New polling from Ipsos MORI finds a drop in the number of people globally that believe all recommended vaccines are beneficial to them and their families. Three quarters (75%) of Britons agree recommended vaccines are beneficial compared to 83% in 2019. In Italy and the US there is an even bigger downturn, with Italy down 12 percentage points to 65% and the US down 17 percentage points to 63% agreement. France continues to have low levels of support for vaccines, now down to 54% from 63% last year.

faith that vaccines are benefiecial to onself or ones family has dropped - Ipsos MORI

Brazil and China remain stable, with 80% of Brazilians agreeing in the benefits of vaccines (unchanged from 2019) and 56% of Chinese agreeing, up just 2 percentage points.

Despite growing scepticism of vaccines, people remain positive about the impact science will have on our lives. There has been an increase in people that think eventually all medical conditions and diseases will be curable, across all seven countries surveyed.

Eventually all medical conditions and diseases will be curable” - % agree - Ipsos MORI

Ben Page, CEO Ipsos MORI, said:

Our latest Global Trends findings illustrate how the rush to produce a vaccine, and debate about its potential effectiveness, seems to have increased vaccine hesitancy around the world over the last year, but especially in the United States. This growing unease about the benefits of vaccines will undoubtedly be a challenge for governments around the world as they work to get the pandemic under control. Despite this, we should all take hope from the great news that a potential vaccine is on its way in 2021, for those of us that need and want it.

(Ipsos MORI)

November 10, 2020

Source: https://www.ipsos.com/ipsos-mori/en-uk/faith-benefits-vaccines-drops-across-globe

SUMMARY OF POLLS

ASIA

(India)

Most urban Indian women feel unsafe while walking alone at night

In YouGov’s latest survey, we asked women to indicate how often they felt unsafe in 19 different scenarios from daily lives. Most urban Indian women (52%) said they always or often felt unsafe while walking alone at night. 26% feel anxious while walking in certain neighbourhoods or when walking with a friend, partner or family member at night (26% each), while 18% feel insecure walking alone even during the day time. (YouGov)

November 11, 2020

(Thailand)

Thailand has the most gamers in ASEAN, PS4 console of choice

Latest data from YouGov’s Gaming and esports: The next generation white paper provides an analysis of the global video games and esports landscape across 24 markets. YouGov Asia Pacific examines the gaming behaviours across six ASEAN nations – Singapore, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia, to see how gamers vary across these neighbouring countries. (YouGov)

October 29, 2020

MENA

(UAE)

More than a fourth of UAE residents are unwilling to travel until a Covid cure is available

YouGov’s latest survey reveals 27% of UAE residents are unwilling to travel anywhere until a cure for Covid-19 is available. Women were more likely to say this as compared to men (32% vs 25%). The fear of the pandemic seems to be universal among the different age groups; with both young adults aged between 18-24 years, as well as those aged 45+ years showing similar levels of apprehension about travelling during the pandemic (35% and 33%, respectively). (YouGov)

November 11, 2020

EUROPE

(France)

Is Black Friday abandoned in favor of Green Friday?

According to a study carried out for L'Internaute , 62% of 18-34 year olds have a good image of Black Friday (against 47% of the national population). Nearly 2 in 3 Millennials (65%) intend to make purchases on the internet this year (compared to 44% of the national population). Which e-commerce sites will be favored by 18-34 year olds? Amazon is largely ahead (68%), followed by Sephora (34%), La Fnac (31%), Zalando (29%) and Cdisount (27%). (YouGov)

November 05, 2020

(Germany)

Worries about Christmas and New Year's Eve plans in the Corona year are great

There are only a few weeks left until the run-up to Christmas, that part of the year in which many people prepare, look forward to and plan the days around Christmas and New Year's Eve. But this year everything is different due to the corona pandemic: It is not clear whether the holidays can take place as planned. YouGov, together with Statista, asked what the Germans' Christmas and New Year's plans for this year are and how concerned they are that these plans may not take place. (YouGov)

November 11, 2020

(Italy)

The Cashless plan convinces, 6 out of 10 prefer cards to cash

Thanks to the pandemic, the use of electronic payments, which inevitably increased during the lockdown, continued to grow even after the opening , becoming the preferred payment method for 6 out of 10 people (5 out of 10 in 2019% ). At the same time, reserves decrease when the amount to be paid is small: if last year 40% of Italians declared that they would use the card for any amount, no matter how low , this year the percentage rises significantly by 7 points (47%). (YouGov)

October 30, 2020

(UK)

Pandemic particularly impacts personal finances of Brits from BAME backgrounds

The coronavirus crisis has more greatly impacted the personal financial situations of Britons from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds than those of White people, new figures from YouGov’s Debt Tracker suggest. In every financial circumstance asked about, people from a BAME background were more likely than White respondents to have been negatively affected. (YouGov)

November 09, 2020

(UK)

How important is a degree when looking for a new job?

With the economy suffering due to COVID-19, many adults find themselves back on the job market – and an uncertain future lies ahead for many young people who might be entering it for the first time. Overall, approaching two fifths (39%) of businesses say that generally speaking, applicants having a degree is important when they hire for a new position, while 14% say it is very important. (YouGov)

November 09, 2020

(UK)

Half of Britons wouldn’t mind if restrictions are still in place over the Christmas period

With less than two months until Christmas, Brits’ social calendars would usually be filling up with festive getaways and events. However, due to the uncertainty of knowing which coronavirus restrictions will be implemented in December, for many these plans are up in the air. But new YouGov data shows that many people will not actually be bothered by the disruption. (YouGov)

November 06, 2020

(UK)

Do Britons want Christmas adverts to acknowledge COVID-19?

Many major brands will be releasing their Christmas advertising campaigns in coming weeks. The release of these big-budget adverts has become part of the festive tradition, with brands competing each year to produce the nation’s favourite. But this year, with a global pandemic still rumbling on, marketing teams may be wondering how to best approach it. Overall, half (53%) of Britons think that brands should acknowledge the events of the COVID-19 pandemic in their Christmas adverts, compared to a quarter (25%) who would prefer adverts not to mention the pandemic at all. (YouGov)

November 04, 2020

NORTH AMERICA

Economic Stimulus Could Boost U.S. Holiday Spending

Recent findings from the new Franklin Templeton-Gallup Economics of Recovery Study indicate that the strength of the holiday sales season could be aided by a new round of federal stimulus checks before the end of the year. Specifically, Americans are more likely to say they will spend less (37%) rather than more (16%) this holiday season than last year when asked to assume there will be no additional government stimulus payment. (Gallup USA)

November 12, 2020

Investors With Advisers More Confident Amid COVID-19

November 12, 2020

2020 election reveals two broad voting coalitions fundamentally at odds

Even before all the ballots are tallied, Americans appear to have voted in the 2020 presidential election at their highest rate in 120 years. Democrat Joe Biden has amassed more than 74 million votes as of Nov. 6, while Republican Donald Trump has received nearly 70 million – already the most and second-most in U.S. history. But if one early takeaway from the election is historic voter participation, another may be the continuing political polarization that has come to define the United States. (PEW)

November 06, 2020

After surging in 2019, migrant apprehensions at U.S.-Mexico border fell sharply in fiscal 2020

