While older generations control the largest share of global spending today, Gen Z is on track to become the fastest-growing force in global expenditures over the next decade.
This graphic shows the share of global population and spending each generation represents in 2024.
Why Gen Z could soon drive spending growth
In 2024, Gen X, Boomers, and the Silent Generation all account for larger shares of global spending compared with their shares of the population, with Gen X holding the largest share at 23.5%. Millennials follow close behind with 22.5% of spending power, while making up 22.9% of the population.
However, a report by NielsenIQ and World Data Lab projects Gen Z will see the fastest growth in spending power over the next 10 years. That’s primarily because Gen Z — which today accounts for almost a quarter of the world population — is “the largest generation to date and will likely be the largest ever.”