Canadians double down on financial discipline amid economic uncertainty: CIBC Poll

A recent CIBC Financial Priorities Poll reveals a notable shift in Canadian attitudes towards financial management, driven by ongoing economic uncertainty. The survey highlights that in 2026, debt repayment continues to dominate Canadians' financial priorities, with 16% citing it as their primary focus, tied with maintaining timely bill payments. The findings paint a picture of households grappling with inflation and rising living costs, pushing them to adopt a more disciplined approach to their finances.

While 70% of respondents remain optimistic about achieving their financial goals, this figure shows a decline from 76% in the previous year, indicating a growing caution among Canadians. Furthermore, only 55% feel equipped to handle unforeseen financial challenges, a drop from 59% in 2025, reflecting increasing anxieties about cash flow and monthly expenses.

Carissa Lucreziano, CIBC’s Vice-President of Financial Planning and Advice, underscores the importance of personalized financial strategies. She recommends that Canadians take proactive steps in planning to enhance their financial resilience and long-term goal achievement.

Interestingly, despite the prevailing economic worries, 43% of Canadians express intentions to start or increase their investments as part of their New Year’s resolutions. CIBC emphasizes the significance of financial planning tools such as the Budget Calculator and the CIBC Smart Planner, which help individuals manage their cash flow and set achievable financial targets.

The poll was conducted by Ipsos between November 13 and 20, 2025, among a sample of 1,505 Canadians, providing insights into the shifting financial landscape amidst economic challenges. This reflects an urgent need for effective financial guidance and support in the face of uncertainty.

The recent CIBC Financial Priorities Poll underscores a significant trend among Canadians as they navigate economic uncertainty marked by inflation and rising living costs. As 2026 approaches, 16% of Canadians prioritize debt reduction, with an equal percentage focused on maintaining timely bill payments. This reflects a prudent shift towards financial discipline, a strategy that could serve individuals well in uncertain times.

While 70% of Canadians maintain confidence in achieving their financial goals, this optimism is slightly waning compared to previous years. The reduced percentage suggests a growing awareness of the challenges posed by the current economic landscape. Moreover, with only 55% feeling adequately prepared for unexpected financial disruptions, it's clear that many may benefit from a closer examination of their financial strategies.

In this context, prioritizing cash flow management and establishing a budget is crucial. Tools such as budgeting calculators and financial planning applications offered by institutions like CIBC can empower individuals to make informed decisions. These resources can help clients gain clarity over their expenses, identify areas for potential savings, and track their progress towards financial goals.

Additionally, as nearly half of Canadians contemplate increasing their investments in the New Year, this could present an opportunity for those with manageable debt to build wealth over time. However, investing should ideally be approached with caution, especially for those still grappling with financial commitments.

Engaging with a financial advisor could also provide structured insight into personalized planning, enabling Canadians to navigate their unique circumstances more effectively. The aim should be to balance immediate financial responsibilities with long-term wealth accumulation, ensuring resilience amid economic fluctuations. In summary, disciplined financial management, combined with strategic advice, will be vital for Canadians to achieve stability and growth in 2026.