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New York Post
20 hours ago
- Business
- New York Post
Gen Z and millennials prioritize financial openness in dating
A new era of dating? America's younger singles are banking on love in more ways than one, as traditional financial expectations may be losing ground. A new survey of 2,000 singles or casual daters, split evenly by generation and region, revealed that 42% of baby boomers and 45% of Gen X still abide by tradition and believe the man should pay for a date. Though 36% of Gen Z share the same sentiment, they're more likely than any other generation to say that whoever plans or schedules the date should pay (28% vs just 16% of baby boomers) or even that it should be split evenly between both parties (23% vs just 17% of Gen X). 5 America's younger singles are banking on love in more ways than one, as traditional financial expectations may be losing ground. Mdv Edwards – The younger generations also appreciate financial transparency more than the older ones. Half of both Gen Z and millennials find it attractive when a casual date is open about how much money they make, compared to just 37% of Gen X and 23% of baby boomers. Gen Z is even more than twice as likely as baby boomers to find someone who is a 'big spender' attractive (34% vs 16%). Almost two in five Gen Z (37%) feel pressure to spend a lot of money on dates, and one in five (19%) have even gone so far as to ghost someone because of their poor financial habits. 5 A new survey of 2,000 singles or casual daters, split evenly by generation and region, revealed that 42% of baby boomers and 45% of Gen X still abide by tradition and believe the man should pay for a date. DragonImages – Still, finances ranked in the top three most stressful conversations to have with a date. While relationship history (29%) and sex (26%) ranked as the top two, finances (25%) didn't fall far behind, even outranking religious beliefs (17%), marriage (12%), and kids (11%). For baby boomers, finances are just as difficult a conversation as politics and current events (both 26%). Conducted by Talker Research on behalf of banking app Chime, results revealed that the exact timing of these conversations is a hot debate as well. About one-third (31%) believe two people who are dating should start talking about personal finances somewhere between the first and third date. Another 34% firmly believe that financial conversations should be saved for when you're in a committed relationship. With many putting off heavy-hitting financial conversations, crypto and car bros may be in luck, as 23% of Gen Z would rather discuss topics that they have no knowledge or interest in over finances, and 26% would rather chat about their deepest darkest fears. Sixteen percent of baby boomers would rather disclose who they voted for in the last election, and 19% of millennials would reflect on their exes and past dates. Still, rising costs and inflation have impacted the dating lives of 74% of all Americans polled, and 31% have actually canceled a date due to financial reasons. QUOTE: 'According to the results, Americans are divided over the 'right' way to talk about who pays for a first date, and whether it should be on the actual date (37%) or a message before it even begins (31%),' said Janelle Sallenave, Chief Spending Officer at Chime. 'With so many Americans feeling anxiety over the payment situation, discussing expectations beforehand can alleviate awkward moments.' The survey, which also polled 1,000 men and 1,000 women, found that a little more than one in five men (21%) have gone into debt by dating, compared to just 16% of women. 5 Though 36% of Gen Z share the same sentiment, they're more likely than any other generation to say that whoever plans or schedules the date should pay or even that it should be split evenly between both parties. LIGHTFIELD STUDIOS – Similarly, men feel more pressure to appear more financially stable than they actually are (39% vs 30%). Nearly half of men (47%) even believe that the man should pay for all of a date, and only about a third of women agree (34%). However, men and women only have slightly different ideas of what's an 'acceptable' amount of money to spend on someone they've been dating for six months. 5 Half of both Gen Z and millennials find it attractive when a casual date is open about how much money they make, compared to just 37% of Gen X and 23% of baby boomers. Syda Productions – Women tend to keep it under $100, or an average of $98, while men are more likely to shovel out an average of $109, bringing the average cost of a date to a little over $100. Though both men and women find spending more than you make to be a 'financial ick' (31% and 35%), women are more likely to be turned off by someone who is stingy with their money (33% vs 19%). Moreover, women are also more than twice as likely to be turned off when their partner doesn't offer to pay for dates (29% vs 12%) or if their partner doesn't have a good understanding of finances (24% vs 17%). 5 Gen Z is even more than twice as likely as baby boomers to find someone who is a 'big spender' attractive. Kalim – 'These findings make it clear that financial norms around dating are shifting — especially among younger generations who are choosing transparency and equality over tradition,' said Sallenave. 'Today's couples are literally banking on love — swapping awkward assumptions for upfront money talks that lead to less stress, fewer surprises, and stronger relationships.' Survey methodology: Talker Research surveyed 2,000 Americans who are single or casually dating, split evenly by generation and region, with 1,000 men and 1,000 women; the survey was commissioned by Chime and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between June 2 and June 9, 2025.
