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Manulife Life Insurance's Inaugural Longevity Economy Forum

On January 19, 2023, Manulife Life Insurance Company, led by CEO Ryan Sherrard, hosted the inaugural Longevity Economy Forum in collaboration with the Sankei Shimbun. This forum drew approximately 350 participants and focused on the significant challenge of ensuring financial well-being during Japan's era of extended lifespans, often referred to as the '100-Year Life' phenomenon.

Japan boasts one of the highest life expectancies globally, but many face growing anxiety regarding their financial security in retirement. According to the Asia Care Survey 2025, a staggering 77% of Japanese respondents expressed concerns about their retirement funds. The forum highlighted concrete strategies to extend asset longevity in order to live without financial anxiety during old age, discussing practical steps such as diversification in investments, early planning, and family discussions. Interactive elements like live voting and graphic recording helped to visualize the participants’ voices, creating a bridge from fear to action.

Keynote Address: "Doing Nothing is the Greatest Risk"

Renowned financial analyst Mariko Mabuchi, serving as the representative director of the Japan Financial Economic Research Institute, delivered a keynote address titled "Strategies for Retirement Preparation in Uncertain Times." She emphasized that in the context of rising prices and declining real wages, maintaining the status quo is an illusion and the greatest risk lies in inaction. Mabuchi pointed out the increasing disparity between those who invest and those who do not. She encouraged participants to begin asset planning with a reverse-thought approach, asking themselves, "What kind of life do I want to live?" Using the power of compound interest to make time their ally, she urged participants to take early action.

Mabuchi provided practical, actionable advice for attendees:
1. Design a financial plan based on the life they wish to lead.
2. Utilize NISA, insurance, and diversified investments while consulting a financial planner.
3. Invest diversely to tackle inflation and yen depreciation.

Panel Discussion: Turning Anxiety into Action

The panel discussion centered around making thoughtful choices for a fulfilling life in the 100-Year Era, featuring former Japan Women's National Soccer Team captain Homare Sawa, Professor Tetsuhiro Inoue from Keio University, and President Shinichi Yamamoto of Manulife Investment Management. Each panelist shared insights from their experiences, sparking meaningful dialogue.

Sawa shared her reflections on motherhood, stating, "When I think about my future, I don’t want to be a burden to my children; I want to leave them something valuable. Thus, it’s essential to plan not just for offensive investments but also for protective ones." She mentioned her proactive approach of discussing financial planning with her family and seeking financial advisory services.

Professor Inoue pointed out that many Japanese people hesitate to act due to a strong tendency to procrastinate and a fear of losing money, resulting in inaction. He highlighted the importance of breaking down anxieties into manageable parts to facilitate decision-making and action.

Additionally, Yamamoto noted that a lack of time to think about retirement is another contributing factor to inaction. "It’s crucial to clarify future design plans while still in active working life. Differences in action during times of inflation can lead to significant disparities in retirement savings. Early action can lead to manageable investments," he advised.

He also reinforced the point that only about 20% of people in Japan consult financial planners, which is lower than in many other countries. However, those who do report a higher sense of security in their financial management. Inoue added that societal norms make discussing finances a personal matter, which contributes to the hesitation in seeking advice. Seeking consultation can help articulate anxieties, reduce psychological burdens, and overcome biases that may hinder action.

Manulife Life's Commitment to the Longevity Economy Institute in Japan

Ryan Sherrard, CEO of Manulife Life, addressed the paradox of longevity in Japan, stating, "Longevity is not merely about adding years to life but about living those years well through balancing health, economy, and psychological well-being. Dialogue generates action, and action transforms the future."

The forum also unveiled the launch of the Manulife Longevity Institute in Japan. This global platform aims to leverage insights, research, and partnerships to foster knowledge and contribute to a global understanding, providing a comprehensive support system for families as they plan for their futures.

With over 100 years of global expertise in actuarial science and risk assessment, Manulife distinguishes itself by understanding how longevity, health, and financial behaviors evolve over time. The company offers integrated financial solutions across all life stages—from asset accumulation to retirement planning, legacy transfer, and beyond—empowering individuals to turn financial anxieties into confidence.

Highlights and useful information from the forum will be available on the website for the Longevity Economy Institute Japan program. This aims to support each individual's 'first step' towards better health, asset formation, and economic stability.

About Manulife Life Insurance

Manulife Life Insurance is a subsidiary of Manulife Financial Corporation, a prominent financial services group based in Canada. Under the brand message "Making Confident Choices in Life," the company offers tailored solutions in life insurance, retirement planning, and asset formation to support customers towards a better future. Combining global expertise with localized knowledge in the Japanese market, Manulife is dedicated to fostering long-term economic well-being.