Mumbai, October 28, 2026: Affluent and high-net-worth Indians are increasingly managing several life stages at once, including career reinvention, major purchases, supporting future generations and retirement planning, according to a new HSBC survey conducted in partnership with Ipsos Asia Limited.
The research, which surveyed 9,993 affluent and high-net-worth investors across 10 markets—including 1,115 respondents in India—found that Indian investors are juggling more life stages than their counterparts elsewhere. Among Indian respondents, 63% reported career reinvention, 51% were making major life purchases, 46% were supporting the next generation, and 41% were focused on retirement planning.
Financial strategies adapt to complexity
With longer and more complex lives, 96% of Indian investors said they have reconsidered their financial plans, and 60% are preparing for a non-linear future. Most respondents (89%) seek wealth solutions that can address multiple needs, while 84% want expert support to navigate these complexities. Flexible financial strategies (39%), access to liquidity without compromising long-term growth (36%), and advisers who understand non-linear planning (36%) were cited as top priorities.
Sandeep Batra, Head – International Wealth and Premier Banking, HSBC India, said families require flexible plans that evolve with changing circumstances, while also preparing the next generation to manage wealth effectively.
Retirement and legacy planning trends
The survey found that affluent Indians now estimate they will need US$0.42 million for retirement, a 6% increase from 2025, but have only saved 48% of that amount on average. Retirement is increasingly seen as a gradual transition, with 78% expecting to leave work flexibly or in stages. Portfolio and encore careers appeal to 34% of respondents, while 22% prefer a traditional retirement.
Legacy planning is also evolving. While 41% of investors expect to leave a legacy and 34% expect to receive one—typically at age 51—priorities differ across generations. While 69% of benefactors focus on providing a home or safety net, Gen Z (65%) and Millennials (62%) are more likely to use inheritance for travel, career breaks, or passion projects.
Focus on education and human capital
Indian families are increasingly prioritising the next generation’s independence and resilience. The survey found that 81% of investors support their children’s or grandchildren’s personal growth, 71% fund formal education and skills, and 65% back career or entrepreneurial development. When it comes to inheritance, 87% prioritise passing on education, financial literacy and other forms of human capital, compared to 64% who focus on foundational assets such as a home deposit. Nearly half (49%) said their main goal is to equip heirs for full financial independence.
HSBC is a global banking and financial services organisation with a presence in India and other major markets worldwide.
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