AMS:INPST 7 January 2026

April 25, 2026, 10:08 PM EDT. Younger Americans, especially Gen Z and millennials, are increasingly drawn to high-risk alternative investments like crypto, meme stocks, sports betting, and prediction markets, according to Northwestern Mutual's 2026 Planning & Progress Study. Around 80% of Gen Z investors who choose risky assets feel financially behind, driving them towards speculative options believed to offer better growth prospects than traditional stocks and bonds. However, experts warn that many of these investments resemble gambling, with potentially negative expected returns and risks extending beyond financial losses. Notably, concerns have surfaced over speculative bets on sensitive political events, raising ethical questions. While crypto remains the most popular alternative, a substantial minority also engage in prediction markets and options trading, contrasting sharply with low participation from baby boomers.