Border Patrol agents apprehended about half as many migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border in fiscal 2020 as they did the year before, according to newly released federal data. The sharp drop in the number of apprehended migrants follows a virtual shutdown of the border and new restrictions in the way asylum cases are handled in response to the coronavirus outbreak. Below is a closer look at the shifting dynamics at the southwestern border, based on the new numbers from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the federal agency tasked with patrolling the border. (PEW)

November 04, 2020

The pace of Boomer retirements has accelerated in the past year

Millions of Baby Boomers retire each year from the U.S. labor force. But in the past year the number of retired Boomers increased more than in prior years, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of monthly labor force data. The recent increase in the share of Boomers who are retired is more pronounced among Hispanic and Asian American Boomers and those residing in the Northeast. (PEW)

November 09, 2020

AUSTRALIA

Mental Health conditions Anxiety and Depression increased rapidly during lockdown

New data from Roy Morgan shows over 8.5 million Australians aged 14+ (40.5%) reported suffering from a Mental Health condition during the nation-wide lockdown in the June quarter 2020, up from 7.7 million (37.7%) in the March quarter 2020 – an increase of around 800,000. Anxiety was the most common Mental Health condition experienced by 5.5 million Australians (26.3%) in the lockdown period, up sharply by over 1.1 million Australians from the 4.4 million (20.9%) reporting suffering from anxiety in the pre COVID-19 period during the March quarter. (Roy Morgan)

November 10, 2020

MULTICOUNTRY STUDIES

Middle Eastern countries rank among the leading video game streaming markets in the world

The Middle East is a fast-growing gaming market, evolving from casual gaming to virtual reality games and competitive sports. With a growing community of active gamers and a high internet penetration, Gaming & Esports industry in MENA is likely to witness a boom in the future. YouGov’s new white paper, titled ‘Gaming and Esports: The Next Generation’, provides an analysis of the global video games and esports landscape across 24 markets. (YouGov)

November 02, 2020

Faith in the benefits of vaccines drops across the globe

November 10, 2020

ASIA

663-43-01/Poll

Most urban Indian women feel unsafe while walking alone at night

More than half females have had an unsafe experience in the past, yet only some have taken action against it

Nearly half the surveyed women (48%) felt unsafe getting a taxi or ride share alone at night (48%) or while changing clothes at public recreational centres like swimming pools or gym (47%).

Many (36%) felt unsafe being alone with a technician at home, working late hours in office alone or with a few colleagues (35% each) or going on a first date with a male they met online (33%).

Fear is comparatively lower when exercising alone in an outdoor space (25%), driving a car by themselves (20%) or when going alone to a local market (20%).

In order to deal with these fears, most women (52%) take measures on a regular basis to ensure their personal safety. 33% take precautions sometimes and only 7% do not take any measures at all.

Keeping constant awareness of their surroundings (60%) and avoiding interactions with strangers (59%) are the most widely taken precautions in order to maintain safety.

Apart from these, more than half avoid being out in the night alone (56%), keep family or friends informed about their whereabouts (52%) or keep emergency numbers on speed dial (51%) in order to be safe.

The fear has forced some women to go a step further and make changes such as, dress a certain way (40%), carry safety equipment such as pepper spray, etc. along with them (40%) or avoid drinking a lot when out with friends (34%).

According to the survey, seven in ten women in India feel crime against women has increased in the past year. One in five (20%) feel it is the same as last year and only 9% think it has decreased in the last one year.

Talking about themselves, more than half women in India (55%) said they have experienced incidents in the past that have made them feel unsafe. Despite this, less than half of this percentage have lodged an official complain with either the police (24%) or the women’s council (16%).

A large proportion of women did not take any action after the incident and discussed the matter with friends/ family (46%) or took charge of the situation themselves (34%). A quarter (24%) ignored the incident altogether.

The data shows most women trust the police and judiciary only to some extent when it comes to ensuring their safety or imparting justice to the victims. Only some (22% and 34% respectively) trust these institutions a lot. The lack of absolute trust in the law and police force of the country could be the reason for women dealing with unsafe situations on their own instead of approaching the authorities.

When asked what steps could help reduce crime against women, a majority (67%) feel early education of men to respect women could be effective in this regard. Many (62%) believe harsher punishments or fast track trials could be effective while a little over half (52%) believe better patrolling by police could help reduce crime against women.

(YouGov)

November 11, 2020

Source: https://in.yougov.com/en-hi/news/2020/11/04/most-urban-indian-women-feel-unsafe-while-walking-/

663-43-02/Poll

Thailand has the most gamers in ASEAN, PS4 console of choice

Latest data from YouGov’s Gaming and esports: The next generation white paper provides an analysis of the global video games and esports landscape across 24 markets. YouGov Asia Pacific examines the gaming behaviours across six ASEAN nations – Singapore, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia, to see how gamers vary across these neighbouring countries.

Across six ASEAN nations, Thailand boasts the highest number of gamers, with over eight in ten (82%) playing some form of mobile or video games. They are closely followed by the Philippines (80%), Indonesia (77%) and Singapore (76%). Malaysia has the lowest number of gamers in the region, with only six in ten (60%) saying that they play mobile or video games. With the exception of Singapore in which the gender of gamers are almost equally split, data from the other five nations show that gamers are more likely to be male.

While Thailand has the most gamers, Filipinos are the most likely to have gamers over the age of 55. In the Philippines, two thirds (65%) of those aged 55 and older play mobile or video games. Thailand comes in second place for elderly gamers (59%), Indonesia in third (57%) and Singapore in fourth (56%). Malaysia and Vietnam are the least likely to see senior citizens playing games (34% and 30% respectively).

With the upcoming launch of Sony’s PlayStation 5 and Microsoft’s Xbox Series X, YouGov examined the prevalence of console use and access in ASEAN. When looking at which nation has either the highest ownership or access to a console, Indonesia came up on top, with over half (55%) being able to get their hands on one. Indonesia is closely followed by Thailand and Vietnam (both 52%), Philippines (50%), and Singapore (46%). Malaysians are the least likely to own or have access to a console (42%).

Though it remains to be seen whether the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X will be the more popular console this year, it is clear in ASEAN the PlayStation 4 is currently the console of choice. In five ASEAN nations, the PlayStation 4 is the console that most people own or have access to. These nations are the Philippines (11%), Thailand (12%), Vietnam (12%), Malaysia (15%) and Singapore (15%). Singapore is the only nation where ownership / access to a PlayStation 4 ties with ownership / access to a Nintendo Switch (both 15%). Indonesia is the only exception, where the PlayStation 3 is the most popular in the nation (19%).

Nicole Pike, Global Sector Head of Esports & Gaming at YouGov commented:

“YouGov is primed to play an important role in demystifying this industry for brands through data, which is why our first large-scale, global whitepaper on esports and gaming comes at the perfect time. Our breadth and depth of global tracking, profiling, and custom survey data is industry-leading, and I’m excited to showcase just how valuable the combination of daily performance tracking and nuanced analysis of the world’s gaming audience can be to stakeholders across the gaming ecosystem.

“This whitepaper offers a foundational understanding of gamers – which, given the number of countries, platforms, titles, streaming sites, and competitions at this audience’s fingertips is far from basic in today’s gaming landscape. Beyond our extensive industry expertise, we also explore key trends that will drive continued growth for gaming into 2021, all rooted in data from consumers around the world – the ultimate source of truth for understanding the next generation of gaming.”

