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Gen Zs in Singapore are exploring new income streams like online platforms and micro-influencing alongside traditional jobs, savings, and investments. Motivations include saving for milestones like weddings and BTO flats, pampering parents, and investing for long-term financial security and early retirement. Teenager Kylie Lee, an 18-year-old SP Diploma in Banking and Finance student, has explored various side hustles—from selling her designs on Redbubble during Covid-19 to becoming a fashion micro-influencer with over 26,000 followers. Her Redbubble venture earned only US$20–50 over a year, but she believes print-on-demand appeals to Gen Zs who value flexible, low-risk income streams. A Prudential survey in July 2025 found that 41% of Gen Zs in Singapore want multiple income streams. Many SP students interviewed shared similar views. Her SP classmate Isaac Low, also 18, said Gen Zs need a stable full-time job as a foundation, but will likely require additional income sources such as dividends or property investments to retire comfortably. He currently relies on parental allowance, dividends, and part-time holiday work. Another SP student, Kek Yu Min, 21, said she can only plan realistically up to her mid-30s or 40s because of unpredictable markets and life changes. While many assume long-term investing will secure retirement, she believes future market conditions are uncertain, and people cannot rely solely on long-term stock gains. Overall, these youngsters expect to work full-time but will actively seek side hustles and investments to secure their financial future.

[The Straits Times]