Saving Money Top of Investor’s Goals for 2009

Sixty percent of Americans surveyed by TD Ameritrade said their No. 1 resolution for 2009 was saving more money, not losing weight or eating better. Forty-three percent said there are more likely to have personal finance-related resolutions for 2009 than they were two years ago.

Nearly all, 92%, of the respondents felt confident that they could manage their money responsibly, though more than half are interested in learning more about personal finance in order to do a better job of it. Just over 50% said that managing their finances is harder than it used to be.

On the list of the resolutions that Americans think they will be able to keep is starting or building retirement savings. They are also confident about spending more time with family, paying off debt, starting or building an investment portfolio and having more fun.

Resolutions they aren’t so sure about keeping include: relaxing or reducing stress, making for time for themselves, sticking to a weight-loss or exercise plan and eating better.