Young generation demands more education in finances and retirement planning!

Young generation demands more education in finances and retirement planning!

The current 2025 youth study by MetallRente shows that young people in Germany are more aware of the issue of retirement provision than is widely assumed. According to the study, published on June 11, 2025, 54 percent of 17 to 27 year olds are actively saving for retirement. This highlights the relevance of the topic within this age group, as 61 percent see retirement planning as a key saving motive, even ahead of the dream of owning their own home. These results come from a representative survey of 2,500 participants, conducted every three years since 2010 to record changes in youth awareness and behavior. MetallRente reports that However, many young people have serious gaps in their knowledge.

Although 87 percent of those surveyed would like to have “economics and finance” as a school subject in order to be informed about financial issues at an early stage, only a third of young people have in-depth knowledge of retirement planning. Around 50 percent of those present stated that they inadequately understood the risks of individual stocks and the statutory pension insurance system. Confidence in pension policy has fallen: only 26 percent of young people expect positive developments in pension provision, while three years previously 47 percent expressed this confidence.

Fear of poverty in old age and new demands

Young people are not only studying the theoretical aspects of their retirement planning, but are also showing clear concern about their financial security in old age. 75 percent of those surveyed expressed fears of poverty in old age, with women in particular being severely affected. The need for security is reflected in the results: 95 percent value safe investments, while 92 percent expect a good return on their retirement savings. Another important finding is that 96 percent of young people demand lifelong withdrawals from their retirement savings.

The results of the study also show a trend towards modern forms of investment: 62 percent rely on stocks and funds for their private provision, while classic products are increasingly losing importance. This development could have a significant impact on future retirement planning offerings, as solid financial education and a better understanding of risk and return are essential. Surprisingly, however, only 54 percent of those surveyed understand the basic connections between risk and return.

A dialogue for the future

In order to better understand the demands and needs of the young generation and to incorporate them into political discussions, MetallRente is planning dialogue events. These events are intended to provide space for the exchange of youth demands. Another result of the survey is that 91 percent of respondents demand understandable information about retirement planning, with 75 percent also wanting independent sources of information. These findings illustrate how important it is to promote financial education in society and to adequately support young people in order to be prepared for the challenges of the future.

MetallRente, which was founded in 2001, offers company and private pension plans. The ongoing studies and surveys are essential in order to keep an eye on the development and demands of the young generation in terms of retirement provision and to take appropriate measures. Insurance messenger reports that The demand for better financial education and information among 17 to 27 year olds remains unbroken.