MetLife FcFW Microsite

The MetLife Future Insights Report

Understanding and uncovering macro themes that will shape the key forces driving future consumer behavior.

Continue Reading

Methodology

Data was collected via an online survey of 18,506 respondents in 12 countries (about 1500 per country) in January 2023.

Australia Bangladesh Brazil Chile China India Japan South Korea Mexico Turkey UK US

A Need for a Confident Future

Collective Aspiration for Security and Stability

Wellbeing as a Business Imperative

Longevity and the Redefinition of Life Stages

A Need for a Confident Future

Across the globe, there’s a climate of insecurity and instability affecting consumers, coupled with a desire for a more prosperous future. In this study, we’ll explore three paths to achieving an optimized world. First, we’ll uncover ways to shift away from a scarcity mindset. Next, we’ll explore boosting consumer well-being to drive positive societal change. And finally, we’ll navigate longevity amidst uncertainty.

Anticipation of More Challenges Before Progress

If the world continues as it has been over the last few years (i.e., nothing changes), which of the following most closely aligns with your perspective? By 2025, the following will get... ?

* e.g., everyone has access to the same opportunities

Inadequate Resources Perceived as Barrier to Addressing these Challenges

Our society is not well equipped to handle the multiple crises we're facing (e.g., economic inequality, climate change, pandemics).

71%

AGREE

Unclear Vision of Next Decade

A CALL FOR LEADERS WHO THINK IN DECADES

We need more leaders who have a long-term vision (i.e., thinking about the next 20 years rather than operating quarter to quarter or election cycle to election cycle, etc.)

85%

AGREE

Collective Aspiration for Security and Stability

In a world currently experiencing multiple challenges, consumers’ basic safety and sense of security have declined. In response to these challenges, consumers are adapting to rebuild their sense of security. The majority have made contingency plans, such as obtaining a backup passport or visa and insurance to cover the costs of relocating. In addition to personal actions taken to reinforce safety and security, consumers have heightened expectations for companies to make long-term commitments in a collective effort to realign priorities to set the course for a secure and stable future.

A Decline in Foundational Security and Well-Being Across All Dimensions

When thinking about the sense of the people around you (e.g., friends, family, local community, etc.), how have things changed over the past three years?

61%

OF GEN Z AGREE GLOBALLY

People in my area may need to relocate due to issues in their environment (e.g., climate change, geopolitical conflict, crime, etc.) in the next 20 years.

Universal Concern Over the Need for Relocation

When do you think people in your area may need to relocate due to issues in your environment (e.g., climate change, geopolitical conflict, crime, etc.)?

PERCENT WHO SELECTED "IN THE NEXT 20 YEARS"

Backup Plans in Response to Safety Concerns

How much do you agree or disagree with the following statement?

Many people I know are creating backup plans, in case life in their community/country gets worse

PERCENT WHO AGREE

What actions have you taken or would you take to further ensure your safety?

PERCENT WHO SELECTED HAVE DONE/WOULD DO

Prioritizing Long-Term Commitments to Strengthen Security

Do the following make you feel less or more secure? By "secure," we mean safe, stable and protected from harm or negative impact.

Wellbeing as a Business Imperative

Many consumers believe society is falling short in meeting their well-being needs. In looking toward the future, they expect corporations to play an increasing role in positively impacting employee well-being. As technology continues to advance, it will also be a key contributor in boosting consumer well-being. Consumers anticipate using technology to guide and monitor their behaviors to optimize health. Furthermore, there is strong interest in using precision medicine and the majority of consumers would like to see health insurance providers cover associated costs.

Gap in Society's Ability to Support Well-Being

Percent who agree

DIFFERENCE

21%

2035 Vision: Business Will Bridge Gaps & Drive Impact

By 2035, businesses will be able to maximize both profit and positive impact on the communities in which they operate.

72%

agree

Leveraging Technology to Attain Balance

How interested are you in using advanced technology (e.g., metaverse, AI, bots, etc.) to do the following?

PERCENT INTERESTED IN USING AI TO:

* e.g., mental, physical, social, financial, emotional, etc.

** e.g., shut off email after work hours, set a time each night to turn off screens/technology before sleeping, etc.

Well-Being Assurance: The Appeal of Precision Medicine and Enhanced Insurance Protection

How much do you agree or disagree with the following statements about precision medicine?

PERCENT WHO AGREE

Longevity and the Redefinition of Life Stages

Despite ongoing societal challenges, there is prevailing optimism for personal longevity as advancements in medicine enable consumers to reimagine a future richer in multifaceted experiences marked by lifelong learning and exploration of multiple careers. The shift toward longer lifespans transforms our traditional linear definition of life stages: education, followed by work and retirement. Corporations can help consumers navigate the path to prosperity by supporting employees with continuing education, flexible career paths, and financial tools to achieve retirement savings goals.

Balancing Future Fears with Longevity Hopes

How much do you agree or disagree with the following statement?

I hope to live to be over 100

PERCENT WHO AGREE

TECHNOLOGY IS A BRIDGE TO LONGEVITY

Are you interested in using advanced technology (e.g., metaverse, AI, bots, etc.) to live longer?

72%

ARE INTERESTED

Rethinking Milestones and Life Stages

How much do you agree or disagree with the following statements?

PERCENT WHO AGREE

The Importance of Risk-Free Career Breaks

Society would be healthier if people could take breaks during their work life to upskill, reflect, or care for family without worrying about it hurting their career prospects.

86%

Agree

Embracing Flexibility & Upskilling For Healthier Lives

If you knew you were going to work until you were 75 years old, how interested are you in the following opportunities...?

PERCENT WHO AGREE

* e.g., so I can advance my career, so I can become more knowledgeable, etc.

For further information please contact: Steven Karunphand steven.karunphand@metlife.com