Wed Jul 02 02:40:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Kevin O’Leary criticizes Gen Z’s spending habits, specifically their indulgence in expensive lunches and daily luxuries. He argues that these small expenses, if invested instead, could amount to significant wealth over time. He advises younger generations to track their spending, curb emotional purchases, and prioritize long-term financial security through saving and investing. He also emphasizes the importance of confidence, communication, and financial literacy, especially for aspiring entrepreneurs. While acknowledging the financial challenges faced by young Americans, O’Leary maintains that disciplined saving is crucial for building wealth, especially considering the uncertainty of Social Security.

**News Article:**

**O’Leary Blasts Gen Z Spending Habits, Warns Against “Stupid” Lunch Bills**

*Fortune -* “Shark Tank” investor Kevin O’Leary is taking aim at Gen Z’s financial choices, particularly their spending on everyday luxuries. In a recent interview, O’Leary criticized young people who spend significant amounts on things like expensive lunches, arguing that those funds could be better used for long-term investments.

“I can’t stand when I see kids making $70,000 a year spending $28 for lunch,” O’Leary said. “I mean, that’s just stupid. Think about that in the context of that being put into an index fund and making 8% to 10% a year for the next 50 years.”

O’Leary demonstrated how investing just $28 a week in a low-cost index fund could potentially grow to nearly $800,000 over 50 years. He urges young people to track their income and expenses, avoid emotional spending, and prioritize saving from an early age, regardless of income level. He also added that one should never outspend themself in a 30-60 day cycle and eliminate all debt.

The investor also emphasized the importance of confidence, communication, and financial literacy for young entrepreneurs, urging them to be able to articulate their ideas clearly and “know your numbers.”

While acknowledging the economic challenges facing young Americans, O’Leary stressed that disciplined saving is paramount.

*Disclaimer: For this story, Fortune used generative AI to help with an initial draft. An editor verified the accuracy of the information before publishing.*

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