In an evolving economic landscape shaped by artificial intelligence, young individuals, particularly Generation Z, face unprecedented challenges. Renowned economist Gary Shilling's recent observations underscore the critical need for this generation to cultivate resilience and adaptability. He suggests that the path to financial success will be more arduous than for their predecessors, emphasizing diligent work, continuous learning, and strategic career development as essential components for navigating an AI-driven future.
Economist Gary Shilling's Urgent Message to Generation Z: Cultivating Resilience in the Age of AI
On October 26, 2025, prominent economist Gary Shilling shared his sobering perspective on the future economic prospects for Generation Z. Shilling, celebrated for his accurate forecasts of major financial events like the dot-com and housing bubbles, conveyed to Business Insider that young people must be prepared to exert significantly more effort to thrive in an era increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence. He warned that AI technologies could lead to widespread job displacement, potentially relegating some workers to lower-paying positions, metaphorically stating that some might be left "selling hamburgers on the corner."
Shilling, who established A. Gary Shilling & Co. after his tenure at Merrill Lynch, stressed that the world does not inherently guarantee anyone a livelihood. He urged younger generations to actively seek out educational opportunities and concentrate on developing skills that enhance productivity and value. He also criticized the prevalent notion that wealth can be easily attained, suggesting this belief has fueled speculative investments in volatile assets such as meme stocks and cryptocurrencies.
Echoing Shilling's sentiments, industry experts and major corporations underscore the growing importance of AI proficiency for young professionals. Adobe Inc., for example, highlights the value of applicants who combine creative abilities with AI skills, as articulated by Chief Communications Officer Stacy Martinet. While direct prior experience with AI might not always be a prerequisite, the capacity to integrate AI tools into daily workflows will become indispensable. Similarly, investor Kevin O'Leary posits that AI, by automating routine tasks, is actually fostering the creation of more sophisticated, higher-paying roles. Mark Cuban encourages Generation Z to proactively bridge any existing AI knowledge gaps, advising them to become adept at customizing AI models and utilizing platforms such as OpenAI's Sora and Google's Veo, especially given the current lack of AI expertise in many small businesses.
However, despite these emerging opportunities, concerns persist regarding rising unemployment rates among Americans under 25. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, along with economists from Goldman Sachs and UBS, points to broader economic slowdowns and cautious hiring practices—rather than AI alone—as primary contributors to the employment difficulties faced by recent graduates and minority groups.
This evolving economic landscape demands a proactive and adaptable approach from Generation Z. The insights from figures like Gary Shilling, while challenging, serve as a vital call to action for young individuals to invest in continuous learning, develop high-value skills, and embrace technological advancements to secure their financial futures.
This discourse profoundly illuminates the future trajectory of work and personal finance for Generation Z. It underscores the undeniable impact of AI on the global job market, signaling a paradigm shift where traditional career paths may no longer suffice. The primary takeaway is the indispensable need for continuous skill development and adaptability. For young individuals, cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset and seeking areas where human creativity intersects with AI capabilities will be crucial. This shift isn't merely about using AI tools but understanding their underlying mechanisms and leveraging them to create new value. Ultimately, the message is clear: the future belongs to those who are willing to learn, adapt, and innovate relentlessly.