New York Post
08-08-2025
- General
- New York Post
Woman berates her boyfriend of five years over his reaction to her home-cooked meals
A woman received an outpouring of support after revealing that her boyfriend of five years rarely compliments her home-cooked meals – yet gushes over takeout and leftovers from work. It caused a huge blowout between them, she said on Reddit, and sparked a debate online, too. 'Yesterday, I made a meal from scratch and, as usual, he ate it silently and only said it was good after I asked,' the woman wrote on the platform recently. 'Then, today, we had a meal he brought from work and immediately reacted with an enthusiastic, 'Mmm.'' 'That hit a nerve,' she admitted. 'I blew up.' In the midst of the argument, the boyfriend claimed he tries to compliment her cooking but often forgets. That only made her more upset, the woman shared. 'Why does he have to try so hard?' she wrote. 'I don't want forced compliments. I just want him to be honest.' 3 It caused a huge blowout between them, she said on Reddit, and sparked a debate online, too. DragonImages – The 25-year-old woman, who also shared that she is Slavic, described herself as an accomplished home cook. 'Everything you can name, I can cook,' she said in the comments section, adding that she prepares dishes from their shared cultural background, as well as Chinese, Thai and more. Her boyfriend, she noted, grew up in a household in which home-cooked meals were the norm and takeout was a treat. 'Now I'm wondering if I overreacted,' she wrote. 3 Melanie Williams, a Baltimore-based psychotherapist, said it boils down to one of the most common relationship problems she sees. ViDi Studio – Most users sided with her. 'Cooking is a labor of love,' one commenter wrote. 'Your guy doesn't understand that, but he needs to learn.' Said another person, 'My [significant other] thanks me and compliments me even if it doesn't turn out that great. He's not just complimenting the food, he's grateful for my time and effort.' Keep up with today's most important news Stay up on the very latest with Evening Update. Thanks for signing up! Enter your email address Please provide a valid email address. By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Never miss a story. Check out more newsletters Melanie Williams, a Baltimore-based psychotherapist, said it boils down to one of the most common relationship problems she sees. 'It's entitlement,' she told Fox News Digital. 'She was right to speak up because if she didn't address it now, his entitlement would likely have continued and worsened.' But not everyone agreed. One person said the girlfriend was being too 'touchy.' Another said, 'Cook for him either because you enjoy it or because you've mutually determined it's your fair share of the household labor. Not something to start a fight over.' Other people said compliments can't be forced. 3 But certified life and parenting coach Randi Crawford of California said it's all about being seen. Prathankarnpap – 'She's pouring energy into this relationship, and he's acting like dinner magically appears from the kitchen staff.' 'Otherwise it's performative and what's the point of that?' one person wrote. But certified life and parenting coach Randi Crawford of California said it's all about being seen. 'She's pouring energy into this relationship, and he's acting like dinner magically appears from the kitchen staff,' Crawford said. The woman should sit her boyfriend down and tell him she is hurt, Crawford said. 'Say, 'I don't need a production every night, but I do need you to notice me, not just the DoorDash guy,'' she advised. 'And if he can't do that? Stop bending over backwards and let him know: 'Appreciation isn't optional in this relationship – it's the bare minimum,'' Crawford added. 'And if he still doesn't get it? Let's see how quiet he gets when your kitchen is closed for business.'