(YouGov)

October 29, 2020

Source: https://id.yougov.com/en-id/news/2020/10/29/thailand-has-most-gamers-asean-ps4-console-choice/

MENA

663-43-03/Poll

More than a fourth of UAE residents are unwilling to travel until a Covid cure is available

Among those planning to travel, staycation appears to be the most popular form of holiday during the pandemic

YouGov’s latest survey reveals 27% of UAE residents are unwilling to travel anywhere until a cure for Covid-19 is available. Women were more likely to say this as compared to men (32% vs 25%).

The fear of the pandemic seems to be universal among the different age groups; with both young adults aged between 18-24 years, as well as those aged 45+ years showing similar levels of apprehension about travelling during the pandemic (35% and 33%, respectively).

Among those who are willing to travel, nearly a quarter (24%) are considering taking a staycation or shorter trips within the country. On the other hand, one in six (16%) are willing to take a longer domestic holiday, for a week or more.

Some residents (20%) are comfortable travelling to international destinations where tourists are welcome, while some other (12%) are only ready to venture into places with low Covid infection rates.

The boredom of staying and working from home has inspired a new form of travel called ‘Workation’ or travel to a new or off-beat destination where one can work as well as relax. One in eight (12%) UAE residents are looking forward to go on a workation during the pandemic. This particular form of holiday seems to be more popular among high-income households (earning AED 40,000+), with one in three out of these individuals (29%) wanting to take a workation.

When it comes to choosing a travel destination during the pandemic, scenic locations such as beaches or mountains top the preference list of residents (at 45%). After this, luxury resorts are preferred by a third of respondents (33%), followed by wildlife sanctuaries (29%) and health & wellness retreats (27%).

Some residents prefer adventure trips such as Scuba diving, etc., (23%) or trips to amusement parks (22%). Residents earning AED 40,000+ in particular were more likely than the other income group members to choose these kind of destinations.

Even though many people are now willing to travel, they are being cautious about their safety as well as their spending. Close to a third (30%) prefer budget hotels that follow all the safety norms. Just under a fourth (23%), on the other hand, would opt for five star hotels.

Private villas (15%), private flats on rent (12%) or staying at a friend’s house (12%) are some of the options people seem to be comfortable with in terms of their accommodation.

Although people have opened up to travel, they are still not comfortable with being around other people. A majority of residents (59%) are comfortable travelling only with their immediate family members. One in six (16%) are happy travelling with a smaller group of friends or family, and just as many (16%) prefer travelling solo during the pandemic.

(YouGov)

Novemeber 11, 2020

Source: https://mena.yougov.com/en/news/2020/11/12/more-fourth-uae-residents-are-unwilling-travel-unt/

EUROPE

663-43-04/Poll

Is Black Friday abandoned in favor of Green Friday?

Which e-commerce sites will be favored by 18-34 year olds? Amazon is largely ahead (68%), followed by Sephora (34%), La Fnac (31%), Zalando (29%) and Cdisount (27%).

Amazon, the e-commerce platform that surfs on Black Friday

Each year, Amazon deploys a major advertising device in the weeks leading up to Black Friday. The brand's Positive Buzz score rose 6.5 points in November 2019.

This year, Amazon France is forced to cancel its pre-Black Friday advertising campaign. At the request of the French government, the brand indeed had to suspend its communication just days after its launch.

A growing awareness

Despite a still strong enthusiasm on the part of Millennials, there is a growing awareness at the national level:

57% of French people agree that Black Friday has a negative impact on the environment, 6 points more than last year.
60% find Black Friday a source of waste, 4 points more than in 2019.

Nearly one in two French people also consider that brands should boycott the event (47%).

Green Friday, a still little-known alternative

Initiated in 2017, Green Friday aims to challenge Black Friday and raise awareness of the social and environmental issues of mass consumption, to encourage consumers to adopt new, more responsible consumption habits.

For its 4 ^th edition, awareness of Green Friday remained stable at 10%.

Companies participating in the Green Friday operation undertake in particular not to offer discounts to their customers on Black Friday and to donate 10% of their turnover for the day of November 27, 2020 for the benefit of HOP ( association to fight against planned obsolescence).

7 out of 10 French people (71%) are in favor of this initiative. However, only 41% intend to support the movement (4 points less than in 2019). 23% will support the movement by not participating in Black Friday, 13% intend to order on one of the Green Friday partner sites and 11% wish to participate in an awareness workshop.

(YouGov)

November 05, 2020

Source: https://fr.yougov.com/news/2020/11/05/black-friday-delaisse-au-profit-du-green-friday/

663-43-05/Poll

Worries about Christmas and New Year's Eve plans in the Corona year are great

Current survey in cooperation with Statista on the plans of Germans for Christmas & New Year's Eve and on the concerns that plans would have to be canceled due to Corona.

More than one in five (23 percent) plan to invite relatives for Christmas. Of those, 46 percent are concerned that this plan will be thwarted. 17 percent of Germans want to go to their relatives themselves, of which half (52 percent) say they are worried about having to skip this trip. 11 percent are planning a Christmas party. Among them, 49 percent are concerned that this will not take place. Only 7 percent of Germans state that they plan to visit the Christmas market in the Corona year. Among them, as many as 75 percent say that they are worried about possible deprivation.

THE MAJORITY OF GERMANS DO NOT YET HAVE ANY CONCRETE PLANS FOR NEW YEAR'S EVE

There also seem to be great uncertainties when planning this year's New Year's Eve. The majority (64 percent) of Germans say they don't have any plans for New Year's Eve yet. Up to now, 15 percent of all respondents plan to spend the evening with friends. Half (50 percent) of them are concerned that this appointment will not materialize. 7 percent are planning a New Year's party. Of those, as many as 60 percent say they are worried about skipping the party.

(YouGov)

November 11, 2020

Source: https://yougov.de/news/2020/11/12/sorgen-uber-weihnachts-und-silvesterplane-im-coron/

663-43-06/Poll

The Cashless plan convinces, 6 out of 10 prefer cards to cash

When the Cashless plan was approved last October, we investigated what was the opinion of Italians on the use of electronic payments and on the plan which was still in its infancy at the time. A year later, the plan begins to take shape, but in the meantime many things have happened.

47%

of Italians would use their credit / debit (or ATM) card to pay any amount, no matter how low it is. In 2019 they were 40%

Thanks to the pandemic, the use of electronic payments, which inevitably increased during the lockdown, continued to grow even after the opening , becoming the preferred payment method for 6 out of 10 people (5 out of 10 in 2019% ).

At the same time, reserves decrease when the amount to be paid is small: if last year 40% of Italians declared that they would use the card for any amount, no matter how low , this year the percentage rises significantly by 7 points (47%)

The percentage of people who prefer card payments has risen by 10% compared to 2019

Personally, when you are in a shop, restaurant or other business, do you prefer to pay with cash or credit / debit card (or debit card)?
Base : about 1000 Italians 18+ for each survey.
▲ indicates that the increase in the 2020 score compared to 2019 is statistically significant

201920202019202050%23%25%2%60%19%20%2%Carta o bancomat ▲Carta o bancomat ▲ContantiNo preferenzaNon sapreiL

Italians are increasingly recognizing the positive sides of electronic money

Considered simpler and faster than cash (68%, + 8% compared to 2019), it also has the advantage of facilitating the monitoring of expenses more than paper money does (44%, + 7% compared to 2019). Furthermore, 39% of people prefer to pay by card to help track transactions (+ 6% vs 2019), and finally, almost 4 out of 10 people prefer it due to the greater hygiene (37%).

