HSBC Bank International on Wednesday announced the results of the world’s largest survey of expats, Expat Explorer, revealing the significant impact that the current economic crisis has had on expats’ finances.
 
The first instalment of this year’s survey, Expat Economics, showed that expats have reduced spending across the board, with the UK and US identified as having the greatest number of expats considering a move home.
 
Expat Explorer, now in its second year, surveyed over 3,100 expats from more than 50 countries and is the largest survey of its kind, with 46 percent more respondents than last year. Expat Economics is the first of three reports on the results and is a new addition to this year’s survey which looks at expats’ economic quality of life.
 
Paul Say, HSBC's Head of Marketing and Communications, noted that this year’s survey offered interesting insights into a dynamic segment of the world’s population, and also stands as a key indicator into how expats had been affected by global economic events.
 
“Last year’s survey gave us some really valuable insights into such a fascinating group of people and we are pleased to see even more expats participating in this year’s survey,” said Say.

 
“As the world continues to undergo a significant economic shift, we are seeing some interesting patterns amongst the expat population, particularly in the changes to their spending habits.  Despite expats in the UK and US considering a move home, we also found that the majority of expats are staying put despite growing employment uncertainty across many regions.”
 
Key findings

• US, Thailand and South Africa most affected expat locations.
• Almost half of expats in UK considering returning home.
• Emerging markets rank above established centres for expat finances.
• UK worst for saving behind Spain and France.
• Despite economic crisis, expats are wealthier and save more than in country of origin.

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