4 Gen Z Investing Trends Redefining Their Wealth Strategy in 2026

Gen Z has their own way of doing things, including how they invest. In 2026, Gen Z are putting their money behind a myriad of investments that are different from the generations before them, yet still have some classic picks in their portfolios.

According to Brianna Rodgers, Director of Investor Education at the Madison Trust Company, many Gen Z investors prioritize achieving financial independence as early as possible, placing a high value on work-life balance and focusing on experiences, travel and personal fulfillment.

Gen Z Money Moves: Worried about market swings? See why investors are moving to gold and silver IRAs

Get Started Today: FREE 2026 Investor Guide + Up to $25,000 in Silver with Qualifying Purchases

“Gen Z investors often seek investments with high growth potential such as alternative assets as they are looking for ways to diversify their portfolios and build long-term wealth beyond Wall Street stocks and bonds,” explained Rodgers.

Here are the three investment trends of 2026 that Gen Z has their eyes on.

Real Estate

While millennials might have cornered the market on being the generation that cannot afford to buy a home, Gen Z has its sights on real estate as a way to grow their wealth.

“Real estate, in particular, is considered one of the most popular alternative assets because of its potential to generate passive income through rental payments while providing opportunities for long-term growth through appreciation,” Rodgers pointed out, adding that from residential and commercial properties to raw land, alternative assets provide exposure to a wide variety of market opportunities.

Exchange-Traded Funds

Otherwise known as ETFs, exchange-traded funds now come with a hyper focus on advancements in technology, such as robotics and artificial intelligence. Gen Z investors are investing heavily in them, according to a Nasdaq Retail ETF Investor survey which found that roughly 75% of those generational investors added ETFs in their retirement accounts.

These types of investments show an advancement in Gen Z thinking, moving on from cryptocurrencies and NFTs to the next round of digital investments.

Self-Directed IRAs

With a self-directed IRA, Rodgers finds that Gen Z investors can explore alternative assets using their retirement funds with potential returns growing tax-free or tax-deferred, depending on your account type.

“As investors generally become more focused on financial flexibility and retirement preparedness, the appeal of alternative assets that may generate recurring income, support portfolio diversification and provide additional flexibility over investment strategies continues to grow,” Rodgers explained.

Sports Betting

With the rise of polymarkets, Gen Z is starting to see betting, particularly on sports, as a new way of investing, even if it is inherently fraught with risk.

According to PR Newswire, about 26% of Gen Z investors in 2026 now view sports betting as a key component to long-term wealth cultivation and financial planning, with 52% redirecting their funds from retirement plans, stock options and other traditional investment options.

Editor’s note: Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Always consider your individual circumstances and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.

This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.

More From MoneyLion: