holding large sums in cash may not always be beneficial over the long term, particularly when inflation erodes purchasing power.

Mike Ambery, retirement savings director at Standard Life, said: “When the world feels harder to read, it’s completely natural for people to question their financial plans.

“Our findings reflect that sense of unease, but it also shows something positive. Many people are using this moment to pause, reassess and take steps that give them a greater sense of control.

“Whether that’s building up savings, revisiting their retirement plans or simply checking in on where they stand, these small actions can make a meaningful difference over the long term.

“Uncertainty doesn’t mean standing still. If anything, it highlights the importance of understanding your options and making decisions that work for your circumstances.

“Taking time to seek advice or guidance, review your pension or think about what you want your future to look like can help people feel more confident, more prepared and better equipped for whatever comes next.”