Brits are suffering from the scourge of ‘Lazy Money’, according to new research by Wise, the international money account.
A Censuswide poll of 2,000 UK adults nationwide found that only 39% of us are happy with the return our money is making. This is unsurprising, given so much money is being allowed to rest: 30% of us hold the majority of our savings in current accounts that pay little-to-no return.
There is a fundamental problem, we work hard for our money - but allow the money itself to lazily earn low returns. This is particularly important during a time of high inflation and a cost of living crisis, with 37% finding it harder to save and 26% noticing the impact of inflation on their money.
So, why is so much money being given such an easy life? Understandably, many of us find finance’s world of jargon, caveats, and terms and conditions confusing and hard to navigate.
Almost one-third (31%) of us think the language in financial documents and disclosures could be made simpler. Half (51%) feel nervous about investing, with 43% saying it could be made simpler and easier to understand. While 29% think banks could do more to shine light on their savings rates, only 16% trust their bank to offer a fair rate.
But there’s another problem. Between work, family dramas and walking the dog, we’re too tired to make sense of the confusing world of finance. Just 36% of us make money decisions when we’re not tired. Young people are especially afflicted, with only 21% of 16-24 year olds not tired when making money decisions.
To end Lazy Money once and for all, Wise has partnered with Kia Commodore, a personal finance expert. Kia has not only launched a guide to make money management simple - but also a limited edition range of Wise sleepwear, so Brits can relax while their savings grow and their money works.
The sleepwear has been designed by celebrated sustainable designer Leticia Credidio and features nightgowns, kimonos and pyjamas. Eagle-eyed followers can win a set via Wise’s social channels, and a limited number are available to buy.
Kia said: “It’s wrong that we work so hard yet our money is allowed to be so lazy. Think about how you want to save, and perhaps invest, your money. Saving is easiest when it becomes a habit. Put money away consistently but at a frequency that works for you.
“You can even find an ‘accountability partner’, someone who saves with you and helps keep you on track and accountable. However you save, it’s also vital to think about how your money is being held.
“Let’s put our money to work - and allow ourselves to relax.”
Wise allows investors to easily put their money to work, offering two investment options:
Wise Stocks, which invests in an index tracking fund that tracks stock markets
And Wise Interest, which invests in a fund holding government-guaranteed assets and closely tracks the Central Bank interest rate - and currently pays a variable rate of 4.95%* on GBP balances
Wise’s investment features are particularly useful for people who manage multiple currencies. Wise allows instant access and for invested money to be withdrawn and converted into 40 currencies, with no hidden fees.
Shafie Ali, Product Lead, Wise, said: “At Wise, we believe that your money is yours, not ours. That’s why we aim to make investing and saving simple. For those looking to invest, Wise Assets is a great option. We charge only a small, transparent fee for investing with us, and we make doing so as simple and convenient as possible. Interest is great for those who want a consistent, solid return while Central Bank rates are high, while Stocks more closely matches international markets’ performance.
“What’s clear is that you should be relaxing, not your money. It’s time to end Lazy Money.”