It’s no secret that both political parties are unpopular.
This is particularly true of Gen Z, which polls suggest feels like it is set to inherit a political system riddled with partisan hostility and congressional gridlock.
A report from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Agora Institute at Johns Hopkins University found that 62 percent of adults aged 18-29 said that the design and structure of our nation’s government needs significant changes, no matter which party is elected. Additionally, 58 percent said the party they identify with needs to dramatically change.
*The study’s conclusions pointed out that older generations have longer histories with politics (duh) and have lived through a mix of both steady and unstable leadership. *
*They have been able to ground themselves in the political framework produced by prominent leaders, like former Presidents Reagan and Obama, the study cites. *
Gen Z, in contrast, grew up or continues to grow up through volatility with fewer frames of political reference, which makes it harder to feel anchored by today’s politicians and system overall.
*At the same time, Gen Z is less likely to describe the opposing political party as “evil” or “less than human.”
Hopefully generation Z can affect change politically that result in macroeconomic change resulting in less bought politicians controlled by wealthy oligarchs and corporate interests resulting in a more level economic playing field with less income inequality.
When markets wobble, Gen Z doesn’t: they’re betting big on alternative assets. Dubbed the ‘soon-to-be wealthiest generation,’ Gen Z is growing its net worth while mistrusting traditional markets—making collectibles, like sneakers and sports memorabilia, the coveted investment darlings of their generation.
A 2024 Bank of America Survey of Wealthy Americans found that investors aged 43 and under ranked real estate investments, crypto and digital assets, private equity, and personal company/brand as areas with the most significant opportunity for growth.
According to a 2014 Deloitte report on Arts, collectibles, and wealth management, many high-net-worth individuals intentionally choose arts investments as inflation hedges. Inflation hedges are investments designed to protect against the decreasing purchasing power of a currency—typically through rising prices or inflation. When the market is unstable, investing in alternative assets could be a safer bet–they are expected to either maintain their current value or appreciate.
I say bonne chance to generation z. Especially in regard to their desire to effect political change that could benefit ALL Americans economically.
I hope an evolution of the United States rather than another revolution similar to what the French had.