A study by Northwestern Mutual has found that 80% of Gen Z and 75% of Millennials feel financially behind and are turning to high-risk instruments like cryptocurrency, sports betting, and prediction markets as a primary strategy for wealth creation. The study also found that half of all adults now describe themselves as "financially secure," a significant increase from 44% a year ago. Despite this, financial discipline is also on the rise, with 53% of people now considering themselves as disciplined planners. However, the study also highlighted a trend of younger generations gravitating towards risky, speculative bets in an attempt to catch up. The motivation behind these investments is not just an appetite for risk, but a direct response to their economic reality.