Herbalife Study Reveals Pivot to Frugality, Investment Learning, and Entrepreneurship as Key Strategies
Despite prevailing economic challenges, an overwhelming 74% of Filipinos anticipate their personal finances will improve over the next year, according to a new regional survey. This stark optimism persists even as only 30% rate their current economic well-being as “good,” driving a nationwide shift towards practical, self-directed financial management.
The Herbalife APAC Health & Economic Empowerment Survey 2025, released in January 2026, details the proactive measures underpinning this optimism. To navigate a landscape of modest GDP growth and fiscal pressures, 57% of Filipinos plan to cut non-essential spending, building on a trend where 65% have already reduced discretionary expenses. Concurrently, 40% aim to learn investment skills in 2026, and 35% are exploring entrepreneurial opportunities.
The data reveals a clear distinction between entrepreneurs and non-entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurs exhibit significantly higher confidence, with 86% expecting improved finances versus 70% of non-entrepreneurs. They also feel more empowered (69% vs. 50%) to make decisions enhancing their financial stability and report better current health and overall well-being (65% vs. 58%).
Family stands as the paramount motivator, with 73% citing loved ones as the primary driver for their financial goals. However, significant hurdles remain: 50% identify personal financial commitments as a major obstacle, and 43% point to broader economic uncertainty as a key barrier.
“Contrary to the common perception that entrepreneurship is inherently stressful and leads to burnout, the survey shows that entrepreneurs demonstrate higher levels of economic optimism, confidence, and empowerment,” said Allan Domingo, General Manager of Herbalife Philippines. He noted the growing view of entrepreneurship as a viable option for supplemental income, affirming the company’s commitment to supporting Filipinos through health, wellness, and business opportunities.
The survey underscores a parallel focus on physical well-being, with 79% of Filipinos expecting better health in the coming year. Notably, 59% plan to exercise more, highlighting an integrated aspiration for holistic improvement that ties economic and health empowerment together.
Herbalife commissioned the survey across 11 Asia-Pacific markets, including the Philippines, in October 2025. It gathered insights from a total of 8,505 respondents, painting a picture of regional and local aspirations within a challenging economic climate.#
