Gen X dreads poverty over death as economic confidence hits five-year low
Seventy percent of Gen X fear running out of money more than death, well above Gen Z and millennials.
Gen X's confidence in the economy has fallen to about 60 points on the Consumer Confidence Index, its lowest level in five years. Gen Z and millennials hold steady around 90 to 100 points.
The gap shows a harsh squeeze: Gen X workers manage aging parents' care and kids' bills at the costliest life stage. Nearly half of Gen X say they lack confidence they can save enough to retire.
A Northwestern Mutual study found Gen X believes it needs $1.56 million to retire but has saved an average of just $108,600. Baby boomers feel even worse, with confidence below 50, also their lowest in years.
- 60 points, five-year low
- Gen X confidence index
- 70 percent
- Gen X fear poverty over death
- 1.45 million dollars
- Retirement savings gap
- 44 percent
- Gen X lacking retirement confidence
Why it mattersGen X's stress shows that mid-career workers face a serious squeeze before retirement. This could reshape consumer spending, demand for healthcare, and workforce choices in the years ahead.
AustraliaAustralian Gen X workers likely face similar pressure from property costs, retirement savings gaps, and caring for ageing parents, making this economic anxiety relevant to local workers in their 50s.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
