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Cha ching queen living a big life on a little budget.
ByChaChingQueen Updated onNovember 27, 2024 Reading Time: 13 minutes
Home » Money Matters » Make Money » 20 Game-Changing Trends Gen Z Is Investing in Right Now

20 Game-Changing Trends Gen Z Is Investing in Right Now

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A person in glasses sits at a desk with a laptop, books, and a green apple. A "GO GREEN" sign and potted plants are in the background.
Image Credit: DepositPhotos

Gen Z is redefining investing, blending financial growth with causes they care about deeply. Their approach reflects a powerful desire to align money with values, marking a stark departure from previous generations. This shift is reshaping industries and challenging traditional norms.

A recent study highlighted that Gen Z begins investing at an average age of 23, compared to 27 for Millennials and even later for older generations like Gen X and Baby Boomers. These differences influence markets and signal changing priorities.

In this article, we’ll get into 20 groundbreaking ways Gen Z is reshaping the investment landscape. Covering tech startups addressing social issues to digital currencies and sustainable brands, these choices redefine what it means to invest with purpose.

What trends do you think will have the most lasting impact? Share your thoughts as you dive into this fascinating exploration of Gen Z’s bold investments!

Table of Contents

  • Sustainable and Ethical Businesses
  • Socially Responsible Tech Startups
  • Cryptocurrency
  • Health and Wellness Brands
  • Minimalist Wardrobes
  • E-Gaming and Esports
  • Affordable Housing Projects
  • Online Education Platforms
  • Alternative Transportation
  • Functional Furniture
  • Virtual Real Estate
  • Plant-Based Food Innovations
  • Second-Hand Electronics
  • Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
  • Mental Health Apps
  • Reusable Product Companies
  • Community-Focused Coworking Spaces
  • AI-Powered Content Creation Tools
  • Green Energy Storage
  • Urban Agriculture Initiatives
  • How Gen Z is Changing the Norm

Sustainable and Ethical Businesses

Person arranging handmade soap bars on a table, surrounded by bowls of spices and coffee beans.

Gen Z prioritizes values like sustainability and ethics in their investment choices. Many seek companies that practice environmental responsibility, promote fair labor, and minimize harm. This generation sees investing as a way to drive positive change while earning returns. 

Ethical investing provides a sense of purpose. By choosing firms with strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) scores, Gen Z can connect personal beliefs to financial growth. These investments appeal emotionally and financially, offering returns while fostering systemic change. 

Corporations are now responding with policies that resonate with these values. This approach also reflects a long-term view. Supporting sustainable businesses often means backing innovation and future-proofing.

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Socially Responsible Tech Startups

A person adjusts a small wind turbine model on a desk with computer monitors displaying wind farm simulations in the background.
Image Credit: iStock

Tech startups solving social issues resonate with Gen Z. Innovations addressing climate change, mental health, or education receive significant attention. These startups represent opportunities to profit while supporting meaningful causes.

Gen Z sees tech as a tool for transformation. Backing companies creating solutions to real-world problems aligns with their optimistic view of technology’s role in progress. These investments often focus on scalability and innovation.

Many startups are transparent about their missions, making it easy for investors to connect. By investing in socially responsible tech, Gen Z supports innovation that aligns with their desire to make the world better.

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Cryptocurrency

A laptop displaying a cryptocurrency trading chart and data is placed on a glass table next to a notebook and pen. Two decorative vases are in the background by a window.

Cryptocurrency is the most common investment held by Gen Z investors. Decentralized and tech-driven, they embody the generation’s distrust of traditional systems and their love of innovation. Bitcoin and Ethereum lead the pack, but newer coins with unique utilities also attract attention.

For Gen Z, crypto offers more than financial returns. Its decentralized nature aligns with their values of autonomy and transparency. Many are drawn to its revolutionary potential and the idea of creating alternative economies.

The volatile market doesn’t deter them. Instead, it’s viewed as an opportunity for big returns. Despite risks, crypto’s promise of innovation ensures its continued appeal among young investors.

