Rethinking financial resilience on World Savings Day
Thought leadership
Saving money has become more complex in today’s world, with instant gratification, rising living costs and intricate financial systems making it easy to feel overwhelmed. As world-renowned author Tony Robbins notes, consistency transforms average into excellence, a principle that applies perfectly to saving. As we mark World Savings Day on 31 October, it is a timely reminder that saving remains one of the most effective ways to build personal freedom, financial resilience and drive social progress. This year’s theme, “Money on Your Mind,” encourages us to see saving as a path to security and independence. What does saving mean today? Traditionally, saving meant setting aside some of your income for emergencies, a simple habit. Today, it is a strategic process involving emergency funds, retirement planning, investing and using digital micro-savings tools. Saving is no longer just about discipline but designing systems that make it easy, inclusive, and impactful.
For instance, Bank Windhoek encourages customers to use its cost-effective self-service and digital channels to manage their banking needs conveniently. Another example, the Financial
Literacy Initiative’s “RetireWise” booklet emphasises the importance of early retirement planning, not just a decade before retirement. Modern savers face challenges like debt, lifestyle inflation, economic uncertainty, and the lure of easy credit. Saving is about empowerment, taking charge of your financial future, rather than reacting to circumstances.
Why savings matter more than ever
Recent years have shown how economic shocks, such as pandemics, global conflict, and inflation, can disrupt lives. Those with savings recover faster. Savings are not just a safety net but a launchpad for education, home ownership, entrepreneurship, and dignified retirement. For companies, savings fuel innovation and growth. For economies, they mean stability and long-term prosperity. In essence, saving is the foundation of independence and resilience.
The role of banks and technology
Financial inclusion is crucial for building a savings culture. Digital banking and fintech, such as mobile wallets, micro-investment platforms, and automated savings tools, make saving more accessible. However, access alone is not enough. Financial institutions must promote literacy, transparency, and trust, helping people understand the “why” and “how” of saving. Technology simplifies saving, but education gives it meaning. For example, Bank Windhoek consistently shares financial literacy information on its digital platforms, with its customers and the broader public.
Building a culture of saving
World Savings Day is about valuing tomorrow as much as today. This mindset should start early, in schools, homes and workplaces. Saving prepares us for the unexpected, helps us invest in our dreams, and creates a legacy of stability for future generations. Common practical saving tips As the year ends and expenses rise, with events such as Black Friday, Christmas, and
New Year’s coming up, it is easy to feel financial pressure. World Savings Day is the perfect time to reflect. Here are some actionable tips:
• Budget: Track income and expenses and set clear savings goals.
• Start small: Even saving N$100 regularly adds up. The key is to start and keep going.
• Eliminate expenses: Review subscriptions and avoid impulse buys and unnecessary costs.
• Use bonuses wisely: If you expect a year-end bonus, consider allocating it to major upcoming expenses to reduce stress in the new year.
• Automate your savings: Set up automatic transfers to make saving effortless.
• Build strong habits: Aim to save enough to cover at least three months’ expenses.
• Leverage Repo Rate reductions: If interest rates drop, save some extra disposable income.
World Savings Day has been celebrated since 1924, and its message remains relevant: saving is essential for personal and collective well-being. Start small, stay consistent and
watch your financial resilience grow.