New York Post
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Post
Single women ditch wearing makeup on first dates — and experts encourage it
These ladies are going au natural at their amorous appointments — and loving it. In general, Gen Z has trended towards skipping out on classic date nights like traditional dinners and drinks in favor of more adventurous, active ventures like ocean swims, yoga sessions, or rock climbing. These activities allow potential paramours to get to know each other without the pressure of sitting across from each other and talking for hours on end — though eventually, there comes a point in a relationship where this is necessary. Advertisement The latest move to ease the tension and anxiety of a first date? No makeup, a la Pamela Anderson. 3 The growing trend is also beneficial for those who simply don't enjoy wearing makeup, or don't know how to apply it properly. fizkes – Both Millennials and Gen Zers have taken to the Internet to share their experiences with the movement, and overall, they're psyched about their new looks, and the confidence boosts it can — potentially, as @madisonoud pointed out — bring with it. Advertisement @madisonoud i'm either going to be really proud of myself or hysterically crying in 2 hours ♬ MUTT – Leon Thomas Aside from saving plenty of time getting ready, skipping out on glam can also be helpful for those struggling with perfection compulsions and people-pleasing. Experts say that arriving at a first date fresh-faced can help screen potential suitors who simply aren't a match. 3 If your date doesn't like you as you are, ditch him, many women say. DragonImages – Advertisement 'If someone you date loses interest simply because you weren't wearing makeup, that's useful information,' said Janine O'Brien, a licensed clinical psychologist and relationship therapist, in an interview with Bustle. Women online agree — why waste your time getting ready for someone you barely know, especially when there's a fair chance they didn't do the same? 'Don't see the issue. Men don't do their makeup,' said one comment under @madisonoud's video. 'To your date, [going makeup-free] may communicate confidence, self-acceptance, and authenticity. And that can set the tone for a relationship where you're not afraid to show up as your full self,' O'Brien said. Advertisement Some women are also adopting strategies like wearing more makeup as they go on more dates with the same person — both to show their interest in the other person and to demonstrate that effort goes both ways. 3 Today's generation of women are saying buh-bye to mascara and lip gloss for first dates. Drobot Dean – Gen Z daters are not only ditching makeup — they're apparently also leaving dating apps in the past and turning towards old-fashioned matchmaking services. 'Matchmaking in this country has never been more popular,' Adam Cohen-Aslatei, director of Tawkify matchmaking service, told The Post. 'It's really grown pretty tremendously.' 'Business has never been stronger for Cohen-Aslatei and the company saw its busiest month last year.
Newsweek
26-06-2025
- Health
- Newsweek
Health care Coverage Expanding in California: What to Know
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. California is set to expand access to infertility care and in vitro fertilization (IVF) through a new health coverage law that will be implemented on July 1. The law, Senate Bill 729, requires employers with 100 or more employees and state insurance plans to cover infertility and IVF treatment for all Californians—regardless of their gender expression or identity, sexual orientation or marriage status. Newsweek has contacted Senator Caroline Menjivar, the author of the bill, outside of regular working hours via email for comment. Why It Matters As the bill explicitly includes coverage for all, regardless of gender or sexual orientation, it takes a clear stand on inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals in fertility care, meaning that for the first time in the state, these groups are given equal access to the services. According to Senator Menjivar, the bill will "ensure that queer couples no longer have to pay more out of pocket to start families than non-queer families." In the bills comments section, she also wrote the bill is "critical to achieving full-lived equality for LGBTQ+ people, as well as advancing well-rounded and comprehensive health care for all Californians." Other states have also brought similar fertility legislation into effect, but fewer have explicitly sought to include LGBTQ+ groups in the legislation. File photo: gynecologist showing a UV image of baby on a computer screen to a pregnant woman. File photo: gynecologist showing a UV image of baby on a computer screen to a pregnant woman. DragonImages/Getty Images What To Know Previous law had offered some coverage for infertility treatment but had excluded IVF treatment. The new bill will require large and small group health care service plan contracts and disability insurance policies to provide cover for diagnosis and treatment of infertility and fertility services. This includes a maximum of 3 oocyte retrievals—the process where eggs are removed from the ovaries as part of IVF treatment. It also mandates coverage for unlimited embryo transfers in accordance with the guidelines of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). SB 729 is also changing the definition of infertility, so testing and diagnosis of infertility can still be covered for those who have not met the criteria of: not conceiving a child after 12 months for those under 35 and not conceiving a child after six months for those over 35—where miscarriage does not restart the time period to qualify as having infertility. This would mean that earlier intervention can take place for treating and diagnosing infertility. While the law does not however explicitly mention coverage for egg freezing as part of fertility preservation, it is not clear whether some parts of egg freezing may be covered given that oocyte retrievals are covered. Violation of any these provisions by a health care service plan would also be determined a crime in the law, something which the previous law had also stated. What People Are Saying Michele Goodwin, a professor of constitutional law and global health policy at Georgetown Law, Washington D.C, told Newsweek: "SB 729 is important for reproductive health care and family planning for all Californians. Many families experience some form of infertility or other reproductive health challenges." She added: "Assisted reproductive technologies, including IVF have become an important part of family building for gay couples. This law would cushion the economic burden felt by LGBT Californians as they seek health services to grow their families." California Senator Caroline Menjivar, said when Governor Gavin Newsom approved the bill: "Today is a personal and emotional victory. And, it is a triumph for the many Californians who have been denied a path toward family-building because of the financial barriers that come with fertility treatment, their relationship status, or are blatantly discriminated against as a member of the LGBTQ+ community." She added: "When attacks on reproductive rights are occurring across the nation, Governor Newsom stood on the right side of history by expanding coverage for approximately 9 million Californians, including LGBTQ+ folks who were previously withheld equal opportunity to become parents under an archaic law that erased their rights." What Happens Next While fertility coverage will start on July 1 for state-run health insurance plans and large employers, many other plans will adopt the new ruling upon renewal, meaning for some employees, coverage may not be available until later this year and into 2026.
