Money Moves: Trust, Youth, and Gold

January 2026

What’s Going On With Banks, Younger Investors, and Gold?

Banks are learning that how customers feel matters just as much as rates and technology. A recent global study shows that banks customers actually recommend grow much faster than those that don’t. Loyal customers tend to keep more accounts in one place and trust their bank with a larger share of their money.

Even though banks have spent trillions improving apps and online tools, many customers still feel like “just a number.” People say they want personalized service, but very few actually use the tools banks provide. The banks doing best are the ones that are clear, remember their customers, make things easy, and reward loyalty.

Younger adults are feeling especially optimistic. About two-thirds of Gen Z believe their finances will improve soon—and they’re acting on that confidence. Many are planning to start businesses and invest more, including in stocks and even gold. While most people still use traditional banks, younger generations are mixing digital and brick-and-mortar banking depending on what they need.

Meanwhile, uncertainty pushed many investors toward safety. Gold jumped 66% in 2025, its best year in decades, as people looked for stability amid economic and global concerns. Silver also saw big swings, reminding us that markets don’t move in straight lines.