Lifestyles of the Ultra-affluent and HNWIs - UK - August 2012
Introduction
 
Ultra-affluents and HNWIs are relatively immune to the economic shocks, as their assets serve as a comfort blanket amidst economic uncertainty. This report examines the degree to which the financial security of this demographic impacts on their shopping habits in various categories. It also looks at their property and automotive ownership, charitable giving, technology habits, family activities and holiday habits, whilst also examining their consumer attitudes in each of those areas. Finally, the report looks at who the ultra-affluents and HNWIs are influenced by when they are making purchases, and examines whether status-seeking plays a role in their lifestyle and shopping habits. 

Methodology
Mintel conducted online consumer research in June 2012 on a sample of 310 internet users aged 20+ with £100,000+ total value of savings and investments (excluding property investments and the value of primary residence). 

Definitions
The ultra-affluent: adults with £100,000-£499,999 total value of savings and investments (excluding property investments and the value of primary residence).

HNWIs: adults with £500,000+ total value of savings and investments (excluding property investments and the value of primary residence).

Abbreviations
CGT	Capital Gains Tax	
GDP	Gross Domestic Product	
FSA	Financial Services Authority	
HAGI 	Historic Automobile Group International 	
HMRC	Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs	
HNWI	High Net Worth Individuals	
HSBC	Hong Kong-Shanghai Banking Corporation	
IoP	Investments of Passion	
LIBOR	London Interbank Offered Rate	
OBR	Office for Budget Responsibility	
ONS	Office for National Statistics	
RBS	Royal Bank of Scotland	
SMMT	The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders