CNO Financial Group Inc. reported results from a consumer sentiment survey of middle-income Americans ages 50 to 85 showing declining retirement confidence. The survey found 32% are less confident in their retirement plans than a year ago, 41% doubt they will have enough money to live comfortably throughout retirement (49% among pre-retirees), and 44% feel more anxious about their personal finances, with pre-retirees more likely than retirees to say they are “much more anxious” (24% vs. 12%). Inflation was cited as the top concern (27%), followed by outliving savings (23%) and potential Social Security cuts (18%). The survey also found 43% are less confident Social Security will be available when needed, 47% believe Medicare benefits will be cut, and pre-retirees were more likely than retirees to say they are “much less confident” in Social Security (19% vs. 7%) and Medicare (18% vs. 6%).

Disclaimer: This news brief was created by Public Technologies (PUBT) using generative artificial intelligence. While PUBT strives to provide accurate and timely information, this AI-generated content is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as financial, investment, or legal advice. CNO Financial Group Inc. published the original content used to generate this news brief via PR Newswire (Ref. ID: 202602180915PR_NEWS_USPR_____DE87865) on February 18, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained therein.