Dimensions of Financial Stress among Agribusiness Employees: Evaluating Debt, Income Adequacy, Expenses, Emergency Savings and Economic Instability

This study examined the levels and sources of financial stress experienced by employees within the agribusiness sector, specifically focusing on increasing liabilities, insufficient income, high expenses, lack of emergency savings, and economic instability. Utilizing a descriptive-correlational research design, data were collected from 103 employees of an agribusiness company in the Philippines. The findings revealed significant financial stress among participants across all examined indicators. Increasing liabilities, insufficient income, and high expenses consistently contributed to elevated stress levels, negatively impacting participants’ job satisfaction, mental health, and workplace productivity. A pronounced lack of emergency savings further heightened participants' anxiety, reducing their sense of financial security and overall well-being. Additionally, economic instability significantly influenced participants' financial planning behaviours, prompting proactive strategies to mitigate potential risks. These results underscore the critical importance of addressing financial stress through organizational interventions aimed at enhancing financial literacy, promoting effective financial management practices, and supporting overall employee financial wellness.