13 May 13:25
The results of a survey* by VTB showed that having savings helps maintain mental health for the vast majority of Russians.
The presence of a financial airbag provides emotional stability for 73% of respondents, the absence of financial obligations, including debts, for 64%. For only 3%, the financial situation does not affect mental health.
Most often, Russians worry about money due to approaching payment deadlines, for example, for rent or a loan. About half of the respondents noted that at this time they begin to think about additional income. Another 23% of respondents live in a mode of constant financial control, checking their balance in a mobile bank every day.
50% of respondents noted that for them financial savings are a safety net in case of unforeseen situations. For 20% of respondents, a monthly income is enough to solve a minor household problem, for example, a breakdown of equipment. The classic cushion – from three to six salaries, which insures against job loss – was named by 40% of respondents. But almost the same number (37%) feel complete financial comfort only if their annual earnings are equal or higher.
The process of accumulation itself also becomes a kind of deposit therapy. For 27% this is viewing accrued interest, for 20% it is activating cashback and bonuses. 33% of respondents are pleased with the very fact of transferring money to a savings account or deposit.
The majority of respondents have formed a stable habit of looking at the banking application. About half of Russians log into an online bank once or twice a week precisely to look at the amount of savings – and this, in their opinion, is enough to maintain mental health. Another 21% do this daily.
The lack of savings directly affects the behavior of Russians and the quality of their decisions. A third of respondents admitted that they become dependent on the financial situation, agree to a job they don’t like, and are afraid to change their lives when they don’t have enough finances. For 24% of respondents, the lack of savings, on the contrary, motivates them to earn more, and 16% become impulsive and succumb to small purchases on marketplaces.
“Our research confirms a global trend: financial stability is becoming an integral part of mental health. For most Russians, the presence of savings directly affects their emotional background. A deposit or savings account is not only an increase in capital, but also an accessible ritual that reduces the level of anxiety, a kind of deposit therapy,” commented Alexey Okhorzin, senior vice president, head of the VTB retail business product department.
*The survey was conducted in April-May 2026 among 1,500 residents of large cities aged 18 to 65 years. Some survey questions allowed multiple answer choices.
