A recent analysis by the New York Federal Reserve reveals a significant surge in the wealth of Millennials and Gen Z, attributed largely to the booming stock market. However, despite this rapid growth, younger Americans still lag far behind Baby Boomers in terms of total wealth.
Youthful Prosperity: An 80% Growth Spurt
Between the first quarter of 2019 and the third quarter of 2023, inflation-adjusted wealth for Americans under the age of 40 skyrocketed by an astonishing 80%. This growth far outpaced that of older generations, with wealth for those aged 40 to 54 growing by 10% and those 55 and older growing by 30% during the same period.
Despite this remarkable growth, younger Americans continue to hold significantly less wealth compared to their older counterparts. By the third quarter of 2023, those under 40 held $9.5 trillion in wealth, a fraction of the $103.7 trillion held by those 55 and older.
However, the gap has slightly narrowed since the pandemic, with the share of total U.S. wealth held by those under 40 increasing from 4.9% in 2019 to 6.7% in 2023.
Stocks and Stimulus: Driving Factors Behind Growth
Researchers attribute much of the growth in wealth among younger Americans to assets such as mutual funds and stocks, rather than real estate. The unexpected surge in wealth is partly attributed to the investment or saving of pandemic-era stimulus checks, as well as the higher propensity of young people to invest in equities.
While wealth has grown broadly across the board, racial and ethnic disparities persist and have worsened since the pandemic. Black Americans have seen their total wealth decline since 2019, while white Americans have experienced significant growth.
The differing asset holdings between racial groups, particularly in terms of equities, contribute to these disparities.
Growing Wealth, Growing Inequality
Despite the overall growth in wealth, particularly among younger generations, disparities persist along racial and ethnic lines. While some demographic groups have benefited from surging markets and investments, others have experienced declines, exacerbating existing inequalities.
What do you think? How can policymakers address the widening wealth gap between different demographic groups?
What role should government stimulus programs play in narrowing wealth disparities and promoting economic equity? How can financial education and investment opportunities be made more accessible to marginalized communities to promote wealth accumulation?
