How Millenials & Gen Z Invest in 2024
By Imani Williams
Gen Z and Millennials have a different approach to investing. And that pretty much changed the financial landscape!
Unlike previous generations, who often relied on traditional financial advisors or were hesitant to dive into the stock market, today's young investors are leveraging technology and innovative platforms to take control of their financial futures. Here's a closer look at how these generations are transforming the investment landscape.
1. The Rise of Fintech Apps
Fintech (financial technology) apps have become the go-to tools for young investors. Platforms like Robinhood, Acorns, and Stash have democratized investing, making it accessible to almost anyone with a smartphone. These apps offer user-friendly interfaces, low or no fees, and the ability to start investing with just a few dollars, making them particularly appealing to those who are new to the market.
Key Appeal: The simplicity and accessibility of these apps allow Gen Z and Millennials to invest on their own terms, without the need for significant capital or deep financial knowledge. The ability to buy fractional shares, for instance, enables them to invest in high-profile companies without needing to purchase an entire share, which can be prohibitively expensive.
If you want to know more about these apps and how you can take advantage, check out this article on Top 5 Investment Apps for Beginners.
2. Social Investing and Community Engagement
Another trend among younger investors is the rise of social investing. Platforms like eToro and Public allow users to see and copy the trades of others, fostering a community-based approach to investing. This social aspect taps into the collaborative nature of Gen Z and Millennials, who often seek peer advice and validation before making decisions.
Key Appeal: Social investing platforms provide a sense of community and shared experience, allowing users to learn from each other. The transparency and social proof offered by these platforms are crucial for building trust and confidence in their investment choices.
Social Investing and Community Engagement can also happen on social media. Investor share their thoughts & findings and build a supportive community on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. If you want to know more, check out this article on Social Media & Investment Trends: How to Use It to Your Advantage.
3. Sustainable and Ethical Investing
Younger generations are also more likely to prioritize sustainability and ethics in their investment decisions. Platforms like Betterment and Wealthsimple have responded by offering portfolios focused on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. This trend reflects a broader desire among Gen Z and Millennials to align their financial activities with their values.
Key Appeal: The ability to invest in companies that align with their personal values—such as those focused on renewable energy, social justice, or ethical business practices—is a significant draw. It allows these investors to feel that their money is not just growing but also contributing to positive change.
4. Education and Gamification
Innovative platforms are also using education and gamification to engage younger investors. Apps like Invstr and Stockpile incorporate educational resources and game-like elements to make learning about investing fun and accessible. These features help demystify investing and encourage users to develop their financial literacy in an engaging way.
Key Appeal: By making the process of learning about investing enjoyable and interactive, these platforms are lowering the barrier to entry. Gamification and educational tools cater to the learning preferences of younger generations, who are used to interactive and visually engaging content.
If you want more educational resources for the black community specifically, check out our article, Financial Empowerment: Investing Resources for the Black Community. And be sure to subscribe to The Black Currency for more financial literacy content.
Conclusion
Through innovative platforms that offer accessibility, community, ethical options, and gamified education, young investors are taking control of their financial futures in ways that are both empowering and aligned with their values. As these trends continue to evolve, the influence of these generations on the world of investing is likely to grow even stronger.