Finance
Gen-Z outpaces millennials in setting 5-Year financial plans amid economic challenges
Gen-Z adults are more likely than Millennials to have a five-year financial plan, according to a new survey by First Direct. The survey, conducted by OnePoll in October among 4,000 participants, found that 59% of Gen-Z savers—those born after 1996—have set financial goals for the next five years, compared to just 40% of Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996).
Despite a challenging economic environment, including rising living costs and wage stagnation, both generations remain committed to achieving their financial aspirations. Around 73% of Gen-Z respondents and 76% of Millennials said they are determined to reach their financial goals, though many have had to delay milestones like home ownership or career progression.
Also read: Andhra achieves 10.44% growth in GSDP in 2023-24, shows economic survey report
For Millennials, the most common financial goals include achieving a better work-life balance (34%), saving for retirement (29%), and increasing income (29%). However, half (50%) of Millennials reported that the cost-of-living crisis has delayed their financial plans, with economic uncertainty and stagnant wages cited as major factors.
Carl Watchorn, head of banking at First Direct, commented, “Younger people have very high aspirations when it comes to achieving their financial goals. Despite facing challenges like higher living costs and the aftermath of the pandemic, they remain incredibly resilient and committed to improving their standard of living.”
Also read: Micro-mance to future-proofing: Dating trends 2025 for Genz and millennials
Tips for Financial Resilience
-First Direct also shared several tips for boosting financial resilience, including:
-Speak to your bank about available tools and support.
-Set specific goals, such as saving for a trip, and adjust spending to meet those targets within a set timeframe.
-Use budgeting apps to track spending and compare it with your goals.
Also read: Rural women entrepreneurs: Overcoming economic & social adversities
-Build a financial buffer by setting aside a regular amount each month, with some financial products offering good returns for consistent savings.
As both Gen-Z and Millennials navigate economic pressures, their focus on long-term financial planning highlights a generation committed to securing a stable future.
Finance
New questions about Trump’s taxes after financial disclosure release
Finance
Regions Financial acquires Montgomery-based investment banking firm Frazer Lanier
Regions Financial Corp. has completed its acquisition of Montgomery-based investment banking firm The Frazer Lanier Company, expanding its municipal finance and corporate investment banking services.
The Birmingham-based financial company announced Thursday that the acquisition has officially closed. Founded in 1976, Frazer Lanier provides investment banking services specializing in municipal and corporate securities and has served corporations, cities, counties and local boards throughout its history.
According to Regions, the acquisition is intended to strengthen the bank’s capital markets capabilities while enhancing services for public sector and institutional clients across its multi-state footprint.
Frazer Lanier has built its business by serving as an underwriter or placement agent for tax-exempt and taxable bonds, helping public entities and organizations access financing.
“Two of our top priorities at Regions Bank are strategically expanding our services and investing in top-tier banking talent,” John Turner, chairman, president and CEO of Regions Financial Corp., said in a news release. “By welcoming experienced bankers from Frazer Lanier to the Regions family, we are connecting Regions’ clients with even greater capabilities while advancing our long-term strategy for growth.”
As part of the acquisition, Frazer Lanier will be integrated into Regions Bank’s Capital Markets division within the company’s Corporate Banking group.
Brian Willman, head of Corporate Banking for Regions, said the two organizations share a similar approach to serving clients.
“Frazer Lanier has built trust by staying close to clients and helping them navigate important decisions,” Willman said. “Together, we can expand that model by bringing more ideas, more capabilities and more connectivity to clients across our markets.”
Regions said the acquisition will expand its municipal finance and investment banking capabilities, strengthen its services for cities, counties and other public entities, and provide clients with broader access to financing and capital markets solutions.
Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.
Finance
Former Semmes finance director indicted on ethics, theft charges
MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) – A Mobile County grand jury has indicted the former finance director for the city of Semmes on ethics and theft charges.
Heather Renee Davis, who also previously served as city clerk for the city of Satsuma, faces a 12-count indictment. Ten of the counts are ethics violations.
Allegations
Prosecutors allege Davis improperly used her public positions in Semmes and Satsuma for personal gain, including misappropriating public money and resources.
Two counts accuse her of first-degree theft by deception involving amounts over $2,500. One count is tied to the city of Semmes and one to the city of Satsuma.
Arrest and bond
Jail records show Davis was arrested and later released after posting a $60,000 bond.
Copyright 2026 WALA. All rights reserved.
-
Pennsylvania3 minutes agoFire tears through recycling center in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, officials say
-
Rhode Island6 minutes agoState agencies advise avoiding contact with three Rhode Island waterbodies over algae blooms – What’s Up Newp
-
South-Carolina6 minutes agoDawn Staley shows off new South Carolina colorway on A’ja Wilson Nike shoes
-
South Dakota18 minutes agoPres. Trump travels to South Dakota
-
Tennessee21 minutes ago
Johnson County marks America’s 250th with Tennessee’s first Charters of Freedom display
-
Texas26 minutes agoWhat to expect on Texas roads this Fourth of July
-
Utah33 minutes agoUtah schools still need hundreds of teachers ahead of new school year
-
Vermont36 minutes agoArizona kidnapping suspect indicted while facing separate child sex charges in Vermont