64% of Americans Plan Financial Goals for 2026

As the calendar turns to 2026, a growing number of Americans are prioritizing financial resolutions amid ongoing concerns about inflation, rising prices and personal budget strains. A recent Fidelity Investments study shows 64 percent of respondents planning such goals, up from 56 percent the previous year, with many focusing on immediate needs like emergency funds and debt reduction.

The survey highlights consistent top priorities: 44 percent aim to save more money, 36 percent seek to pay down debt, and 30 percent plan to curb spending. These short-term objectives reflect a broader trend, as noted by Leanna Devinney, a market leader at Fidelity. "This was the second year in a row where Americans were prioritizing more of those short-term savings goals like building up an emergency fund or paying down debt versus longer-term goals," she said. Economic volatility in 2025, including market swings and persistent inflation, contributed to this shift, with nearly three-quarters of Americans reporting a financial setback last year, such as unexpected expenses.

Stress over finances remains high, with 55 percent feeling overwhelmed and 31 percent describing their money management as...