MPF confidence hits 15-year high as retirement target rises
HK01 · 3 SOURCESabout 4 hours ago5 MIN
Summary
A survey commissioned by MPF consultancy GUM found Hong Kong workers enrolled in the Mandatory Provident Fund system are more confident than they have been in 15 years that MPF can support retirement. The confidence score rose to 5.1 out of 10 in 2026, up from 4.0 in 2025 and above the 2022 low of 2.8. At the same time, retirement expectations have moved higher, with the average savings target increasing to HK$6.48 million and more respondents saying they expect to need at least HK$8 million. Awareness of the first-phase “full portability” reform remains limited even though it was submitted to the Legislative Council on October 21 and is due to take effect on December 21.
Key Points
- The survey interviewed 808 Hong Kong residents aged 18 to 64 who are participating in the MPF system, with fieldwork conducted from August 13 to 15, 2026.
- Overall confidence that MPF can protect retirement life reached 5.1 points out of 10, up from 4.0 last year and the highest in 15 years.
- GUM managing director Chan Yui-lung (陳銳隆) said better market returns, rising member assets and the eMPF platform helped lift confidence.
- The average retirement savings target rose 12% year on year from HK$5.79 million to HK$6.48 million, while 28% expect to need HK$8 million or more.
- After learning about “full portability”, 57% said they support it and 39% said they would consider moving mandatory contributions into a self-selected scheme.
Why It Matters
For Hong Kong workers, the findings suggest retirement planning is becoming more active and more demanding, with higher savings goals and closer monitoring of MPF performance. The low level of understanding of “full portability” also points to a need for clearer comparison tools, investor education and employer support before members are asked to make more choices.