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Health and Wellness Brands

Person checking heart rate on a smartphone app, wearing a smartwatch on their other wrist.
Image Credit: iStock

Gen Z’s focus on self-care extends to their investments. Health-focused companies, including organic food producers, fitness tech, and wellness apps, often attract their attention. This aligns with their lifestyle, which prioritizes mental and physical well-being.

These investments reflect a desire to promote healthy living. By supporting companies that prioritize wellness, Gen Z connects their financial goals with personal values. This dual purpose makes these choices particularly rewarding.

The growing health-conscious market ensures these investments remain lucrative. Companies catering to these trends often expand rapidly, offering consistent opportunities for returns.

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Minimalist Wardrobes

Woman sitting on the floor holding folded clothes, surrounded by more folded clothing, in a living room setting.

Gen Z invests in minimalist wardrobes, focusing on fewer, high-quality items that align with their personal style. They avoid excessive shopping and instead choose versatile, timeless pieces. This trend reflects their preference for intentional consumption.

Brands promoting capsule wardrobes or sustainable basics gain their loyalty. They see minimalism as practical and eco-friendly. Simplifying their closets also helps reduce decision fatigue in daily life.

This trend highlights their desire for simplicity and sustainability. Minimalist wardrobes emphasize thoughtful choices over quantity. It’s a reflection of their modern and conscious lifestyle.

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E-Gaming and Esports

Person in a pink hoodie and beanie, wearing a headset, sits at a desk gaming on a computer. A ring light and streaming equipment are visible. The room is decorated with string lights.
Image Credit: iStock

E-gaming and esports are massive industries with increasing appeal. Gen Z’s deep connection to gaming makes them natural investors in this space. They see potential in streaming platforms, game developers, and professional esports teams.

Gaming represents entertainment and community. Investors see opportunities in platforms that bring people together or introduce innovative gameplay. These investments often feel personal, as they reflect hobbies and interests.

The industry’s rapid growth promises significant returns. With new technologies like VR and AR entering the scene, the gaming world continues to evolve, offering fresh opportunities for investment.

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Affordable Housing Projects

Row of three attached townhouses with different facades: blue siding, red brick, and beige siding. Each has a front door, windows, and minimal landscaping.
Image Credit: Pexels

Gen Z supports projects addressing housing affordability. Rising rent and home prices make this issue personal, driving interest in solutions like micro-housing and co-living spaces. These investments reflect their desire to solve pressing societal challenges.

Affordable housing investments often combine financial returns with social impact. Supporting accessible options helps tackle inequality while meeting growing demand. This dual-purpose approach resonates strongly with this generation.

By choosing this sector, Gen Z investors contribute to reshaping housing markets. These projects aim to provide innovative, sustainable, and inclusive living options, directly addressing current challenges.

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Online Education Platforms

Person wearing headphones holds up charts during a video call in a bright room with a laptop and books on the desk.

Education platforms that democratize learning appeal to Gen Z. Many invest in companies offering accessible, high-quality resources for learners worldwide. These platforms reflect their belief in education as a tool for empowerment.

Investing in education aligns with their values. It supports equal access to knowledge while providing opportunities for profit. Platforms offering courses in coding, business, or personal development often see strong growth.

These investments also reflect a shift toward lifelong learning. By backing innovative education solutions, Gen Z invests in the future of knowledge-sharing and personal growth.

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Alternative Transportation

Person in jeans and sneakers standing on an electric scooter, with a garden and pathway in the background.
Image Credit: iStock

Gen Z invests in alternative transportation methods like e-scooters, bikes, and carpooling apps. These options are cost-effective and eco-friendly. Many prefer these choices for short commutes and city travel.

Brands promoting shared transportation systems resonate with their values. They appreciate reducing their carbon footprint while saving time and money. Convenience plays a big role in this trend.

This shift highlights their focus on practicality and sustainability. Alternative transportation aligns with their urban lifestyles. It reflects a commitment to smarter and greener mobility.

