A Survey-based Analysis of Irish Savings Behaviour by Age. ESRI Research Notes 2014/01/01

The savings behaviour of Irish households in recent years has often been described as precautionary. Domestic and international crises have lead to heightened uncertainty, persistent unemployment and low economic growth. At the same time, personal disposable income and personal consumption expenditure have been reduced. The difference between them (personal savings) has been large, despite a very low interest rate environment. The personal savings ratio has increased from an average of 4 per cent of disposable income for 2001-2007 to 8 per cent on average for 2008-2012