The 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction celebrated Gen X artists like Outkast, Soundgarden, and Salt-N-Pepa, marking a shift from the traditional focus on '60s and '70s musicians to honoring acts from the 1980s and 1990s, reflecting the evolving landscape of rock and popular music.
A study published in 'Intelligence' indicates that Generation X is reaching or has reached peak mental performance, with various cognitive traits peaking between ages 55 and 75, and overall mental functioning peaking between 55 and 60 before declining after 65, with some abilities improving into the 70s and 80s.
Gen X, often overlooked in cultural and media narratives, is characterized by a 'meh' attitude, having grown up as latchkey kids during a time of transition and economic upheaval. Despite their low profile, they are a significant, independent, and resourceful generation that has contributed notably to culture and business, yet they feel neglected and underrepresented, especially in leadership roles. Their unique position as mediators between boomers and millennials, along with their resilience and adaptability, marks their importance in societal dynamics.
The article highlights how Generation X is often overlooked in discussions about intergenerational wealth transfer and housing issues, despite facing significant financial and caregiving pressures as they manage their own homes, support aging parents, and assist their children, all while being caught between the larger, more discussed baby boomer and millennial generations.
A study finds that appendix cancer diagnoses have tripled among Gen X and quadrupled among millennials in the US from 1975 to 2019, raising concerns about environmental and lifestyle risk factors, despite the disease remaining rare. The article highlights individual stories, including Chris Williams' experience with early detection and treatment, and discusses the importance of awareness and prevention strategies for gastrointestinal cancers in younger populations.
A recent study reveals that appendix cancer is increasing among Millennials and Generation X, with rates two to four times higher than in older generations, possibly due to shared environmental and lifestyle risk factors, although the disease remains very rare. The research highlights the importance of awareness and early detection, as symptoms often last for months before diagnosis, and ongoing efforts aim to better understand and combat this trend.
A study in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry links mental health issues in Generation X to childhood exposure to lead from leaded gasoline. Researchers estimate that over half of the U.S. population was exposed to neurotoxic levels of lead, contributing to 151 million cases of psychiatric disorders over 75 years. The study highlights the significant impact of lead on brain development and mental health, though it does not establish causation and focuses solely on gasoline-related exposure.
Gen X, aged 44-59, is facing significant financial challenges despite having the highest income among generations. A Philadelphia Fed survey reveals that many are struggling with high debt, cutting back on discretionary and essential spending, and taking on additional work to cope with the cost of living. Unlike millennials who have benefited from recent wealth booms, or baby boomers with pensions, Gen X is caught in a 'sandwich' phase, supporting both children and elderly parents, which exacerbates their financial strain.
Baby boomers are set to transfer approximately $83.5 trillion to Gen X and millennials over the next 20 to 35 years, with the largest transfers occurring in the Americas. This wealth transfer, which includes $9 trillion moving between spouses, is expected to be one of the largest in history. Women, who generally outlive men, will play a significant role in this process. The average age of recipients is estimated to be around 59.
Fidelity's analysis of 23.3 million 401(k) participants shows Gen Z's retirement savings grew 15% last quarter, outpacing millennials' 11% growth. Gen X's average balance surpassed boomers' for the first time among long-term savers, indicating their readiness for retirement. Despite market volatility, the number of 401(k) millionaires increased by 15% from the previous quarter.
A Northwestern Mutual survey found that Americans believe they need $1.46 million to retire comfortably, with Gen Xers estimating they'll need $1.56 million. However, the average savings for Gen Xers is only $108,600, leading to concerns about outliving their savings. The survey also revealed that many Americans, across different generations, are behind in their retirement savings, with high expectations for retirement funds not aligning with current savings. This comes amid economic challenges and financial insecurities, particularly for Gen Xers, as retirement becomes increasingly out of reach for many Americans.
Gen X workers are facing ageism in the job market, with many experiencing challenges in securing roles due to perceptions of being less adaptable to technological advancements. The confluence of mass layoffs, economic uncertainty, and rapid technological change has exacerbated the issue, leaving mid-career workers in a vulnerable position. Age discrimination, particularly against those aged 40 to 65, is prevalent, impacting career opportunities and advancement. Employers' biases are blinding them to the valuable skills and experience that older workers bring to the table, and there is a need for more age-inclusive practices in the workplace.
A political reporter shares his experience diving into the world of Taylor Swift and her boyfriend, Travis Kelce, with the help of his stepdaughter, who introduced him to Swift's music. Despite being a Gen Xer with different musical tastes, he found himself drawn to Swift's "Folklore" and "Evermore" albums, leading to a newfound appreciation for the millennial icon.
Temu, a Chinese-owned e-commerce app, has seen a surge in popularity, particularly among older generations, with boomers and Gen Xers shopping more frequently and spending more than younger people. The app's diverse product mix and discounts appeal to more mature shoppers, while some speculate that older individuals may be less sophisticated internet shoppers and are drawn to Temu's gamified discounting. The reasons behind boomers' high engagement with Temu could also be attributed to having more space and disposable income, but the exact motivations remain unclear.
A recent survey from AARP found that 62% of adults age 50 and older have not consulted a professional to help plan for retirement, with reasons including a preference to handle financial planning themselves, lack of retirement savings, and inability to afford a financial professional. Many Gen Xers are struggling to save for retirement, with the typical household having just $40,000 in retirement savings. Encouraging financial literacy and seeking professional advice, such as from certified financial planners, may help improve retirement planning for individuals in this age group.