The survey has found that 72% of Scots are confident in managing their spending, while 30% try to save regularly to avoid feeling stressed/anxious.

HSBC also found that on average, Scots have £33,639 in their savings, with 56% of savers putting money aside for unexpected expenses. 

Just 14% regularly put money into their savings account, despite 55% saying they are confident in growing their savings. A further 71% don’t invest their money as only 33% say they have the confidence to invest.

The survey, which gathered responses from 2,001 UK adults, paints a comprehensive picture of the nation’s financial confidence and behaviours, ultimately revealing that Brits are prioritising budgeting in 2025. However, one in three report they are still struggling to save regularly.

In the UK as a whole, outside of essential spending (bills, rent/mortgage, groceries), Brits spend the most on clothing, shoes, and accessories (46%), followed by dining out (41%), takeaways (34%), and travel (34%).

Interestingly, spending priorities vary by relationship status. Married couples splurge most on dining out (48%), while singles allocate more towards clothing and accessories (43%).

Lloyd Robson, HSBC UK’s head of savings, said: “Dining out and entertainment remain popular areas of non-essential spending, but it’s interesting to see that 27% of Brits now believe most of their spending is negotiable.

“This highlights a shift in consumer attitudes, with more people rethinking their budgets and making considered choices, prioritising positive saving habits over impulse buys.”