Asians are living longer, but many still struggle to feel financially secure in later life, according to the 2025 Financial Resilience and Longevity Report from Manulife Wealth and Asset Management. The study, covering Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines, found that most people prioritize quality of life over extended lifespans.
Fewer than one in 10 respondents said they wanted to live longer regardless of circumstances. About half said they value living a meaningful life, while more than one-third said they do not want to be a burden on others.
When thinking about later years, respondents said they aim to be financially independent, stay physically and mentally active, and age gracefully while keeping their preferred standard of living.
“Longevity is reshaping how people across Asia think about retirement. We’re seeing people rethink what retirement means—not simply living longer, but living better. Financial independence, health, and well-being now define success in this new era of longevity,” said Calvin Chiu, head of Asia retirement and CEO of Manulife Investment Management Hong Kong.
Three-quarters of respondents said financial wellbeing affects their physical and mental health, and 85 percent said it shapes their mental state during retirement. Chiu noted that “People across Asia want to enjoy their extended lifespans with dignity, purpose, and freedom,” adding that a shift is needed from saving for retirement to planning for longevity.
Despite these insights, fewer than half of respondents believe they will have enough funds to retire comfortably. Confidence levels range from 48 percent in Hong Kong to 77 percent in Indonesia. People aged 45 to 54 are the least confident, highlighting the need for earlier financial planning.
Cash remains the largest share of non-property investments, showing continued caution toward risk. Many respondents cited fear of capital loss and limited investment knowledge as reasons for avoiding higher-yield assets. While property is still viewed as important, only three in 10 now see it as less of a priority than before.
“Holding too much cash and relying solely on property can leave people vulnerable to inflation and income shortfalls,” Chiu said. “Building financial resilience means diversifying across income-generating and inflation-protected assets—and doing so early.”
