Latest news with #KevinThompson
Newsweek
3 days ago
- Business
- Newsweek
Map Shows Best Cities for Gen Z Graduates
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. Gen Z is graduating into an uncertain economic environment. With high tariffs and a possible recession on the horizon, the choice they make in terms of where they live could significantly impact their financial situation. A new report by BizInsure identified the 25 best cities for Gen Z college graduates, based on factors related to tariffs, career growth, and lifestyle. Austin, Texas, took the top spot with San Francisco and Seattle not far behind. Why It Matters Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, is entering a turbulent economic outlook as they take their first jobs. According to a Glassdoor report, just 43 percent of Gen Z is optimistic about their employer's business outlook over the next six months. Tariffs, rising prices, and tighter hiring have created concerns across the country. What To Know Austin, Texas, was the top spot for Gen Z graduates to live in 2025, according to BizInsure. Just 2.8 percent of Austin's exports are under retaliatory sanctions, and the city also boasts high job listings (third in the country). Behind Austin, these cities made up the top 10: San Francisco, Seattle, Atlanta, Raleigh, Denver, Dallas, San Jose, Tampa, and Charlotte. The Southern cities ranked high, with Dallas, Houston, and Atlanta scoring 7th, 13th, and 4th, respectively, in the BizInsure report. "Some of these cities attract Gen Z because they're seeking places where they won't be swallowed whole by predatory landlords while trying to pay back crushing and debilitating student debt," Bryan Driscoll, an HR consultant who specializes in generational differences, told Newsweek. "They want affordable housing, genuine work-life balance, and companies that won't ghost them after five interviews." San Francisco, which took the second spot, typically offered high salaries, even for entry-level positions. It also ranked seventh in entertainment offerings, despite scoring 0 out of 10 for rent and overall costs. "Gen Z needs to take full advantage of the tech-driven economic engine that's driving these urban hubs," Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group and host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek. Meanwhile, the bottom five cities were all in California, with Fresno at number 98 and Bakersfield at number 99, both located in the San Joaquin Valley. Residents flock to the Austin Food & Wine Festival at Auditorium Shores on November 2, 2024. Residents flock to the Austin Food & Wine Festival at Auditorium Shores on November 2, People Are Saying Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek: "It may be surprising to some to see cities like Austin and San Francisco topping the list, as recent headlines have focused on the slowing growth of these cities. However, both, along with locations like Seattle and San Jose, offer tech-related positions that are free from the grasps of most of the recently announced tariffs and could be easier to obtain and maintain a new position based on that." Bryan Driscoll, an HR consultant who specializes in generational differences, told Newsweek: "The report is fascinating but also a brutal reminder of what Gen Z and many other generations are up against. Austin topping the list makes sense. It has a relatively affordable tech economy and a community that embraces differences. "But let's not pretend any of these cities are utopias. Most recent grads are still choosing between paying rent or saving anything." Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group and host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek: "None of these cities were surprising. They all share one thing: economic growth and strong job prospects, especially in tech. "Professionally, these cities offer a chance to connect with like-minded, eclectic individuals and be part of a vibrant, fast-paced environment. But long term, many in Gen Z may find themselves wanting to slow down, moving to the suburbs or smaller communities as priorities shift." What Happens Next Cost-of-living factors could still make some cities more financially burdensome for Gen Zers, depending on their income. "Gen Z will have to factor in the cost of living for some of these cities, which certainly can be a dealbreaker unless their career choice pays enough to cover rising expenses," Beene said. "For this reason, more affordable cities in the Southeastern United States like Atlanta and Nashville could offer the best balance of career choices and better costs."
