Gen Z and Silvers Have More in Common Than You Think — Especially When It Comes to Money. Young and Older Poles Prefer to Spend on Life Experiences Rather Than Save Passively, New Credit Agricole Study Finds.
Generational extremes — the youngest and the oldest Poles — share a surprisingly similar outlook on money. Both Generation Z (ages 19–26) and the Silver generation (60+) want to get the most out of life and invest in experiences, according to the latest Credit Agricole survey.
The Joy of Spending on Experiences
Credit Agricole has studied Poles’ attitudes toward saving and household budgeting for years. The 2025 edition of the report also explored how people use their savings to fund experiences. The findings show that 36% of Gen Z and 38% of Silvers use their savings to finance life experiences — six percentage points higher than the national average across all respondents.
“The youngest and oldest generations more often say that saving money allows them to fulfill dreams, pursue passions, and enjoy life. Both groups probably have more time for it than those aged 27–59. They can also afford to spend more — the youngest often receive family support, while the oldest have already saved specifically for this purpose,”
says Katarzyna Kierzkowska, author of the study and representative of Credit Agricole Bank Polska.
For Gen Z, savings represent opportunities for personal growth (19%) and funding various outings. The Silver generation, on the other hand, appreciates the freedom to make spontaneous purchases (21%) and socialize with friends (15%).
Across all age groups, the number-one benefit of saving is peace of mind in case of unexpected expenses — cited by 71% of Silvers (compared with 58% of all Poles).
Interestingly, for Generation Y (ages 30–45), savings are primarily a financial safety net against job loss (57%). This group’s motivations are strongly shaped by anxiety — about losing employment (53%), unexpected costs, or ensuring financial security for loved ones (33%). Still, 28% of Gen Y respondents said they would use their savings for experiences — the same as Generation X (ages 46–59).
“Attitudes toward saving often mirror our stage in life. The middle generations are usually building careers, raising families, and juggling more obligations — so it’s natural that they view savings as a safety cushion.
But the mindset of younger people signals a potential financial revolution,”
adds Kierzkowska.
Hiding Money from Themselves — and Feeling Guilty About Spending It
The study also revealed that Poles use creative ways to avoid unnecessary spending.
- 60% of Gen Z and 52% of Millennials (Gen Y) admit to hiding money from themselves, often by setting up separate accounts that are harder to access.
- Older generations appear more disciplined, managing to resist dipping into their savings even when they are easily available.
Surprisingly, Poles tend to feel guilty when they “borrow” from their own savings — and 54% of those who withdraw funds try to replenish them as soon as possible.
Discounts, Repairs, and Self-Control Still Dominate Saving Habits
Discounts and promotions remain Poland’s favorite savings method — used by 68% of respondents.
In second place comes repairing instead of replacing (50%), followed by the self-imposed trick of hiding money from oneself (49%).
“I believe Gen Z will find new, creative ways to save. They are also the generation most eager to learn — 44% of them want to know more about budgeting and managing savings. Their spending may appear hedonistic, but what’s wrong with planning your pleasures wisely? Even so-called nonessential expenses can be meaningful if they bring fulfillment,”
reflects Kierzkowska.
Smart Spending: Investing in Quality and Self-Development
Gen Z is not afraid to spend on quality gadgets and technology — 30% admit they don’t mind paying more for good equipment. At the same time, half (50%) believe money is best spent on personal development, a sentiment shared by 34% of Silvers.
“At any age, investing in yourself pays off. It’s encouraging to see younger generations recognize that, likely because they see more opportunities in the job market and beyond. But older generations, too, could benefit from putting their savings toward self-growth rather than letting them sit idle,”
concludes Kierzkowska.
Source: CEO.com.pl – “Young and Older Poles United by One Thing: Preferring to Spend on Life, Not Just Save”
