Less financial stability, smaller social safety nets: inside the gen Z investing boom
Gen Z is entering financial markets earlier than previous generations, driven by economic uncertainty, technological access, and limited social safety nets. Despite early risks like cryptocurrency volatility, many are adopting cautious strategies such as long-term ETF investing. This shift reflects both necessity and the influence of fintech tools that simplify investing.
- ▪Nearly 30% of gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, began investing in early adulthood, compared to 15% of millennials and 9% of gen X.
- ▪Gen Z faces higher unemployment and rising consumer prices, with shrinking social welfare and employer-sponsored retirement plans.
- ▪About 75% of gen Z hold ETFs in retirement accounts, compared to 60% of baby boomers.
- ▪Ambrico Ranginui, after losing money in crypto, now invests in lithium, robotics, and AI and works as an investment analyst.
- ▪Technology and fintech apps like Sharesies have lowered barriers to entry for young investors.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
‘Nearly 30% of the generation born between 1997 and 2012 started putting money into markets in early adulthood.’ Composite: Rita Liu/The Guardian/Getty ImagesView image in fullscreen‘Nearly 30% of the generation born between 1997 and 2012 started putting money into markets in early adulthood.’ Composite: Rita Liu/The Guardian/Getty ImagesBusinessLess financial stability, smaller social safety nets: inside the gen Z investing boomApps, AI tools and shaky job prospects are pushing gen Z into markets earlier, blending caution with risk-takingJenna ZazaSat 2 May 2026 07.00 EDTLast modified on Sat 2 May 2026 07.02 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleAmbrico Ranginui first heard of cryptocurrencies when he was 12 years old.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at the Guardian.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from the Guardian
