Singaporeans are expressing heightened confidence in their financial prospects and the domestic economy, according to a recent survey by MDRi. The survey, which included 1,000 respondents from Singapore and Hong Kong, reveals that 45% of Singaporeans expect their financial situation to improve in 2026, compared to 34% of Hongkongers. Additionally, 70% of Singaporeans are optimistic about the national economic outlook, significantly higher than the 41% in Hong Kong.
The optimism is bolstered by Singapore’s Budget 2026, delivered on 12 February by Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong. The Budget introduces measures such as additional cash disbursements, enhanced utilities rebates, and expanded Community Development Council vouchers to alleviate cost-of-living pressures. These initiatives aim to strengthen short-term cash flow and help households manage essential expenses like groceries, transport, and energy.
Affluent individuals in Singapore are particularly optimistic, with 49% expressing financial optimism for 2026, compared to 42% in Hong Kong. This demographic’s confidence is attributed to diversified investment exposure and financial adaptability. The Budget’s focus on business dynamism and long-term growth, including corporate income tax rebates and enterprise financing support, is seen as particularly beneficial for this group.
The survey also indicates that Singaporeans are more optimistic about China’s economic prospects and the broader Asian economy than their Hong Kong counterparts. However, global uncertainty continues to affect sentiment, with both markets showing low optimism towards the world economic environment.
Simon Tye, CEO of MDRi, stated, “Singapore enters the Year of the Horse from a position of strength. Confidence in personal finances and the domestic economy remains elevated, particularly among affluent households, and Budget 2026 adds a further layer of support through cost-of-living measures and pro-business policies.”
