Gen Z Faces Uncertain Economic Future, According to CEO Assessment

Financial Report: Gen Z's Financial Outlook

Challenges Facing Gen Z

Gen Z workers are facing a tough reality in the job market, with flat wages, rising prices, and increased competition for entry-level jobs. According to a 2025 Bloomberg analysis, inflation-adjusted salaries for working-age graduates in the UK are now 30% lower than they were 15 years ago.

Financial Literacy and Debt

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Limited financial literacy is exacerbating the problem, with many young workers borrowing more to get by, particularly with high interest rates and slow wage growth. A significant decline in credit health has been observed, with Gen Z's average credit score falling to 676, 39 points below the national average.

Impact of AI on Entry-Level Jobs

The increasing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making it harder for young people to enter the workforce, replacing or reshaping many beginner-level tasks. This has resulted in a decline in traditional career paths, making it unpredictable for Gen Z workers to advance in their careers.

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USAA CEO Juan C. Andrade urges young workers to take responsibility for their own progress, stating that "nobody cares more about your career than you do." This emphasizes the importance of financial literacy, responsibility, and proactive career management for Gen Z workers to overcome the challenges they face.

Key Statistics:

• 58% of recent graduates are still looking for their first job (compared to 25% in previous generations)
• Average credit score for Gen Z: 676
• National average credit score: 715
• Inflation-adjusted salaries for working-age graduates in the UK: 30% lower than 15 years ago