Core Insights - Baby boomers may be the last generation to enjoy a smooth and financially secure retirement, while Generation X faces significant challenges in achieving similar retirement security [1] Financial Challenges for Generation X - Rising costs of living, healthcare, and housing are outpacing wage growth, leading to diminished savings and increased reliance on credit for Generation X [2] - Many Gen Xers are entering their 50s and early 60s with debt and anxiety about their financial future, with a lack of confidence in their ability to retire as planned [4] - Economic disruptions such as the dot-com crash, the 2008 housing crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic have negatively impacted Gen X's wealth-building years, contributing to financial strain [5] Sandwich Generation Dynamics - Generation X is often referred to as the "sandwich generation," as they are financially supporting both their children and aging parents while managing their own debts, complicating their ability to prioritize retirement savings [6]