Global Financial Inclusion Index From Principal® Reaches Five-Year High; Fewer People Feel the Benefit

Deanna Strable, President, chair, and Chief Executive Officer of Principal Financial Group

“Five years of the Index have given us a clearer picture of where financial inclusion is improving and where more work is needed. Since this research began in 2022, financial inclusion has improved across the world. Financial systems have modernized, governments have expanded support, and employers continue to play an important role in helping people build greater financial security.”

Pushpin Singh, Managing economist at the Centre for Economics and Business Research

“The recovery in financial inclusion this year is clear, both in the rising overall global score and in the scale of this year’s changes. The 2026 results show genuine momentum, while also pointing to a widening divergence between developed markets, where progress is slowing, and developing economies, where it is accelerating.”

Deanna Strable, President, chair, and Chief Executive Officer of Principal Financial Group

“The research shows that simply improving access to financial tools, services, and products is not enough. One of the most revealing findings this year is people do not necessarily feel that progress in their day-to-day lives, as improvements in financial inclusion are not keeping pace with rising expectations from populations facing increased cost of living pressures. Meaningful change is measured by whether people understand their options and use the resources available to them to make better financial decisions. The focus must now be on translating progress into helping people feel more confident about their financial futures.”

Amy Friedrich, President, Benefits and Protection at Principal Financial Group

“As employers are asked to do more with limited resources, AI offers an opportunity to help employees better understand and engage with the benefits and financial resources already available to them. Because the workplace continues to play a vital role in advancing financial well-being, employers need scalable ways to deliver meaningful support. When used thoughtfully and alongside human guidance, AI can help personalize that support, strengthen employee engagement, and make financial resources more relevant and accessible.”