Money is one of those topics that can bring a conversation to an awkward halt…
For many, it’s still the ultimate taboo. No surprise then that 88% of Brits admit they’ve dodged money conversations altogether, while one in four say asking for financial help is the hardest topic to bring up. But talking about money honestly and openly can be a real game changer.
Sharvan Selvam, Commercial Director at Aqua:
“While debt may be a reality for some, the hesitation to talk about it can sometimes prevent people from exploring practical solutions. Open discussions can help individuals feel more informed and in control of their financial decisions.”
To better understand these challenges, credit card brand Aqua surveyed 2,017 individuals across the UK. The research explored the barriers people face when talking about finances, who they feel most comfortable confiding in, and what would help make these conversations easier. In partnership with relationship consultant and strategist Mairead Molloy, Aqua shared actionable advice on how individuals can approach financial discussions with confidence and without fear of judgment.
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Across the UK, the most challenging financial topic to discuss is asking for financial help or support, cited by 26% of respondents. However, financial discomfort varies by age, with 25 to 44-year-olds struggling most with asking for help, while younger adults (18-24) find discussions about savings and investments the hardest (24%). In contrast, almost half of those aged 65 or over say they don’t find any financial topic difficult to talk about, suggesting greater financial confidence with age.
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Other difficult topics include financial struggles or hardships (25%) and debt (24%), underscoring the emotional weight associated with personal finances. Aqua notes that a reluctance to talk about debt may stem from feelings of shame, fear of judgment, or simply not knowing where to start. However, borrowing money is a common part of life, whether through student loans, mortgages, or credit cards.
Relationship psychologist Mairead Molloy says about money conversations: “Open and honest conversations about finances build trust and help create a sense of partnership. After all, you are supposed to be on the same team.”
To build confidence in these conversations, she suggests several tips:
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Go into discussions with a neutral mindset: “Money can be a tricky topic, but it doesn’t have to be if approached with respect and curiosity. Keeping the tone light and non-judgmental can make it feel less daunting.”
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Respect boundaries: “Talking about money with trusted people can give you different perspectives, advice, or even support if you are going through a tough time. Of course, it’s a personal topic, and not everyone will be comfortable with it, so it is important to respect boundaries.”
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Start with more general topics: “Talk about everyday spending or your financial goals for the future. Over time, it will become easier to tackle the bigger topics like budgeting or debt.”
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Practice until it feels more natural: “The key is to create a safe space for open dialogue. Over time, you will find that talking about money becomes much easier and less of a big deal.”
You can view the full research here.