The Cashless Plan finds even more fertile ground today

One year later, thanks to both the positive change in people's attitudes and the greater concreteness of the measures envisaged in the plan, "Italia Cashless" is received even more favorably than last year , with 60% of Italians to say favorable or completely favorable.

This year the Cashless plan is seen even more favorably (+ 9%)

In general, how favorable or unfavorable are you to the "Italia Cashless" plan?
Base : about 1000 Italians 18+ for each survey

Completamente favorevoleFavorevoleNé favorevole né sfavorevoleSfavorevoleCompletamente sfavorevoleNon saprei30%26%30%25%21%23%6%11%6%9%7%6%202020202019L

The plan includes three specific measures. The "cashback" , or rather the re-credit of 10% of the amounts paid electronically in physical stores, welcomes the favor of 75% of people ; the receipt of receipts and the super cashback of just over half (56% and 55%). The "Receipt Lottery" provides for the monthly extraction of receipts for all purchases made, while the "super cashback" is a prize of 3,000 euros for the first 100,000 citizens who will use electronic payments the most.

All measures of the plan are welcomed, especially the "Cashback".

How favorable or unfavorable are you to each of the following "Cashless" plan measures?
Base : 1007 Italians 18+

Completamente favorevoleFavorevoleNé favorevole né sfavorevoleSfavorevoleCompletamente sfavorevoleNon saprei26%26%40%30%29%35%25%22%13%7%9%4%9%11%6%3%3%2…Lotteria degli scontriniLotteria degli scontriniSuper CashbackCashbackL

Compared to last year, Italians declare with less and less frequency that they are in points of sale where electronic payment is not available (-4% compared to 2019). However, the percentage (15%), albeit low, of people who report being refused card payment for amounts considered too low by the merchant is unchanged .

Electronic payments are slightly more popular, but a small percentage of outlets where they are rejected for low amounts remain constant.

When you are in a shop, restaurant or other commercial activity, how often does it happen that the ATM payment method is not available / is rejected for too low amounts, even if it is available ?
% of "Always" + "Often"
Base : about 1000 Italians 18+ for each survey
▼ indicates that the decrease in the 2020 score compared to 2019 is statistically significant

2019202012%16%9%15%Mancata disponibilitàdi pagamentielettronici ▼Mancata disponibilitàdi pagamentielettronici ▼Rifiuto per sommebasseL

In fact, the owners or partners of commercial activities see the new proposal from a different perspective, namely that of the costs associated with owning a POS and the commissions on each transaction , which are considered too high.

At the moment the possibility of abolishing commissions on microtransactions is being studied , in order to remove one of the barriers for merchants, which at the moment perhaps explains why this group is less favorable to the plan (-18 points compared to the general population) and does not have changed my mind compared to 2019.

(YouGov)

October 30, 2020

Source: https://it.yougov.com/news/2020/10/30/italia-cashless-2020/

663-43-07/Poll

Pandemic particularly impacts personal finances of Brits from BAME backgrounds

Debt Tracker data suggests people from Britain’s Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities have suffered a large financial hit from COVID-19

In every financial circumstance asked about, people from a BAME background were more likely than White respondents to have been negatively affected. Most noticeably, over two in five people from BAME communities (45%) say their personal finances have suffered as a result of the pandemic, compared with a third of White respondents (34%).

Similar proportions say their households are now worse off (45% vs 35%), their disposable income has decreased (44% vs 35%), and state that the pandemic has been bad for both their savings (40% vs 32%) and debts (26% vs 20%).

Lost income

The Debt Tracker data suggests that people from BAME backgrounds are more likely to have seen their household income decrease as a consequence of the pandemic. While more than three in five (63%) of White people are certain that their household has not lost any income from the pandemic, this figure falls to just under half (48%) of people from BAME communities.

Similarly, while just under three in ten (28%) White people say their household has lost some or all of its income due to COVID-19, this figure increases to over a third (36%) of people from BAME backgrounds.

Financial worries

The data finds that the coronavirus pandemic has made many people anxious about money, with people from BAME communities being more likely than White people to feel worried.

Those from BAME backgrounds are more likely than White people to be concerned about being able to cope with unexpected expenses such as the boiler breaking down (43% to 34%), affording rent and mortgage payments (29% to 17%), finding the money for council tax (29% vs 17%), bills (28% vs 19%) and repaying debts (27% vs 18%).

Additionally, data shows that approaching three in ten (28%) people from BAME communities fear not affording food and clothes compared to one in five (21%) White people.

(YouGov)

November 09, 2020

Source: https://yougov.co.uk/topics/economy/articles-reports/2020/11/09/pandemic-particularly-impacts-personal-finances-br

663-43-08/Poll

How important is a degree when looking for a new job?

YouGov asked businesses in the UK just how important a top-level qualification is when they are looking for new hires

But how important is it for job hunters to have a degree? A new YouGov B2B Omnibus survey asked 1,000 business decision makers in Great Britain just how important a top-level qualification really is when hiring a new employee.

Overall, approaching two fifths (39%) of businesses say that generally speaking, applicants having a degree is important when they hire for a new position, while 14% say it is very important.

However, most businesses (56%) say the opposite, and that in general applicants having a degree level qualification is not important – with three in ten (30%) saying it is not important at all.

Does size matter?

However, job applicants who do hold degrees may have better luck when applying to different size companies, with the majority (56%) of decision makers who work in large businesses (with >249 employees) saying a degree is important when picking a candidate for a role.

The importance of degree-holding appears inversely proportional to the number of employees; 38% of decision-makers in medium sized businesses (50-249 employees), 36% of those in small businesses (10- 49 employees) and just 20% of those in microbusinesses say it’s important for candidates to be university graduates.

Is there a sector difference?

Differences in whether businesses place importance on a degree are more apparent when splitting the data by sector, with businesses operating in the legal sector leading the way. Two thirds (66%) of legal businesses say its important for new hires to have a degree, with 40% saying its very important.

Most IT and Telecoms (58%) firms also prefer candidates with high level of qualification, however only 19% say its very important for them to hold ad egree. The same is true for 55% of finance and accounting firms who place emphasis on a degree when hiring.

Elsewhere the media and marketing sector is split, with 47% of businesses saying a degree is important compared to 50% of businesses saying the opposite.

Manufacturing and construction businesses are less concerned about whether applicants have a degree or not when hiring (38% and 36% of businesses respectively).

Candidates currently looking for work who don’t have a completed degree may wish to look into the retail (30%) and hospitality sectors (19%), as these are the least like to place importance on degree qualifications when hiring for new roles.

(YouGov)

November 09, 2020

Source: https://yougov.co.uk/topics/education/articles-reports/2020/11/09/how-important-degree-when-looking-new-job

663-43-09/Poll

Half of Britons wouldn’t mind if restrictions are still in place over the Christmas period

Four in ten say restrictions wouldn’t affect their Christmas in the first place

With less than two months until Christmas, Brits’ social calendars would usually be filling up with festive getaways and events.

