Almost 40% of Brits Felt Less Financially Secure in 2013 - but 60% Feel More Optimistic About 2014
(PRWEB UK) 18 December 2013 -- The latest research* from Equifax, the online credit information provider, highlights the financial pressures that have faced many families and individuals in 2013. But it also suggests a more positive picture for 2014. 39% said they felt less financially secure in 2013, citing an increase in monthly outgoings as well as uncertainty about their job and being unable to secure extra credit as the main reasons.
“The end of the year is always a good time to look back at finances and plan for the year ahead,” said Neil Munroe, External Affairs Director at Equifax. “In particular, it can provide the opportunity to analyse outgoings and think about how finances can be improved going into the New Year.
“Our research has revealed that nearly 70% of those people who felt less financially secure in 2013 saw their monthly outgoings increase. However, it also appears that people are feeling more optimistic about their finances going into the New Year.
“Over 65% of respondents said they feel more optimistic about their finances for 2014, compared to how they felt at the start of this year. Part of the reason for this could be that over 40% of the people surveyed have managed to pay off more of their debt in 2013 compared to last year. This is a very positive sign as it demonstrates that individuals are thinking about their finances in a sensible way and looking at how they can start the New Year without a financial hangover.”
The Equifax research also revealed that 40% of individuals who felt more financially secure in 2013 have been less extravagant with their spending in general during the year to put themselves in a more secure financial position.
“To ensure individuals are in the best possible position to access credit and get the most favourable deal, we always advise getting a copy of their credit report ahead of making new applications for loans.” added Neil Munroe
The Equifax Credit Report is accessible for 30 days free simply by logging onto our website. If customers do not cancel before the end of the 30 Day Free Trial, the service will continue at £9.95 per month, giving them unlimited online access to their credit information and weekly alerts on any changes to their credit file. It also includes an online dispute facility to help them correct any errors on their credit file simply and quickly.
*Equifax Financial Outlook survey- 813 responses - December 2013
About Equifax
Equifax is a global leader in consumer, commercial and workforce information solutions that provide businesses of all sizes and consumers with insight and information they can trust. Equifax organizes and assimilates data on more than 600 million consumers and 81 million businesses worldwide. The company’s significant investments in differentiated data, its expertise in advanced analytics to explore and develop new multi-source data solutions, and its leading-edge proprietary technology enable it to create and deliver unparalleled customized insights that enrich both the performance of businesses and the lives of consumers.
Clare Watson | Nakhalar Sterling | Wendy Harrison | Cecile Stearn | Ed McCambridge, Equifax, http://www.equifax.co.uk/, +44 20 8977 9132, [email protected]
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