Recent graduates get wealth-building advice on retirement, debt, savings and credit scores
Updated
Updated · MarketWatch · May 8
Recent graduates get wealth-building advice on retirement, debt, savings and credit scores
9 articles · Updated · MarketWatch · May 8
Experts say Class of 2026 should prioritise 401(k) matches, tackle student loans above 5% interest and build cash reserves, as only 39% of Gen Z report feeling financially secure.
Advisers including Clifford Cornell, David Johnston and Ryan Catanese recommend Roth 401(k)s for many early-career workers, minimum loan payments to protect credit, and high-yield accounts for emergency savings.
They also urge graduates to review health-insurance choices carefully, avoid lifestyle creep as salaries rise, and start credit histories with manageable card use and on-time monthly payments.
With federal loan options drastically cut, how can new graduates afford advanced degrees needed for an AI-driven economy?
As AI eliminates traditional entry-level jobs, what new career paths should the Class of 2026 pursue for long-term stability?
Is Gen Z's turn to crypto and sports betting a sign of financial nihilism, or a rational response to a broken system?