Canadians are saving money in 2024 amidst economic uncertainty
Fears over a potential recession have resulted in Canadians spending remarkably less, especially throughout the holiday season
With the end of the holiday season, many Canadians have found their wallets significantly lighter. Individuals struggled to meet the expectations of maintaining traditional festivities, like purchasing gifts and preparing special meals, for family and friends.
“I think people really feel that financial pressure to maintain the level of tradition, or the level of comfort, or the level of entertainment that they have been used to up to this point,” said Janet Music, a research associate at Dalhousie University’s Agri-Food Analytics Lab. “There’s a real emotional connection we have to our traditions and what we think of when we think of this time of year, what we have on the table and what that means, and that can be very pricey.”
As Canadians bid farewell to 2023, a palpable air of caution enveloped the nation, casting a shadow on the usual festivities. Fueled by apprehensions over a potential recession, the dawn of the new year brought with it a collective resolve to cut back on spending. In efforts to safeguard their financial well-being, Canadians are adopting a more frugal approach, re-evaluating their expenditure, and placing a renewed emphasis on savings.
The economic landscape of 2023 was characterized by uncertainty, prompting discernible changes in spending habits among Canadians. The fear of a declining economy and concerns about job security contributed to a noticeable shift toward more cautious financial behaviours. As a result, many opted to scale back on non-essential expenditure, redirecting funds towards essentials and savings.
The holiday season, traditionally marked by festive cheer and generous spending, saw a considerable shift in consumer behaviour. Lavish gifts and extravagant gatherings took a backseat as Canadians across the country opted for more modest modes of celebration. Retailers reported a significant decline in holiday sales compared to previous years, reflecting the broader trend of restrained spending.
At least 60 per cent of Canadians have re-evaluated their spending in December 2023. The majority of shoppers (27 per cent) planned to spend less this year, while 26 per cent planned to spend the same as, not more than, they did last year.
The narrative of reduced spending extends beyond mere caution—it is rooted in a fundamental shift towards personal economic conservation. Canadians are increasingly diverting their disposable incomes toward building emergency funds and bolstering savings accounts. This trend reflects a growing awareness of the need for financial preparedness, the volatile nature of the global economy, and its potential impact on personal finances.
The prospect of an impending recession has intensified discussions on effective strategies to weather economic challenges. Financial advisors are advocating for a comprehensive approach that includes thoroughly reviewing non-essential expenses, prioritizing debt repayment, and exploring investment opportunities that align with a conservative risk appetite.
The emphasis on savings is not just a short-term reaction to economic uncertainty but a strategic response to the evolving financial climate. Canadians are recognizing the value of having a robust financial safety net to weather unforeseen circumstances, whether it be a job loss, emergency expenses, or the broader impacts of a recession.
As Canadians traverse the landscape of 2024, the question remains: will the fears of a recession materialize, or will the nation’s proactive financial approach mitigate the potential impact? These options underscore the importance of continued vigilance and adaptability in the face of economic fluctuations.
Financial institutions are responding to the changing dynamics by offering resources and guidance to help Canadians navigate these uncertain times. Webinars, workshops, and online resources on budgeting, saving, and investing have become more accessible, empowering individuals to make informed financial decisions.
As Canadians navigate the intricate web of economic uncertainties, the year 2024 may become a turning point in the nation’s financial landscape. The lessons learned from adapting to changing circumstances and embracing a more mindful approach to spending and saving may leave a lasting imprint on the way individuals, businesses, and the government approach economic challenges in the years to come.
Only time will reveal the true impact of these shifts but, for now, Canadians are demonstrating resilience and resourcefulness in the face of an uncertain future.
Associate News Editor (Volume 50) — Karine is currently completing her bachelor’s degree specializing in Digital Enterprise Management at UTM. She has been involved with The Medium since 2022 as a contributor. She hopes to contribute to society's efforts to provide authentic and factual journalistic media to educate her readers during her time at The Medium. Her goal is to take her interest in ongoing research within the business and technology field and explore ways to share it with others through this platform. In her spare time, she enjoys going on walks, FaceTiming her family, and painting sunsets with her friends. Moreover, she passionately pursues the chase of the Aurora Borealis, seeking to experience and capture the breathtaking beauty of these natural light displays. You can connect with her on LinkedIn.