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Functional Furniture

A multifunctional bed with built-in shelves, seating, and a foldable table, set in a modern room with large windows and decorative elements.

Gen Z gravitates toward functional furniture designed for small spaces, like foldable desks and multi-purpose seating. These pieces make home organization easier. Many prioritize practicality when choosing decor.

Brands offering affordable, space-saving designs catch their attention. They value items that enhance their living environments without clutter. Functional furniture creates a balance between style and utility.

This trend reflects their focus on efficiency and modern living. By investing in smart furniture, they make the most of their spaces. It’s a reflection of their adaptable and thoughtful lifestyle.

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Virtual Real Estate

A person wearing a virtual reality headset interacts with a VR environment in front of a laptop on a wooden desk, perhaps pausing to reflect on how 21 Things That Become Less Important As You Get Older includes spending time in such immersive experiences.

Virtual real estate, such as land in the metaverse, has become a compelling option for Gen Z investors. Platforms like Decentraland and The Sandbox offer opportunities to own, develop, and sell digital spaces. 

This trend represents a fusion of technology, creativity, and finance, appealing to their innovative mindset. This investment reflects a futuristic outlook. Owning virtual properties offers status, potential profit, and the ability to shape online environments. 

These spaces often become venues for virtual events, shops, or interactive art installations. The market’s growth suggests sustained interest. As digital environments expand, early adopters could see significant appreciation in value, further drawing Gen Z into this unconventional opportunity.

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Plant-Based Food Innovations

Hands holding a chickpea patty on lettuce and a bowl of raw chickpeas.
Image Credit: iStock

Gen Z’s preference for sustainable lifestyles extends to plant-based foods. Investments in companies producing meat alternatives, plant-based dairy, and innovative food technologies are growing. These choices reflect a commitment to reducing environmental impacts while meeting dietary trends.

This generation values ethical consumption. Backing plant-based ventures aligns with their goals of promoting animal welfare and combating climate change. These investments cater to both personal values and market demand.

The rising popularity of plant-based products ensures growth potential. As new options enter mainstream markets, companies providing alternatives attract substantial consumer interest and investor confidence.

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Second-Hand Electronics

A cluttered desk with various gadgets including a laptop, tablet, smartphones, headphones, a camera, a smartwatch, and office supplies. A red button on the laptop screen reads "START ENGINE STOP.

Buying pre-owned electronics has become a popular trend among Gen Z. Smartphones, laptops, and gaming consoles often come at better prices. Many see it as a budget-friendly and sustainable option.

Resale platforms offering certified refurbished devices appeal to their tech-savvy mindset. They appreciate warranties and assurances that come with these purchases. Gen Z views this as a smart way to access advanced technology.

This trend reflects their practical and environmentally conscious approach to shopping. Investing in second-hand electronics reduces e-waste. It’s an effective way to save money and support sustainability.

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Electric Vehicle Infrastructure

Person charging an electric car with a yellow cable.
Image Credit: iStock

Gen Z supports the transition to clean transportation by investing in electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. Charging networks and battery technology startups are particularly appealing. This trend complements their focus on sustainable futures and tech-driven solutions.

Investing in EV infrastructure reflects practical foresight. As EV adoption grows, the demand for robust charging networks and innovative battery designs rises. Gen Z sees these as essential components of a greener world.

Such investments often pair innovation with profitability. Backing infrastructure enables the expansion of EV markets while addressing climate-related challenges, creating a dual benefit for society and investors.

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Mental Health Apps

Person holding a smartphone displaying a psychology app with a brain graphic and puzzle pieces.
Image Credit: iStock

Digital platforms addressing mental health needs resonate strongly with Gen Z. Apps offering therapy, meditation, and support communities attract both users and investors. These investments reflect their commitment to well-being and accessible care.

This generation prioritizes emotional health. Supporting mental health apps helps destigmatize therapy and promotes healthier lifestyles. Investors see potential in platforms providing affordable, user-friendly solutions.

