BRINGING YOU OUR RESEARCH, ANALYSIS, AND INSIGHTS INTO THE WORLD OF FINANCIAL INCLUSION.
In the first-quarter results of Operation HOPE’s most comprehensive, nationwide survey to date – The HOPE Insider – more than 3,500 clients shared their sentiments on housing, debt, small business, work, inflation, and general economic conditions. Our results reflect what our clients are feeling about the impact of inflation, particularly with food and housing. Below is a summary of our key findings.
here is what we found
- Impact of inflation increasingly continues to be felt – forcing a reliance on savings and credit
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- As a result of inflation, 43% of respondents say the greatest impact has been the inability to save money or plan for the future, while 23% have had to cut back on spending.
- 14% percent have had to take on additional work.
- 90% have seen a change in their financial wellbeing:
More than three-fourths of participants are feeling “VERY concerned” about the impact of inflation (77%), and 95% are concerned overall. This correlates with the U.S. Census’ Household Pulse Survey during the first quarter of 2024: 83% of Americans experienced price increases in the areas where they live and shop.
Where clients are feeling the impacts of inflation the most
- Debt still drives uncertainty
Three-quarters of participants indicated they are “VERY concerned” about their current levels of debt, referencing higher interest rates, inflation, economic instability, and personal financial strain (77% of total sample – a 10% increase from last quarter). Credit card debt remains the biggest financial burden (36%), followed by student loans (15%), mortgages (14%) and auto loans (11%).
- Affordable housing remains elusive
Affordable housing is respondents’ biggest source of worry for 2024 (32%). In fact, over two-thirds are “VERY concerned” about the current cost of housing in their community (67%) – this is an 11% jump from last quarter (56%). Close to half (43%) considered purchasing a home last year, but found it unaffordable.
- Breaking it down
- Hope prevails, with guidance
Operation HOPE clients remain optimistic that their financial wellbeing will increase over the next year – 79% overall – a reflection of their access to Operation HOPE resources, tools, and coaching.
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- Over three-fourths say their business/career situations are looking optimistic for 2024 (84%).
- 62% of participants are hopeful that business growth in their community will increase.
- Over half are hopeful in AI/technology will make their lives easier over the next year (58%).
in their own words
