When most people hear the term “wealth management,” they assume it’s only for millionaires with investment portfolios and private banking relationships. But here’s the truth: financial planning is for everyone—especially those who don’t yet consider themselves wealthy.

The past few years have shown us how quickly financial stability can be disrupted. Whether it’s a job loss, an unexpected emergency, or a global crisis, having a financial plan in place can make a huge difference in how you weather the storm.

The Misconception of “Wealth Management”

There’s a popular myth that only the rich need to manage their money. But that idea misses a crucial point—wealth doesn’t come first. Planning does. You build wealth by managing what you have, even if it’s not much right now.

According to a Global Wealth Report by Credit Suisse, only about 6 percent of Americans are considered “wealthy,” with a net worth of $1 million or more. That leaves the vast majority—94 percent of us—outside of that elite bracket. But that doesn’t mean financial literacy and planning aren’t for us. In fact, it’s quite the opposite.

Why Financial Literacy Matters

More than half of Americans don’t use a budget, and many don’t know how much they spent in the past month. Shockingly, almost half of American households had no savings in retirement accounts and average hundreds of dollars a year in avoidable fees like overdrafts and late payments.

These stats reflect a broader issue: a lack of confidence and understanding when it comes to money. Building financial literacy means learning how to:

• Create a budget that reflects your lifestyle and goals

• Save consistently, even in small amounts

• Avoid unnecessary debt

• Plan for short- and long-term financial goals

You don’t need to become a financial expert—you just need to start with the basics.

Start Financial Planning Where You Are

Whether you’re living paycheck to paycheck or enjoying a stable income, there’s never a bad time to take control of your finances. Start small: track your spending for a month, build a basic budget, or open a savings account just for emergencies.

If you’re not sure where to begin, consider working with a financial professional. They can help you set goals, make smart choices, and create a roadmap for your future.

It’s not about how much you make—it’s about how well you manage what you have.

Financial planning is not reserved for the ultra-wealthy. It’s a vital step toward a more secure and empowered life. The earlier you start, the more options you’ll have later.

It wasn’t long ago that Boomers and Gen Xers were lamenting the rise of Millennials. But the generational spotlight has shifted. Now, it’s Gen Z and the up-and-coming Generation Alpha who are stepping into the world—and bringing with them a new set of financial challenges.

Who Are Gen Z and Gen Alpha?

It wasn’t long ago that Boomers and Gen Xers were lamenting the rise of Millennials. But the generational spotlight has shifted. Now, it’s Gen Z and the up-and-coming Generation Alpha who are stepping into the world—and bringing with them a new set of financial challenges.

Who Are Gen Z and Gen Alpha?

Gen Z, also called “Zoomers,” includes those born between 1997 and 2012. They’re currently between 9 and 24 years old, making up nearly 68 million people in the U.S. Generation Alpha follows, with children born starting in 2012 and expected to continue through at least 2025. This youngest generation is already more than 48 million strong in the U.S. alone.

Here’s a quick generational breakdown in terms of current U.S. population:

• Baby Boomers (Ages 57–75): ~71.6 million

• Gen X (Ages 41–56): ~65.2 million

• Millennials (Ages 25–40): ~72.1 million

• Gen Z (Ages 9–24): ~68 million

• Gen Alpha (Born 2012 onward): ~48 million

Influence Is Everything

Millennials—many of whom are now parents—once led the charge in digital culture. But their kids are the ones shaping the future of consumer behavior. A recent survey shows that 37% of parents say their children ask for toys or gadgets because their friends have them. Another 22% say online influencers play a major role in what their kids want.

This early exposure to digital marketing and peer influence only underscores the importance of equipping kids with solid financial knowledge from an early age.

Financial Stress Starts Young

Financial anxiety isn’t waiting until adulthood to take hold. A study by Junior Achievement USA and Citizens Bank found that 54% of teens worry about how they’ll finance their future. Rising tuition costs are a major concern—almost 70% said those expenses have changed their post-high school plans.

One possible reason? A lack of financial education. More than 40% of teens say they haven’t taken a financial literacy class in school. Nearly as many believe that simply understanding how student loans work would help ease their concerns.

As David Beckerman of David Lerner Associates puts it, “Gaining a better understanding of financial basics and developing good fiscal habits are the best way to stay in control of your money and financial future.”

Tools to Build Financial Confidence

The good news is there are more resources than ever to help parents, teachers, and teens improve financial literacy. Here are a few accessible platforms and tools:

• NerdWallet: Offers easy-to-understand guides, calculators, and articles covering everything from budgeting and student loans to investing and credit cards.

• Greenlight: A debit card and app for kids that lets parents manage spending, set savings goals, and even automate allowances. It’s a hands-on way to teach money management.

• Cash App: While primarily used for peer-to-peer payments, Cash App also includes features like a debit card, savings options, and even investment tools that can introduce older teens to basic banking and finance.

• Khan Academy: Provides free courses and videos on personal finance, economics, and money basics—great for students and educators alike.

• Junior Achievement: Offers in-school programs and digital content designed to teach financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and career readiness.

The Bottom Line

Financial literacy isn’t just about knowing how to balance a checkbook—it’s about building a mindset that helps young people feel empowered to make smart, informed decisions. And while schools and institutions may lag behind, parents and mentors have the tools today to help bridge the gap.

Start early. Stay consistent. And don’t underestimate how powerful a little financial education can be in shaping a confident, capable next generation.

As Generation Z women navigate the complexities of early adulthood, a concerning trend has emerged: despite being the most educated generation, they face significant challenges in financial literacy, exacerbating economic stress and hindering long-term financial stability.​

Financial Literacy Deficit Intensifies Economic Strain

Recent studies indicate that Gen Z women report the highest levels of financial stress among all age groups. Factors contributing to this include stagnant wages, mounting student loan debt, and the persistent gender wage gap, where women earn approximately 82 cents for every dollar earned by men.

Compounding these issues is a lack of formal financial education. Less than 10% of Americans receive financial education in school, leaving many young women ill-equipped to manage personal finances effectively. 

Digital Resources Offer Pathways to Financial Empowerment

Despite these challenges, Gen Z women are leveraging digital platforms to bridge the financial literacy gap. Online courses, budgeting apps like Mint and YNAB, and financial literacy podcasts provide accessible avenues for learning.

Financial experts emphasize the importance of building strong financial foundations through budgeting, emergency savings, and early investment. Starting to invest, even with modest means, can be a powerful tool for wealth accumulation over time.

Cultural Shifts and the Rise of Financial Influencers

A cultural shift is also underway, with a growing number of female financial influencers, or “finfluencers,” making financial advice more relatable and inclusive. These individuals, often sharing personal experiences and addressing systemic inequalities, are resonating with younger audiences and democratizing financial education. ​

Addressing the financial literacy gap among Gen Z women is crucial for fostering economic stability and independence.By embracing digital resources, building foundational financial skills, and challenging traditional norms, young women can take control of their financial futures.​

Sources:

• David Lerner Associates: The Financial Literacy Gap: How Gen Z Women Can Take Control of Their Financial Future​
• MarketWatch: Money advice needed a makeover. Inside the rise of the female ‘finfluencer.’​MarketWatch
• New York Life: Survey highlights existing financial confidence and knowledge gaps between men and women​New York Life+1Her Agenda+1
• Her Agenda: Survey: Women Want To Close The Financial Literacy Gap​Her Agenda
• Australian Broker News: Gen Z women face more financial stress than men – study​