MERRILL LYNCH AFFLUENT INSIGHTS SURVEY

Examining the Values, Financial Priorities and Concerns of Affluent Americans

Since 2009, the Merrill Lynch Affluent Insights Survey™ has examined the goals, values and complex financial needs of affluent Americans. Our latest survey reveals that the affluent view today's economic uncertainty as the "new normal." Many are taking steps to gain greater control of their financial lives, including more conservative spending habits and lowering their debt. These actions may be among the reasons why more than half feel a greater sense of stability in their financial lives today than they did one year ago – and why many are cautiously optimistic about the year ahead.

At a time when health care costs and funding retirement continue to weigh on their minds, many affluent families are also faced with the added challenge of financially supporting a parent or adult-age child.

Questioning whether they'll be able to achieve certain financial and life goals prior to retirement, the affluent cite a need for help in prioritizing these goals in order to achieve the outcomes they're working toward today and in the future.

To learn more about the full survey findings download the report here.

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