However, due to the uncertainty of knowing which coronavirus restrictions will be implemented in December, for many these plans are up in the air. But new YouGov data shows that many people will not actually be bothered by the disruption.

Half of Britons (50%) say they wouldn’t mind if restrictions like the ‘rule of six’ or a ban on households mixing are in place during the Christmas period.

The older people are the less likely they are to be bothered: most of those aged 65 and above (55%) wouldn’t be fussed, but just 41% of 18- to 24-year-olds say the same. Men are also noticeably more likely to say they wouldn’t mind (58%) than women (43%).

Four in ten Britons (42%) say such restrictions wouldn’t affect their usual Christmas celebrations in the first place. Nevertheless, a majority (54%) say it would have a noticeable impact, including 27% who say it cause “a great deal” of disruption. Women are more likely than men to think it will affect their usual celebrations (61% vs 46%).

Three quarters think most people will break Christmas rules – but not themselves

Whilst the exact restrictions for the festive period are yet to be announced, three in four Brits (76%) think most people would break the rules in order to meet together and visit other people. A third (31%) are adamant this would definitely happen.

Despite the expectations that most of their fellow citizens will flout the rules, just a quarter of Brits (24%) say they themselves would not follow Yuletide restrictions. The likelihood of rebellion is higher amongst younger people, with 40% of those aged 18 and 24 saying they’d break the rules (including 14% say they’d definitely break the rules), more than double the rate among their eldest peers (15% of the over-65s).

The majority, however, claim they will not be rule-breakers – two in three (67%) say they would follow restrictions during the Christmas period, with those aged over 65 most likely to comply (78%).

Combining responses to the two questions shows that almost half of Britons (47%) believe themselves to be virtuous in a land of Christmas lawlessness, saying that they themselves will follow the rules even though they expect most will not.

A further quarter (24%) consider themselves part of the problem – saying that most people will break the rules, including themselves. Only 17% think that they and most people will follow the rules, while barely 1% expect to be in a minority in breaking the rules themselves.

(YouGov)

November 06, 2020

Source: https://yougov.co.uk/topics/politics/articles-reports/2020/11/06/half-britons-wouldnt-mind-if-restrictions-are-stil

663-43-10/Poll

Do Britons want Christmas adverts to acknowledge COVID-19?

The festive season is rapidly approaching and most Brits don’t want adverts to pretend everything is normal

Overall, half (53%) of Britons think that brands should acknowledge the events of the COVID-19 pandemic in their Christmas adverts, compared to a quarter (25%) who would prefer adverts not to mention the pandemic at all.

A significant number (22%) of adults are also undecided on the best way to produce the adverts this year regarding COVID-19.

Using YouGov Profiles we can take a closer look at how different types of adults feel about the issue. For example, older adults (59% of over 55s) are more likely to want acknowledgement of the pandemic in Christmas advertising than younger adults (44% of 18- to 24-year-olds).

However, these younger adults are not more likely to be opposed to Christmas ads mentioning COVID-19. Rather, the difference comes from a higher proportion who are undecided on whether adverts should or should not. Some 32% of 18- to 24-year-olds answered “don’t know” compared to 20% of those over 55.

YouGov Profiles also shows that families are not concerned about Christmas adverts mentioning COVID-19. Half (52%) of parents and guardians of children under 18 say that Christmas adverts should mention it, with 30% opposed to them doing so.

Breaking the data down by region does reveal a difference, however, with adults living in areas affected by stricter local lockdowns less likely to want Christmas adverts to make mention of the pandemic.

In areas such as London and the South East of England 60% and 55% of adults respectively want Christmas marketing campaigns to acknowledge the global pandemic. Whereas in the North East and Yorkshire and the Humber less than half (47% and 42% of adults respectively) want Christmas adverts to do so.

Marketing campaigns for Christmas this year will be tricky to get right, but on balance, most Brits want to see brands acknowledge the difficulties we’ve faced during 2020.

(YouGov)

November 04, 2020

Source: https://yougov.co.uk/topics/consumer/articles-reports/2020/11/04/do-britons-want-christmas-adverts-acknowledge-covi

NORTH AMERICA

663-43-11/Poll

Economic Stimulus Could Boost U.S. Holiday Spending

Bar graph. Americans' plans to spend for the holiday season, based on whether they receive a new stimulus payment. 37% of Americans say they will spend much or somewhat less this holiday season than they did last year, if they do not receive a new stimulus payment. 30% say they would spend much or somewhat less this holiday season than they did last year if they do receive a new stimulus payment of $1,200.

These results are based on 5,002 web-based surveys completed Oct. 1-9 as part of the Franklin Templeton-Gallup Economics of Recovery Study. This study is conducted via an opt-in web panel. The sample has been adjusted statistically to ensure it represents key subgroups in their proper proportions of the U.S. adult population.

The finding that, with or without a new stimulus check, more Americans plan to scale back than to increase their holiday spending this year is consistent with a separate Gallup holiday spending poll, in which Americans estimated they would spend almost $150 less this year on gifts than they estimated in 2019.

As expected, Americans who report experiencing financial difficulties are particularly likely to say they will spend less this year, but their responses also differ according to whether they are asked this in light of a possible stimulus payment. Among U.S. adults who say they are "having to draw on savings" or "running into debt," 42% say they will spend "much less" if they receive no new assistance. Among those asked to assume they will receive a $1,200 payment, that figure drops to 33%.

Bar graph. Plans among Americans who are currently drawing on their savings or running into debt to spend this holiday season compared with last year, based on the potential for an additional government stimulus payment. 63% of Americans who are currently drawing on their savings or running into debt plan to spend much less or somewhat less than last year, if they don't receive any new assistance. Among this group, if they receive a new stimulus payment of $1,200, 56% say they will spend much or somewhat less than last year.

Stimulus May Boost Holiday Spending Most Among Those Pessimistic About COVID-19

Overall, 53% of Americans currently say the coronavirus situation in the U.S. is getting worse, while 25% say it is staying the same and 22% say it is getting better. Those who believe the situation is getting worse are more responsive than the COVID-19 optimists to the possibility of a stimulus payment, with 69% saying they will spend less than last year without additional stimulus money, whereas 57% would spend less with a $1,200 payment. Among those who believe the COVID-19 situation is "staying the same" or "getting better," the prospect of receiving a payment makes little difference in the likelihood that they will spend less this year.

Difference Associated With Stimulus Is Greatest Among Those Who Say COVID-19 Situation Is Getting Worse

Percentage who anticipate spending somewhat/much LESS this holiday season if they …

	Do not receive any new assistance	Receive a stimulus payment of $1,200	Difference
	%	%	pct. pts.
Americans who believe COVID-19 situation is getting better	58	62	+4
Americans who believe COVID-19 situation is staying the same	52	48	-4
Americans who believe COVID-19 situation is getting worse	69	57	-12
FRANKLIN TEMPLETON-GALLUP ECONOMICS OF RECOVERY STUDY, OCT. 1-9, 2020

Implications

Analysts are forecasting a major shift toward online shopping this holiday season, which should limit the decline in spending attributable to fears of contracting the coronavirus. But the crisis has also reduced many Americans' disposable income, at least temporarily.

