**The Great Wealth Transfer: Millennials and Gen Zers Receive a Windfall, But Are They Ready?**
**Understanding the Great Wealth Transfer**
The forthcoming Great Wealth Transfer is set to benefit the younger generations, particularly millennials and Gen Zers. Boomers, who currently hold half of the wealth in the U.S., are expected to distribute a staggering $72 trillion to their offspring. While the transfer will also include some Gen Xers and Gen Zers, millennials, who were heavily impacted by the Great Recession, are likely to be the biggest winners. In fact, millennials are projected to be five times wealthier in 2030 than they were at the start of the decade.
**Financial Anxiety Among Inheritance Receivers**
Despite the potential financial windfall, a significant number of inheritance recipients feel unprepared to manage their newfound wealth. According to a report from New York Life, only 42% of U.S. adults who expect to receive an inheritance feel very comfortable handling the wealth. Millennials and Gen Zers are the least confident, with only 21% and 18% respectively feeling financially comfortable. Additionally, women are almost twice as likely as men to feel uneasy about their impending inheritance.
Suzanne Schmitt, Head of Financial Wellness at New York Life, attributes this lack of confidence to the economic hardships millennials and Gen Zers have experienced throughout their formative years. With events like the financial crisis of 2008 and the global pandemic, younger generations may be more risk-averse when it comes to their financial habits.
**Inflation Concerns and the Value of Inheritance**
Despite the potential substantial sum, many adults who expect an inheritance worry that inflation will reduce its value. This concern is shared by 58% of inheritance recipients. Suzanne Schmitt acknowledges that inflation has impacted everyone, including those passing down or receiving inheritances.
**The Impact on Millennials’ Financial Journey**
For millennials, this potential windfall has the power to dramatically transform their lives. Having faced the challenges of the Great Recession, the burden of student debt, and a rising cost of living, millennials have long been on a journey to achieve financial stability. They have aspired to reach milestones such as buying a house. While millennials have made progress in building wealth, experts predicted that the Great Wealth Transfer would be a significant boost to their financial track. However, factors such as inflation and anxiety over managing a large sum of money could create unforeseen problems for millennials. Furthermore, the value of money has decreased over time, making it less impactful than it used to be.
**Expectations vs. Reality: The Potential Inheritance Amount**
Millennials may not receive as much money as they anticipate. Another survey, conducted by Alliant Credit Union, revealed that 53% of millennials expect to inherit at least $350,000 from their parents. However, 55% of boomers reported that they plan to leave an inheritance of less than $250,000.
**Financial Anxiety and the Future**
The concerns millennials and Gen Zers have regarding their potential inheritance align with their overall financial anxiety. Suzanne Schmitt notes that these younger generations are more anxious about their current finances compared to older generations. This anxiety is expected to worsen as they age, especially as they become responsible for caregiving support for older family members.
**Preparing for the Inheritance**
While younger generations may have time on their side to work towards their long-term financial goals, preparing for the impending inheritance is more urgent. Suzanne Schmitt emphasizes the importance of addressing these financial matters sooner rather than later.
Overall, the Great Wealth Transfer presents a significant opportunity for millennials and Gen Zers to improve their financial standing. However, it also brings forth challenges and uncertainties. It is crucial for younger generations to seek financial education and guidance to effectively manage their newfound wealth and achieve financial security.
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