Retirement: Aware but Inactive French Citizens

A Shared Concern, Limited Action

While pension reform is on hold until the presidential elections in 2027, the issue remains a hot topic. For 72% of French citizens, the thought of retirement is a source of anxiety. The majority fears a decline in their standard of living, yet they don't financially anticipate this stage. According to the survey, 78% of respondents save regularly but rarely with retirement as a goal; instead, they favor regulated savings accounts, PELs, or traditional life insurance, more out of habit and a lack of guidance.

"Financial constraints do not explain everything, » analyzes Éric Chancy, CEO of UMR. « Many French people feel underinformed or believe they don't have the right tools to prepare for this period. » Indeed, 63% of respondents say they are not sufficiently informed about retirement savings, and more than half have never received specific advice on the subject.

Among those aged 55-64, awareness of the risk is increasing: 71% report that they are financially preparing for retirement, but this is often done with modest contributions—less than 100 euros per month for half of them. This « micro-preparation » reflects a culture of caution, but not yet one of capital accumulation.

Towards a Need for Personalized Support

The psychological aspect is central: 68% of the French admit to avoiding thinking about it since the prospect seems so anxiety-inducing. In a context of persistent inflation, money becomes a source of stress (72%) and avoidance. Yet, solutions do exist.

The PER (Plan d'Épargne Retraite) is gradually establishing itself as an appropriate answer. Those who have adopted it highlight its flexibility (adjustable contributions, the possibility of early withdrawal in certain cases) and its tax advantages. However, its image remains unclear: too technical for some, too « restrictive » for others.

According to Nicolas Fleuriot, development director at UMR, « it's no longer enough to convince people of the importance of retirement savings; we must provide the means to take action. This requires education, transparency, and human support. » French people favor personalized advice as well: 6 out of 10 wish to engage with a trusted advisor—whether it be a mutual insurance advisor, banker, or wealth management consultant—to build a coherent and sustainable strategy.

The Need for Personalized Support

The psychological dimension is central: 68% of French people admit to avoiding thinking about it, as the prospect seems so anxiety-inducing. In a context of persistent inflation, money has become a source of stress (72%) and avoidance. However, solutions do exist.

The PER (Retirement Savings Plan) is gradually establishing itself as an appropriate response. Savers who have adopted it highlight its flexibility (adjustable contributions, the possibility of early withdrawal in certain cases) and tax advantages. Yet, its image remains unclear: too technical for some, too « restrictive » for others.

According to Nicolas Fleuriot, Director of Development at UMR, « It is no longer enough to convince people of the importance of retirement savings: we must provide the means to take action. This involves education, transparency, and human support. » Moreover, the French are in favor of personalized advice: 6 in 10 wish to be able to discuss with a trusted advisor—an insurance company, banker, or wealth management advisor—to build a coherent and sustainable strategy.