However, the current survey also corresponds with recent economic analyses suggesting a new round of federal stimulus checks would result in significantly higher holiday spending. Further, the effect of the proposed stimulus may be clearest with regard to offsetting apprehension about spending among those who believe the COVID-19 situation is getting worse.

(Gallup USA)

November 12, 2020

Source: https://news.gallup.com/poll/323447/economic-stimulus-boost-holiday-spending.aspx

663-43-12/Poll

Investors With Advisers More Confident Amid COVID-19

The coronavirus pandemic has led to volatility and uncertainty in the financial markets, creating an additional concern for Americans who have money invested in the stock market. New results from the Franklin Templeton-Gallup Economics of Recovery Study suggest that amid heightened economic uncertainty, financial advisers play a significant role in helping investors feel they can still manage risks effectively. Investors with financial advisers feel substantially more confident in their investment approach, and they are more likely to have engaged in several activities that have been curtailed by the pandemic, such as flying and staying in hotels.

Overall, almost half of stockowners (48%) say they are working with a financial adviser. Those with advisers are more likely than those without advisers to be "very confident" they have the best possible investment strategy -- 35% vs. 15%, respectively. Conversely, those without a financial adviser are twice as likely to say they are "not too confident" or "not confident at all" (30% vs. 15% of those with financial advisers).

FT_CustomChart_v1

Bar graph. American investors' levels of confidence in their investment strategies, based on whether or not they have a financial adviser. 84% of investors with a financial adviser are very or somewhat confident, compared with 70% of those without a financial adviser who say the same.

These results are based on more than 5,002 web-based surveys completed Oct. 1-9 as part of the Franklin Templeton-Gallup Economics of Recovery Study. This study is conducted via an opt-in web panel. The sample has been adjusted statistically to ensure it represents key subgroups in their proper proportions of the U.S. adult population.

In general, investors with higher incomes are more likely to be confident in their investment strategy. However, even withinboth lower and higher income groups, working with a financial adviser is associated with greater economic confidence. Among investors with annual household incomes below $120,000, those with advisers are more than twice as likely as those without to be "very confident" in their investment strategy; the same is true among investors with incomes of $120,000 or more.

Financial Advisers Associated With Greater Confidence Among Both Lower-Income and Higher-Income Investors

	Stock investors overall	Investors with a financial adviser	Investors with no financial adviser
	%	%	%
Household income less than $120K
Very confident	23	33	14
Somewhat confident	52	51	54
Not too confident	22	14	27
Not confident at all	4	2	5
Household income $120K or more
Very confident	32	42	18
Somewhat confident	53	46	61
Not too confident	13	10	16
Not confident at all	3	1	4
FRANKLIN TEMPLETON-GALLUP ECONOMICS OF RECOVERY STUDY, OCT. 1-9, 2020

Investors with financial advisers are also more likely to have an optimistic view of the stock market's performance. Thirty-five percent of investors with an adviser -- versus 22% of those without one -- say the market is "much higher" or "somewhat higher" today than it was before the pandemic began.

Confidence Is Key to Economic Activity and Recovery

COVID-19 has introduced a great deal of uncertainty into Americans' lives, which has its own consequences in terms of reduced spending and decreased economic activity. As in all economic downturns, financial confidence matters a great deal in the current recession.

In the current survey, the connection between financial confidence and public consumption is clear. Those who are very confident in their investment strategy are more likely to have dined indoors at a restaurant in the past 24 hours, and to have reserved a hotel, rented a car or booked a flight for use within 30 days. These differences are present among both lower-income and higher-income investors.

Investors Who Are "Very Confident" They Have the Best Possible Investment Strategy Are More Likely to Have Engaged in Key Consumer Behaviors

	Household income less than $120K		Household income $120K or more
	%	%	%	%
	"Very confident" investors	All other investors	"Very confident" investors	All other investors
Booked a flight that leaves within 30 days	33	13	39	13
Reserved a hotel for use within 30 days	36	12	37	15
Rented a car for use within 30 days	29	8	33	8
Dined indoors at a restaurant in past 24 hours	32	15	46	14
FRANKLIN TEMPLETON-GALLUP ECONOMICS OF RECOVERY STUDY, OCT. 1-9, 2020

Implications

Human decision-making -- including decisions about financial matters -- is about 30% rational and 70% emotional, according to a recent Gallup review of behavioral economics studies. Given the heightened anxiety generated by the COVID-19 pandemic, financial advisers' expertise and perspective may help investors better navigate the country's uneven and prolonged recovery. The current findings highlight the relationship between advice and investor confidence as financial advisers address clients' concerns.

(Gallup USA)

November 12, 2020

Source: https://news.gallup.com/poll/323468/investors-advisers-confident-amid-covid.aspx

663-43-13/Poll

2020 election reveals two broad voting coalitions fundamentally at odds

But if one early takeaway from the election is historic voter participation, another may be the continuing political polarization that has come to define the United States. Democrats and Republicans both could walk away from the election with cause for disappointment, and divided government in Washington is a distinct possibility.

It isn’t just Washington that will be divided. The elected officials who take the oath of office in January will be representing two broad coalitions of voters who are deeply distrustful of one another and who fundamentally disagree over policies, plans and even the very problems that face the country today.

Trump and Biden supporters differ over importance of the economy, health care – and particularly the coronavirus

No issue seems to exemplify this divide more than the coronavirus pandemic. With more than 235,000 deaths in the U.S. to date and the election itself disrupted because of the virus, 82% of registered voters who support Biden said in October that the outbreak would be “very important” to their vote. Only 24% of registered voters who support Trump said the same.

The enormous gulf over the importance of COVID-19 as a voting issue is just one of many ways, large and small, in which the virus has divided the partisan camps throughout 2020. Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents have consistently expressed far more concern over the virus than Republicans and GOP leaners. Before the election, most Republicans said the pandemic had been exaggerated and that the U.S. had controlled the outbreak as much as it could have – positions rejected by most Democrats.

The Biden and Trump coalitions also fundamentally differ over racial inequality and law enforcement – key issues in a year that saw nationwide protests following the killing of George Floyd at the hands of police in Minneapolis. Around three-quarters of registered voters who support Biden (76%) said in the summer that racial and ethnic inequality would be very important to their vote; just 24% of Trump supporters agreed. Conversely, around three-quarters of Trump voters (74%) said the issue of violent crime was very important to them, compared with fewer than half of Biden voters (46%).

The two sides are miles apart when it comes to more general questions about race, too. In a summer survey, 74% of Biden voters said “it is a lot more difficult” to be a Black person in this country than to be a White person – a view shared by only 9% of Trump voters. And while 59% of Biden voters said White people benefit a “great deal” from advantages in society that Black people do not have, only 5% of Trump voters agreed. Indeed, Biden and Trump voters were far more divided over these questions than Hillary Clinton and Trump voters were in 2016.

Climate change ranks near the top of issue priorities to Biden voters, low on list to Trump voters

Climate change marks another area where political compromise may be challenging because Biden and Trump supporters disagree over the importance of the issue itself. Around two-thirds of Biden voters (68%) said in the summer that climate change would be very important to their vote this year. But for Trump voters, climate change ranked last in importance out of 12 issues asked about, with only 11% saying it would be a key factor in their vote.