Independent Singapore
27-04-2025
- Business
- Independent Singapore
Smarter Tools, Stronger Agents: The importance of human connection in real estate
Depositphotos/DragonImages By Justin Quek As technology continues to transform the real estate industry, AI will become an integral part of the process. Real estate agents and their clients increasingly leverage AI to enhance efficiency, with industry players introducing AI-powered solutions across various platforms to support client needs. AI is continuously reshaping the property industry, from automated chatbots to using algorithms to provide property recommendations and predict market trends. The technology will continue to remain an ever-changing tool for clients and agents. However, it will be difficult to replace one major aspect of the industry – the human connection. The Role Of AI And How Agents Use It In Singapore's fast-paced and competitive property market, AI integration has transformed how agents and agencies operate, enabling them to deliver seamless, personalised services. With the rise of AI-powered market analysis tools, homebuyers can now make smarter and faster decisions, as AI can analyse data in mere seconds, helping with assessing risks and rewards to identify properties that align with clients' financial qualifications and investment goals. For agents, the availability of these tools reduces the need to manually search and analyse data. This will allow agents to save time and focus on giving advice based on their experience and provide unique insights, such as cultural nuances, which could elevate the client's understanding compared to the repetitive responses AI might give. In addition to reducing the wait time for clients to receive responses to their queries, these avenues assist in elevating the client-agent relationship and experience with personalised interactions and data-driven insights based on frequently asked questions. With the assistance of AI, not only can it save time for clients, but it also allows agents to provide them with informed options based on the client's unique needs. Role Of AI In Real Estate With time spent on repetitive administrative tasks by agents starting to dwindle with the assistance of AI, agents can focus on building relationships and personalising services based on the client's interaction and needs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the rapid advancement of AI and other digital tools has made property searches and research much more convenient for clients, with them having the option to partake in virtual tours of their ideal properties at their convenience to shortlist their choices. Yet, while they are narrowing down their choices, agents still have the opportunity to differentiate their services by how they provide a tangible experience that would ultimately affect the client's decision-making process. However, the benefits do not stop there, with real-estate platforms having been seen to decrease commission rates after integrating their versions of AI into their consumer journey. While at first glance, this may seem like a boon for agents and a win for clients, it is, however, truly a win-win. Agents are now able to focus their efforts on the negotiation and finishing touches of the transactions instead of handling the entire consumer journey. Buying Homes Requires A Human Touch As AI continues to advance, there is no doubt it will continue to integrate into our daily and professional lives. This begs the question: can AI replace agents? The short answer: No. Despite AI's numerous capabilities, the real estate market in Singapore remains human-driven. In a country that is land-scarce with high and increasing property values, purchasing a home is still a significant financial and emotional decision buyers make. Hence, homebuyers still rely on the guidance, assistance, and experience of agents to provide their expertise based on their understanding of the market while keeping in mind the client's financial restraints. AI-driven tools will continue to help more clients streamline property recommendations. However, they currently still lack the human touch needed to provide reassurance during the buying process. While AI models enhance efficiency, they do not yet possess the empathy and intuition of seasoned agents, whose human affirmation remains essential in easing uncertainty and ultimately closing deals. The Future Of Real Estate: AI And Agents In the entire consumer journey of purchasing a property, while there are aspects that AI can enable consumers and provide a better experience, there is still room for human intervention in certain areas, which can prove to be fruitful for buyers and sellers alike. In hindsight, AI should be viewed as a complement to existing services rather than a replacement. The future of AI in the real estate industry is not one about replacing agents; rather, it is about empowering them with efficient and effective tools to provide a more focused and higher-quality service to homebuyers. As the real estate industry continues to embrace more of the digital solutions available for its agents, the value of human expertise and connections remains paramount. The future of the industry lies not in choosing between AI and human engagement but in finding the balance between integrating the two to develop the best possible experience for the client while increasing the productivity of the agents. Justin Quek is the Chief Executive Officer of OrangeTee & Tie. Justin has a multifaceted experience as a property agent, proptech entrepreneur, and strategic manager. He championed initiatives like the Consumer Insider Series and Luxe by OrangeTee, empowering clients and agents to navigate the property sector in Singapore
