Graphic Truth: Why is Gen-Z so optimistic?

High prices are hitting everyone’s pocketbooks in the US and Canada, but Gen Z seems to be feeling it less than the rest of us this summer, according to recent polling data from Maru Public Opinion.

“This enthusiasm among the youngest, more confident young adults,” says Maru Executive VP John Wright, “has disproportionately fueled optimism and pushed up national averages in some key elements of our monthly index, where most others are feeling more negative or worse off about their own financial situation or the economic prospects for the nation.”

Whether it’s naivety, because they are enjoying the summer at home with their parents, or benefitting from an overheated job market, a much higher percentage of Gen Z has seen their financial conditions improve in the last month. They are also far more likely to think the economy is moving in the right direction, which is good news for President Joe Biden, who needs to get younger voters to the polls in 2024.

We take a look at the numbers.

More from GZERO Media

President Donald Trump talks with Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during a North Atlantic Treaty Organization Plenary Session at the NATO summit back in 2019.
REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque

Incoming US President Donald Trumpposted on Tuesday that he will create an “External Revenue Service” to oversee his planned trade tariffs, underlining his commitment to these policies – much to the chagrin of America’s neighbors.

Palestinians inspect the site of an Israeli strike on a beachfront cafe amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Deir Al-Balah, Gaza Strip, on January 14, 2025.
(Photo by Majdi Fathi/NurPhoto) via Reuters

After months of negotiations mediated by the US, Egypt, and Qatar, Hamas on Tuesday accepted a draft ceasefire agreement that could bring an end to the fighting in Gaza – at least temporarily – if Israel’s cabinet approves it.

President-elect Donald Trump speaks during a meeting with House Republicans at the Hyatt Regency hotel in Washington, DC, on Nov. 13, 2024.

ALLISON ROBBERT/Pool via REUTERS

In just under a week, Donald Trump will be inaugurated as the 47th president of the United States. These final days of Biden’s administration mark the very end of the calm before the storm.

- YouTube

A Gaza ceasefire has gained momentum. What is the likelihood a deal will be reached soon? What do I make of a potential sale of TikTok to Elon Musk? What does Lebanon's new president mean for Hezbollah? Ian Bremmer shares his insights on global politics this week on World In :60.

When his daughter was born, Johnny was able to use Walmart’s paid parental leave to spend six weeks bonding with her: “I’m a living example of the benefits Walmart provides.” Walmart’s comprehensive benefits — including paid parental leave, healthcare, tuition coverage, and more — help associates live better at work and at home. With a $1 billion investment in career-driven training and development, Walmart is creating pathways to higher-paying, higher-skilled jobs, so associates like Johnny can build better lives for themselves and their families. Learn why it pays to work at Walmart.

As we look ahead to the next four years, there are many reasons to be optimistic about the role of American AI. The path forward demands collaboration across all sectors, and Microsoft is ready to help chart this course. At Microsoft, we envision a three-pronged approach. First, the US must advance AI technology and infrastructure to maintain its global leadership. Second, it’s critical to expand skilling initiatives to equip the workforce for an AI-powered future. Finally, exporting American AI innovation to allied nations will not only strengthen international partnerships but also bolster domestic economic growth. Realizing this vision requires a unified effort from government, industry, and educational institutions, and Microsoft is committed to playing a key role in this journey. You can learn more here.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte speaks during a joint press conference at the summit of the Baltic Sea NATO countries at the Presidential Palace in Helsinki, Finland, on Jan. 14, 2025.
STT-Lehtikuva/Sipa USA via Reuters Connect

The alliance has announced that it is dispatching naval drones, submarines, ships, and aircraft to patrol the Baltic Sea in a mission called “Baltic Sentry.” The aim? To prevent Russia from committing acts of sabotage.

President Joe Biden delivers a speech at the State Department on Jan. 13, 2025.
REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein

The president issued an executive order on Tuesday to allow the US Departments of Defense and Energy to lease federal land for data centers.