Heightened unrest across households as many admit to feeling insecure about finances
An overwhelming number of Canadians are battling financial stress and low confidence in these uncertain times.
According to an Advocis member poll for Financial Literacy Month 2025, 77% of advisors say that more than one in four of their clients have reported increased financial anxiety or uncertainty in the last six months, citing factors including inflation, market swings and global economic tensions.
More than 90% of respondents say Canadians rarely, or only occasionally, have frank discussions about money with friends, family or financial professionals and just 1.5% of advisors believe their clients are “very confident” about their financial resilience, while 34% say clients are “not confident” at all.
“These findings point to a troubling disconnect between how Canadians feel about their finances and the steps they’re taking to protect themselves,” says Kelly Gorman, president and CEO of Advocis. “In a time when inflation, high interest rates, and economic uncertainty dominate our daily lives, financial confidence and resilience have never been more important, and that’s where professional advice makes all the difference.”
In response to this climate, Advocis is reviving its national campaign for Financial Literacy Month, which is celebrating its 15th year, with the theme ‘Building Financial Resilience: Confidence in Uncertain Times.’
The campaign emphasises learning to navigate the impact of inflation, interest-rate shifts and trade uncertainty; building emergency savings and managing debt; and staying focused on long-term goals even amid turbulence.
“Financial resilience means more than just understanding money, it’s about being ready for whatever comes next,” Gorman adds. “By working with a credentialed financial advisor or financial planner who belongs to a professional association like Advocis, Canadians can build the confidence, structure, and strategies they need to stay steady through uncertainty.”
The association is urging Canadians to engage trusted financial professionals, revisit their plans and cultivate habits that support long-term growth and stability, despite the unpredictability ahead.