That’s not to say that there are no areas of agreement between the two coalitions. With businesses still shuttered in many parts of the country due to COVID-19, majorities in both groups (84% of Trump voters and 66% of Biden voters) said in October that the economy would be a top voting issue for them. But even in an area of apparent agreement, there are differences in the way partisans are thinking about the economy, the extent to which they see it as intertwined with the coronavirus outbreak and some of the specific provisions they would like to see in any new aid package approved by Congress.

In a summer survey, the overwhelming consensus among Democrats (94%) was that the more effective way to help the U.S. economy recover is to significantly reduce coronavirus infections to a level where more people feel comfortable going to stores, schools and other workplaces. Republicans were almost evenly divided on this question: 49% shared the Democratic perspective, while 50% said the more effective approach is to open more stores, schools and workplaces even if there hasn’t been a significant reduction in infections. The question over whether and how to open businesses will be a paramount one in the weeks ahead as the U.S. confronts a fall surge in COVID-19 cases.

Underlying the many policy disagreements between Biden and Trump voters is a more personal feeling of distrust and disillusionment that could make compromise all the more difficult, particularly in the wake of a contested presidential election.

Only about one-in-five Trump and Biden supporters say they share the same core American values and goals

Overwhelming majorities of both Biden and Trump supporters said in October that a victory by the other candidate would lead to lasting harm to the nation. Nine-in-ten Biden voters said this about the prospect of a Trump victory, and 89% of Trump voters said it about the prospect of a Biden win. And around eight-in-ten in both camps said Biden and Trump supporters not only disagree over politics and policies, but that they also disagree over core American values and goals.

Another critical challenge to the prospect of political compromise is a dearth of shared facts and information. Pew Research Center studies have long catalogued wide partisan differences in views of the media, with Democrats generally expressing far more trust than Republicans. But beyond that long-standing trend is an emerging consensus that shared facts are in short supply. In a survey just before the election, 85% of U.S. adults said Biden and Trump supporters disagree not only over plans and policies, but also over basic facts.

As the nation moves on from a bitterly contested election, these dynamics and others point to the obvious challenges that lie ahead. But the outlook isn’t uniformly bad. Voters across the political divide, for example, want the next president to govern in a unifying way. In October, 89% of Biden supporters and 86% of Trump supporters said their preferred candidate should focus on addressing the needs of all Americans, even if it means disappointing some supporters. Only around one-in-ten in both camps said their candidate should focus on the concerns of those who voted for him without worrying too much about the concerns of those who didn’t.

(PEW)

November 06, 2020

Source: https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/11/06/2020-election-reveals-two-broad-voting-coalitions-fundamentally-at-odds/

663-43-14/Poll

After surging in 2019, migrant apprehensions at U.S.-Mexico border fell sharply in fiscal 2020

Below is a closer look at the shifting dynamics at the southwestern border, based on the new numbers from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the federal agency tasked with patrolling the border.

How we did this

Following a dramatic rise in fiscal 2019, apprehensions at the U.S.-Mexico border fell by about half in fiscal 2020 as COVID-19 closed borders. There were 400,651 apprehensions in the 2020 fiscal year (October 2019-September 2020), a 53% decrease from the previous fiscal year, when apprehensions soared to their highest level in 12 years. The fiscal 2020 total was generally on par with other recent years and far below the 1,643,679 recorded in the peak year of 2000. Border apprehensions regularly exceeded 1 million per fiscal year during the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s.

The decrease in apprehensions comes as the movement of migrants in the Americas and worldwide has slowed during the COVID-19 outbreak, with governments fully or partially closing their borders to stem its spread.

In March, Mexico restricted nonessential travel across its border with the United States, while the governments of El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras also implemented restrictions on movement. Most migrants apprehended at the U.S.-Mexico border in recent years have come from Mexico and Central American nations.

In a shift, Mexicans far outnumbered non-Mexicans among those apprehended at the border in fiscal 2020. Mexican citizens accounted for 63% of the total number apprehended, marking the first year in the last five in which they outnumbered citizens of other countries. The change represents a return to the pattern observed throughout the 2000s and 2010s. For example, in 2000 (the earliest year for which data is available), Mexicans accounted for 98% of apprehensions while non-Mexicans accounted for just 2%.

Border agents apprehended a total of 253,118 Mexicans in fiscal 2020, up from 166,458 the year before and the highest total in seven years. The increase comes despite a steep decline in apprehensions of Central American migrants in fiscal 2020. The U.S. apprehended 47,243 migrants from Guatemala, down from 264,168 the year before; 40,091 from Honduras, down from 253,795; and 16,484 from El Salvador, down from 89,811.

Single adults accounted for the majority of apprehensions in fiscal 2020, another big shift from last year. There were 317,864 apprehensions of single adults, representing 79% of the total and the largest number of single adults apprehended in six years. Apprehensions of “family units” – defined as the number of individuals traveling in a family – made up 13% of the total, falling from 473,682 in fiscal 2019 to 52,230 this past year. Meanwhile, apprehensions of unaccompanied children ages 17 and younger also decreased from their peak in fiscal 2019, from 76,020 to 30,557.

The changing profile of those being apprehended at the border follows changes in the way the U.S. government is handling border apprehensions during the coronavirus outbreak. In March, citing the pandemic, the Trump administration issued an order allowing Border Patrol agents to swiftly expel migrants they consider health risks to their home country or their last transit country (in this case Mexico). The order covers asylum seekers and unaccompanied children. Since April, the first full month after the order, these expulsions have accounted for 91% of the Border Patrol’s total apprehensions at the southwest border.

Apprehensions fell in nearly every border sector in fiscal 2020, particularly in the Rio Grande sector. The Rio Grande region saw a 73% drop in migrant apprehensions in fiscal 2020 compared with fiscal 2019, from 339,135 to 90,206. That was by far the largest numerical decrease of any of the nine southwest Border Patrol sectors. The El Paso sector saw a decrease of 70%, from 182,143 apprehensions to 54,396. Despite these decreases, the Rio Grande and El Paso sectors still ranked first and third, respectively, in overall apprehensions.

Seasonal migration patterns have changed in recent years. Since 2000, border apprehensions have typically peaked in the spring – most often in March – before declining during the hot summer months, when migration journeys become more perilous. But the pattern has changed since 2013, with the annual peak occurring in months other than March. In fiscal 2020, September was the peak month, with 54,771 apprehensions.

Following the onset of the pandemic, apprehensions fell from 30,389 in March to 16,182 in April. But they started to increase in May before peaking in the final month of the fiscal year.

(PEW)

November 04, 2020

Source: https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/11/04/after-surging-in-2019-migrant-apprehensions-at-u-s-mexico-border-fell-sharply-in-fiscal-2020-2/

663-43-15/Poll

The pace of Boomer retirements has accelerated in the past year

In the third quarter of 2020, about 28.6 million Baby Boomers – those born between 1946 and 1964 – reported that they were out of the labor force due to retirement.

This is 3.2 million more Boomers than the 25.4 million who were retired in the same quarter of 2019. Until this year, the overall number of retired Boomers had been growing annually by about 2 million on average since 2011 (the year the oldest Boomer reached age 65), and the largest increase was 2.5 million between the third quarter of 2014 and 2015.

