Survey finds Canadians trust their own financial discipline more than the broader economy in 2025
Canadians are betting on themselves, not the system, as personal financial confidence rises even while trust in the broader economy remains low, according to the 2025 IG Wealth Management Financial Confidence Index.
As reported by IG Wealth Management and Ipsos Canada, the Index climbed to 52 this year—surpassing its historical average for the first time since 2021—despite widespread pessimism about the economy, persistent affordability concerns, and political instability.
While 70 percent of Canadians describe national economic conditions as poor and 60 percent expect a recession in 2026, most remain confident in their ability to manage their own finances and maintain their standard of living.
Only a third believe a recession would have a significant personal impact, signalling a notable divide between macroeconomic anxiety and individual resilience.
Discipline and planning are at the heart of this resilience.
Six in ten Canadians now say they enjoy life because of the way they manage their money and feel prepared to meet their financial goals, as per the survey.
The Planning & Literacy pillar of the Index saw gains across all groups, with women and Quebecers making significant progress.
At the same time, financial literacy continues to rise, even as fewer Canadians report using a formal budget.
For those focused on workplace and retirement security, the Index highlights ongoing job market insecurities.
Youth unemployment has reached its highest level in decades at 14.6 percent, and half of Canadians expect the job market to worsen in 2026.
Concerns about job loss or reduced hours are particularly acute among younger and lower-income groups, as well as in Ontario.
Cross-border anxiety is also shaping Canadians’ outlook.
According to the Index, 74 percent expect the US political situation to deteriorate and 68 percent anticipate a worsening American economy, with US tariffs emerging as a top concern—especially among older, wealthier Canadians.
The survey further reveals that while most Canadians see professional financial advice as essential—particularly in an era of rapid technological change and artificial intelligence—only about half actually seek it.
One-third believe traditional advice is not keeping pace with market realities, pointing to a gap between expectations and the services available.
