Gen Z women on TikTok are exposing themselves to financial risks
TikTok has emerged as a social media powerhouse, particularly among Gen Z women who are not only shaping cultural trends but also influencing spending patterns. But as this demographic spends more time on the platform, experts are highlighting the financial risks associated with the exposure to influencers and the allure of splurging on the products that are recommended by them.
TikTok's influence on Gen Z spending habits
Ellyn Briggs, a brands analyst at Morning Consult notes that TikTok is a Gen Z women-centric app that sets the tone for what's considered "hot" online. The platform's short-form videos have become a breeding ground for influencers who create aspirational content, often showcasing recent purchases in "haul" videos. Although the financial reality behind these influencers' spending habits may not always be apparent, it doesn't stop young women from spending on the lifestyle they see in those videos.
The impact of social media on real-life consumption
The digital realm's impact on real-life consumption is a reason for increasing concern. The blurred lines between the virtual and real worlds are exemplified by the #TikTokmademebuyit trend, amassing over eight billion views in February 2023, according to Morning Consult. Gen Z women, constituting 75% of TikTok users, are more immersed in the platform's consumer-driven ecosystem than their male counterparts (62%).
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Social media as the new "Keeping up with the Joneses"
Certified financial planner Shaun Williams draws parallels between social media and the concept of "keeping up with the Joneses" for the younger generation. Unlike previous generations who primarily observed shopping habits within their local communities, Gen Z now faces the challenge of keeping up with online influencers, battling the pervasive fear of missing out (FOMO).
Financial risks due to rising debt among Gen Z women
Oblivious to economic pressures, such as a high cost of living, Gen Z women find themselves succumbing to FOMO-driven spending. LendingTree reports a staggering 99.3% increase in nonmortgage debt among Gen Zs between March 2021 and the first quarter of 2023. The average debt per individual in this age group went up to $10,797, with spikes in personal loans and credit card balances.
Financial guardrails for Gen Z women
In response to these trends, financial experts emphasize two crucial considerations for women in their 20s.
Experts caution against equating outward displays of wealth with financial stability. While influencers may showcase luxurious purchases, it's essential to recognize that these are expenditures, not indicators of wealth. Furthermore, influencers often receive sponsorship deals, and the products they flaunt may not be bought with their own money.
The wage gap and other financial challenges can make it difficult for women to secure their financial future. Instead of succumbing to social media-induced spending, experts recommend focusing on long-term financial goals, such as investing in retirement accounts, building emergency savings, and preparing for future milestones. Establishing a solid financial foundation in one's 20s can pave the way for accelerated financial growth in the subsequent decades.
