Sarthak Ahuja Explains Why Millennials and Gen Z Are Struggling Financially

Finance influencer Sarthak Ahuja breaks down why the socio-financial rules that worked for previous generations no longer apply today. The economic landscape has shifted dramatically, leaving younger generations struggling to adapt.

The Vanishing Dream of Home Ownership:

For our parents, buying a house was achievable. A property worth three times their annual income could compound in value over 20 years. Today, real estate prices have skyrocketed to nearly 30 times annual income, making home ownership unattainable for most. This single shift has disrupted the traditional wealth-building model.

No More Job Security or Pensions:

Earlier generations could work in one company for decades and retire with a pension. That concept is extinct. Today's workforce faces contractual jobs, gig work, and zero long-term security. Retirement planning is now an individual responsibility, adding immense pressure on young professionals.

Social Media and the Illusion of Insufficiency:

Comparison used to be limited to neighbors and relatives. Now, social media exposes Millennials and Gen Z to curated lifestyles worldwide. Even earning ₹3–4 lakhs per month feels inadequate when constantly bombarded with images of luxury vacations and designer living. This fuels dissatisfaction and risky financial behavior.

The Rise of Risky Investments:

Patience as a virtue has vanished. Instead of waiting 20 years for compounding, people chase quick wins, stocks, crypto, gaming bets, and prediction markets. The FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) is so intense that individuals ignore the fact that 99% lose money in such ventures. Yet, everyone believes they can be the 1% who beat the odds.

The Business of Selling Hope:

Broking apps, gaming platforms, prediction markets, and “life-changing” courses thrive because they sell hope. While these businesses boom, they are net negative for 99% of users. The harsh truth: most will lose, but the illusion of certainty keeps them hooked.

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