How we did this

The job losses associated with the COVID-19 recession may be contributing to the jump in Boomer retirements. Since February 2020, the number of retired Boomers has increased by about 1.1 million. Some of this increase could reflect seasonal change in employment activity. But during the February to September period last year, the population of retired Boomers rose by only about 250,000.

In September, 40% of Boomers were retired, up from 39% in February. The recent increase in the share of those who have retired has been greater for some demographic groups. Among Boomers 65 and older, the share retired has increased 2 percentage points since February, whereas the retirement rate has remained unchanged among Boomers younger than 65 (18%).

The share of Boomers who have retired differs by educational attainment. Among those with no education beyond high school, the share is up 2 percentage points since February. There has been no change among those with some college education, and for those with a four-year college degree, the share is up 1 point.

The share of Hispanic Boomers reporting they are retired has increased 4 percentage points since February (30% to 34%). And the retirement rate among Asian Boomers has increased 3 points, from 36% to 39%. Retirement is up more modestly among White and Black Boomers (1 point for each).

Looking regionally, the movement into retirement appears most prevalent among Boomers residing in the Northeast (35% in February and 38% in September).

(PEW)

November 09, 2020

Source: https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/11/09/the-pace-of-boomer-retirements-has-accelerated-in-the-past-year/

AUSTRALIA

663-43-16/Poll

Mental Health conditions Anxiety and Depression increased rapidly during lockdown

Anxiety was the most common Mental Health condition experienced by 5.5 million Australians (26.3%) in the lockdown period, up sharply by over 1.1 million Australians from the 4.4 million (20.9%) reporting suffering from anxiety in the pre COVID-19 period during the March quarter.

Interestingly the second most common Mental Health condition, Stress, increased only marginally during the lockdown period reported by 5.4 million Australians (25.5%), up from 5.3 million (25.0%) in the pre-COVID-19 period.

Of great concern is that there was a sharp rise in Australians suffering from depression during the lockdown period reported by over 3.8 million Australians (18.2%), up around 500,000 from 3.3 million (15.9%) earlier in the year.

These findings are derived from the latest Roy Morgan health research into illnesses and medical conditions spanning over a decade from detailed in-depth interviews with over 50,000 Australians each year as part of the Roy Morgan Single Source survey.

% of Australians experiencing leading Mental Health conditions June quarter 2020 (nation-wide lockdown) cf. March quarter 2020 (pre COVID-19 lockdown)

Source: Roy Morgan Single Source Australia, January – March 2020, n=10,852 and April – June 2020, n=17,260. Base: Australians 14+.

Mental Health issues had a big impact on younger Australians during lockdown

Comparing the prevalence of Mental Health conditions by generation during the nationwide lockdown in the June quarter 2020 shows younger Australians were far more likely to have experienced Stress, Anxiety or Depression than their older counterparts.

Nearly half (45.8%) of Generation Z, the youngest generation born from 1991-2006, experienced a Mental Health condition in the lockdown period led by Anxiety (30.8%), Stress (29.6%) and Depression (20.1%).

Close behind are the 45.6% of Millennials, born from 1976-1990, reporting a Mental Health condition led by Stress (30.9%), Anxiety (30.6%) and Depression (18.6%).

Over two-fifths of Generation X (42.7%) experienced a Mental Health condition in the lockdown period led by Anxiety (28.2%), Stress (26.5%) and Depression (20.8%).

There was a significantly lower prevalence of Mental Health conditions among older generations with under a third of Baby Boomers (30.5%) and around a quarter of Pre-Boomers (25.3%) reporting experiencing a Mental Health condition during the period of the nation-wide lockdown.

Leading Mental Health conditions by generation – June quarter 2020 (nation-wide lockdown)

(Roy Morgan)

November 10, 2020

Source: https://www.roymorgan.com/findings/8566-australian-mental-health-conditions-covid-19-pandemic-november-2020-202011090621

MULTICOUNTRY STUDIES

663-43-17/Poll

Middle Eastern countries rank among the leading video game streaming markets in the world

YouGov’s latest report provides an analysis of the global video games and esports landscape across 24 markets

YouGov’s new white paper, titled ‘Gaming and Esports: The Next Generation’, provides an analysis of the global video games and esports landscape across 24 markets.

Our data shows, for an important sub-section of players, watching video games online has become as much of a pastime as gaming itself.

UAE and KSA rank among the top 10 global markets for YouTube Gaming, in terms of awareness and engagement with the platform among gamers. This highly engaged gaming audience in the region presents a huge opportunity for game developers and console manufacturers.

In KSA, Twitch enjoys a level of engagement that is equivalent to its level of general awareness among the gaming population in the country. Although Twitch has a wider familiarity in the western markets, when it comes to engagement with the platform- Saudi Arabia wins the worldwide race, along with Taiwan.

While Facebook Gaming is a relative newcomer to the space, more than half of the gamers in Egypt (53%) are familiar with this platform. Even though South East Asian countries are ahead of other markets in terms of awareness for Facebook Gaming, Egypt leads the global race when it comes to engagement with the platform (at 25%).

In the area of gaming, our data shows the highest percentage of gamers come from South East Asian countries, with Thailand (82%) and Philippines (80%) leading the pack.

In MENA, Egypt has the highest population of gamers- at 68%, followed by UAE (65%) and KSA (61%).

Within MENA, mobile gamers - playing on a smartphone or tablet clearly outnumber PC or console gamers. In Egypt, just 14% play on consoles compared to 58% who use a smartphone or tablet. Figures for UAE and KSA are 21% for consoles and 57% for mobiles, and 20% and 52%, respectively.

A majority of smartphone gamers in the UAE (79%), KSA (76%) and Egypt (73%) are light to regular players, playing games on their smartphones up to 10 hours a week. Only a small proportion in each country identified as heavy or intense gamers (playing for more than 10 hrs a week).

When it comes to esports, among the 24 surveyed markets, countries in the Middle East tend to be less familiar with esports, with lowest familiarity level in the UAE- at 26%.

Consumers in East Asia tend to have the greatest familiarity with it, with seven in ten people in China (72%), Taiwan (71%) and Hong Kong (70%) describing it correctly as ‘competitive video gaming, primarily in the form of organised/ professional events’.

Large proportions in South East Asia also seem familiar with the term, although European countries’ familiarity with esports varies considerably.

Even though familiarity with esports in the Middle Eastern markets is low, engagement is much higher than the highly aware western markets like US, the UK, and several European countries. This suggests residents are more likely to embrace these competitions, once they know more about them, hinting at a bright future for gaming & esports in the region.

(YouGov)

November 02, 2020

Source: https://mena.yougov.com/en/news/2020/11/02/middle-eastern-countries-rank-among-leading-video-/

663-43-18/Poll

Faith in the benefits of vaccines drops across the globe

faith that vaccines are benefiecial to onself or ones family has dropped - Ipsos MORI

Brazil and China remain stable, with 80% of Brazilians agreeing in the benefits of vaccines (unchanged from 2019) and 56% of Chinese agreeing, up just 2 percentage points.

Eventually all medical conditions and diseases will be curable” - % agree - Ipsos MORI

Ben Page, CEO Ipsos MORI, said:

(Ipsos MORI)

November 10, 2020

Source: https://www.ipsos.com/ipsos-mori/en-uk/faith-benefits-vaccines-drops-across-globe