Corporate America is always looking to understand the needs of employees and the types of benefits that aid in retention. A new Morgan Stanley at Work report shows that financial benefits and assistance can be a powerful tool for employee satisfaction.
Over half (56%) of the employees surveyed say financial stress negatively affects their work, and concerns over the effects of inflation and recession are causing 61% to reduce contributions to workplace benefits. Also, 4 out of 5 employees (85%) say they would feel more invested in their company if it offered financial benefits tailored to their needs, while 91% would consider switching jobs for benefits that help them reach their goals.
“Our 2026 insights show employees continue to turn to their employers for support with personal financial needs, and employers help meet those needs through a full spectrum of workplace financial benefits,” said Scott Whatley, Head of Morgan Stanley at Work.
See also: Why the 401(k) is no longer enough to meet employee expectations
In fact, the report found that 80% of HR managers worry employees’ financial issues negatively affect productivity, while more than half (53%) believe financial stress-reducing benefits matter most to job satisfaction—above mental or emotional support (26%) and physical wellness benefits (19%).
Seventy-five percent of employees and 85% of HR leaders agree that equity compensation is the best tool to effectively motivate employees.
“Equity compensation continues to resonate as a meaningful driver of motivation, and employees understand equity as a way to unlock long-term value for their personal financial goals,” said Kate Winget, Chief Revenue Officer of Morgan Stanley at Work. “This presents a powerful opportunity for employers to link employee motivation and engagement with company success, and education is key in forging this connection.”
Nearly half of employees (48%) who work at companies that offer equity compensation want more help maximizing these benefits. And employees also want comprehensive retirement planning assistance, placing the greatest value on goal-based investing (46%), retirement income solutions (45%), and access to a financial advisor (43%).
“Retirement planning has an outsized influence on how employees evaluate their workplace benefits,” said Jeremy France, Head of Institutional Consulting Solutions at Morgan Stanley. “While access is nearly universal, employees increasingly expect guidance, particularly from financial professionals, to help translate participation into long-term financial confidence. Employers that deliver holistic retirement support can create a meaningful advantage in attracting and retaining talent.”
Credit: Source link
