Asset Diversification Key to Facing Global Economic Uncertainty
Amidst global economic uncertainty and pressure on the Rupiah exchange rate, asset diversification is considered a vital step in maintaining family financial stability, especially for the upper-middle class and high-net-worth (HNW) individuals.
Although the Indonesian economy continues to show positive performance, various external risks are seen as potentially affecting long-term financial planning. Indonesia’s economic growth in the first quarter of 2026 was recorded at 5.61% year-on-year, supported by strong household consumption, increased investment, accelerated government spending, and a recovery in the manufacturing sector.
Furthermore, inflation remains controlled at around 3%, the trade balance surplus continues, foreign exchange reserves are maintained, and unemployment rates show a downward trend. The government also continues to encourage investment and industrial downstreaming to maintain economic growth momentum.
However, challenges remain. Global geopolitical tensions, the global economic slowdown, commodity price volatility, and pressure on the Rupiah exchange rate are seen as factors that could increase risks to national economic stability. These conditions are prompting the public to be more careful in managing assets and investments.
PRESERVING WEALTH VALUE
Priskilla Fachruddin, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) at Prudential Indonesia, stated that an internal survey of upper-middle segment and HNW clients shows concerns regarding the ability to maintain wealth value amidst the weakening Rupiah.
“As many as 75% of respondents are worried that the Rupiah will continue to weaken, meaning that currently held assets could potentially lose value,” Priskilla said in a written statement.
According to her, the majority of respondents also consider it important to hold assets in foreign currencies as part of a wealth protection strategy. Approximately 69% of respondents believe that holding foreign currency-based assets is essential to support long-term financial security.
Additionally, 64% of respondents consider the US Dollar (USD) to be more stable than the Rupiah, while 56% stated that the currency provides a greater sense of security in maintaining asset value.
STRENGTHENING FINANCIAL FOUNDATIONS
Priskilla explained that in conditions of economic uncertainty, the public needs to strengthen their financial foundations through adequate liquidity and long-term protection.
“The first step that needs to be taken is to strengthen emergency funds by ensuring that living requirements for the next nine to 12 months are available. Routine obligations should also be placed in stable and easily liquidable instruments,” she said.
She added that long-term financial protection needs to be evaluated regularly to remain relevant to family needs and changing economic conditions.
In addition to strengthening emergency funds, investment portfolio diversification is considered a strategy that should be considered. According to Priskilla, the public can begin allocating part of their assets to global-based instruments or foreign currencies such as the US Dollar.
“It is important to diversify portfolios, including considering exposure to foreign currencies such as the USD or global investment assets. In this way, the risk does not depend on a single currency or a single source of investment return,” she said.
This strategy, Priskilla continued, can help maintain the purchasing power of family wealth in the future while ensuring fund readiness for various global-oriented needs, such as overseas education, international healthcare, and cross-generational inheritance planning.