Good morning! Here’s your Morning Briefing for Wednesday, May 13, 2026.
Retirement Worries for Millions in the UK
A recent report from Scottish Widows reveals that about 12.2 million people in the UK, or one-third of adults, are at risk of facing poverty during retirement. But there’s a silver lining: this number has dropped from 15.3 million last year. More individuals are saving outside of pensions, and recent cuts in energy costs have made it easier for many to reach the minimum retirement lifestyle standard.
Investing Awareness Campaign
Last month, a new advertising campaign launched, aiming to encourage more people to invest their savings. Supported by The Investment Association, it targets the 44% of savers who want to learn about investing but feel unsure. While the campaign has potential, some experts, like Mike Barrett from the lang cat, question whether this effort should be aimed at a different audience.
Grandparents and Childcare Costs
Many grandparents are putting their own spending and retirement plans on hold to help with childcare. A study by Creditspring reveals some striking statistics: 70% of grandparents say childcare costs have risen in the past year, and 44% have cut back on their own expenses to help their families. Surprisingly, 61% feel guilty saying no when asked to care for grandkids. This highlights a growing issue around the rising cost of childcare in the UK, prompting calls for more fair sharing of these costs among families.
Key Statistics:
- 70% say childcare feels more expensive compared to last year.
- 44% have reduced their spending to care for grandchildren.
- 75% believe grandparents should help with childcare for free if they can.
- 17% are likely to turn down requests due to rising expenses.
Source: Creditspring
Latest in Finance and Investment
Fidelity International has introduced two new global equity funds, expanding opportunities for investors. The FF Global Smaller Companies fund targets long-term growth in small-cap markets, while the FF Global Founders fund focuses on companies led by founders who remain involved in management.
P1 Investment Management has also made news by hiring Joanne Benson and Emma Clarke, both bringing extensive experience to strengthen their team.
Global Finance Updates
In other news, Japan is seeing a wave of regional bank mergers that could create a $74 billion lender. Meanwhile, JPMorgan is set to name new co-heads for investment banking, and diplomatic tensions continue to influence global markets.
Did You Know?
Debate is heating up again over the Pension Protection Fund’s £14 billion reserves. The Society of Pension Professionals argues that these funds could be used to support members and help with wider pension reforms, moving beyond just serving as a safety net for failing schemes.
Momodou Musa Touray covers this intriguing discussion in detail.