The demand for these services ensures market growth. As mental health awareness increases globally, platforms meeting this need offer substantial opportunities for both societal impact and financial returns.

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Reusable Product Companies

A container holds a variety of metal and colorful silicone straws against a blue background.

Gen Z supports brands creating reusable alternatives to single-use products. Startups offering items like stainless steel straws, silicone storage bags, and refillable cosmetics attract investments. This aligns with their efforts to reduce waste and protect the planet.

Reusable products represent a shift in consumer behavior. Backing these companies empowers sustainable habits and introduces scalable solutions to environmental challenges. Investors appreciate the direct impact on reducing resource consumption.

The growing awareness around waste issues bolsters these companies’ prospects. As more consumers adopt eco-friendly habits, reusable product brands continue to gain popularity and expand their market reach.

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Community-Focused Coworking Spaces

A stay-at-home mom wearing a headset sits at a desk, speaking while looking at a laptop screen. Green plants are in the background as she balances her role with stay-at-home jobs.

Gen Z’s entrepreneurial spirit drives interest in coworking spaces designed for collaboration and community-building. These modern workspaces attract freelancers, small businesses, and remote workers. Investing in this trend reflects their desire to reshape traditional work environments.

These spaces offer flexibility and creativity. Supporting companies innovating coworking solutions helps redefine professional culture while meeting the needs of a changing workforce. Gen Z values spaces that combine productivity with community engagement.

The rise of remote work ensures continued demand for such investments. As work-life dynamics evolve, coworking spaces represent adaptable solutions that appeal to younger professionals.

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AI-Powered Content Creation Tools

A person wearing headphones works on video editing software with two monitors, in a room with a green and yellow gradient background.

Gen Z is investing in artificial intelligence tools that simplify content creation. These include platforms for video editing, graphic design, and social media management. Such investments reflect their tech-savvy nature and focus on efficiency.

AI tools empower creativity. Backing these companies supports accessible technologies that streamline processes and enhance productivity. Investors recognize the potential to revolutionize industries like marketing, entertainment, and education.

As the digital economy grows, AI-powered tools become essential. Companies offering advanced solutions continue to gain traction, making them attractive choices for forward-thinking investors.

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Green Energy Storage

Two workers in safety gear install solar panels on a rooftop under a clear sky.

Renewable energy’s growth has increased the demand for efficient storage solutions, and Gen Z sees potential here. Companies specializing in advanced batteries and energy grids are capturing their attention. These investments align with sustainability goals while addressing a critical energy need.

Energy storage technology is essential for clean energy expansion. Backing these innovations supports renewable energy adoption by improving reliability and accessibility. This practical approach matches Gen Z’s forward-looking mindset.

The global transition to green energy ensures market potential. As solar and wind energy systems expand, the need for scalable storage solutions drives demand and returns.

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Urban Agriculture Initiatives

Image Credit: iStock

Gen Z invests in urban agriculture projects like rooftop farms, vertical gardens, and hydroponic systems. These ventures address food security and sustainability while redefining cityscapes. This trend reflects their focus on local solutions to global challenges.

Urban farming represents an innovative response to resource limitations. Backing these initiatives supports fresh food production in urban areas while reducing transportation emissions. These projects often merge technology and sustainability in creative ways.

The growing need for local food sources ensures market viability. As cities expand, urban agriculture provides scalable solutions for feeding communities and reducing environmental impacts.

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How Gen Z is Changing the Norm

Smiling person holding two cryptocurrency coins, one in each hand, against a neutral background.

Gen Z’s investment trends are a fascinating mix of purpose and innovation. By championing sustainability, technology, and social impact, this generation is reshaping the financial landscape while staying true to their values. Their choices remind us that investing can be a tool not just for wealth creation but for meaningful change.

As these trends gain momentum, they offer valuable lessons for investors of all ages. If you’re inspired by their focus on the environment or intrigued by their embrace of the digital frontier, there’s much to learn from their approach. Gen Z’s influence underscores the importance of adapting to new opportunities and aligning investments with long-term goals.

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