Newsweek
5 days ago
- Business
- Newsweek
Gen Z Salary Expectations for First Job Surge From 2 Years Ago
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. Gen Z's salary expectations are skyrocketing as economic pressures mount. While male college graduates expected to earn $71,900 yearly in 2023, that number surged to $101,500 in 2025, according to ZipRecruiter. Why It Matters Gen Z-ers, those born between 1997 and 2012, may be entering a job market that doesn't meet their expectations. In 2025, recent graduates had an average salary of $68,400, which was more than $30,000 less than the expectations of rising graduates entering the workforce. What To Know In 2025, rising graduates expected a $101,500 salary on average, according to ZipRecruiter. That was a stark difference from what they actually brought in on average, a salary of $68,400. Salary expectations were also substantially higher than they were just two years ago, when ZipRecruiter reported that graduating women expected to earn $69,200, while men expected $71,900. That represents a nearly $23,000 increase when accounting for inflation. However, some workplace analysts believe it symbolizes that the younger generation is just becoming more aware of their own value. "Real wages have been falling for years, all while companies post record profits and reward execs with obscene bonuses and golden parachutes," HR consultant Bryan Driscoll told Newsweek. "Gen Z sees the disconnect and is willing to stand up to try to bridge the gap. They, like many other generations, realize their labor has value, and they're not afraid to walk if they're undervalued." Stock image of college graduates tossing their caps into the air. Stock image of college graduates tossing their caps into the air. Getty Images What People Are Saying Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital and the host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek: "Cost of living is up, and Gen Z isn't just feeling it, they're demanding more because of it. It's about rent, groceries, and the fact that homeownership feels like a fantasy for many. As inflation pushes prices higher, salary expectations naturally follow." Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek: "While some in prior generations will roll their eyes at Gen Z's salary expectations, these monetary desires, while mostly unrealistic, reflect the inflationary pressures Americans are facing and the realization the lifestyle they want to achieve requires a higher level of financial success. "Typically, younger members of the workforce want to spend more of their discretionary income on entertainment and travel, both industries that have seen a huge leap in pricing since the pandemic. It's easy to see when you factor in those prices, paired with the elevated cost of living, why many are calling for higher salaries right out of the gate." HR consultant Bryan Driscoll told Newsweek: "Gen Z isn't pulling the $100K number out of thin air. They're responding to the reality of skyrocketing rent, absurd student debt, and jobs that demand more while attempting to pay less. Honestly this is just about basic math, and I think they're under-calculating." What Happens Next Gen Z is expected to make up 58 percent of the global workforce by 2030, and their salary expectations could cause disarray between companies and workers. "Inflation doesn't just squeeze consumers; it squeezes employers too," Thompson said. "Why? Because to retain top talent, employers have to pay up. Gen Z knows their value and if one employer won't meet the mark, someone else will."
Newsweek
6 days ago
- Business
- Newsweek
Southwest Checked Bag Fee, Policy: What to Know as Prices Change Tomorrow
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. Southwest Airlines has updated its checked bag policy, and passengers will start paying extra tomorrow. Why It Matters Southwest has long allowed passengers to bring a guaranteed free checked bag, but that is changing tomorrow as the airline adopts a new policy. Airlines have faced headwinds in recent years due to larger economic uncertainty. Tariffs, shifting demand and higher jet fuel prices have all forced airlines to make changes to their business models, potentially leading to higher prices for consumers. A Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 taxis at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on May 16, 2025 in Arlington, Virginia. A Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 taxis at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on May 16, 2025 in Arlington, To Know Southwest Checked Bag Fee Beginning Wednesday, Southwest passengers will no longer get two guaranteed free checked bags when purchasing a flight. That prior rule is disappearing as the airline starts charging fees for checked bags for the first time ever. The first checked bag will cost $35, while the second checked bag will incur a $45 charge for most tickets. Higher costs will apply to overweight and oversized bags. Southwest Baggage Policy Southwest opted to switch its baggage policy as it makes larger business changes. The airline will also no longer allow passengers to self-select their own seats. There will also be added legroom for flyers. How to Still Get Free Bags on Southwest Customers may be able to skirt around the new baggage fee if they qualify for specific perks or rewards under Southwest. That includes Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members and customers traveling on Business Select or Choice Extra fares. This will allow you to still get your two free checked bags. Rapid Rewards A-List Members and Rapid Rewards credit card holders also get one free checked bag. What People Are Saying A Southwest spokesperson told Newsweek: "Southwest will be charging $35 for a first checked bag and $45 for a second checked bag (weight and size limits apply) for flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28." Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group and the host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek: "There's a running joke: if you want to become a millionaire, have a billionaire invest in an airline. I say that tongue in cheek, but it reflects a deeper truth. This industry is going to continue consolidating. Airlines will cut routes, cut costs, and push profitability as far as they can." Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek: "For many longtime Southwest flyers, the changes coming this week seem unfathomable. The airline has for decades prided itself being fee-free when it came to bags as many of its rivals started charging for them years ago... The online chatter was highly negative when the changes were first announced, with many claiming they would abandon Southwest. At the same point, talk doesn't always equate to business. It will be interesting to see if the initial angered feedback results in fewer profits moving forward." What Happens Next In February, Southwest Airlines said it would be laying off 1,750 employees for the first time in 50 years. Thompson said more layoffs and higher prices are likely ahead for the airline industry. "Expect activist investors to push changes the original founders never would've touched. We're already down to a few major carriers and if this trend holds competition will shrink as passengers end up paying more for less," Thompson said.
Miami Herald
23-05-2025
- Business
- Miami Herald
Study Of 73 College Degrees Finds Which Lead To Six-Figure Salaries
College graduates who majored in STEM fields were most likely to go on to earn six-figure salaries, according to recent data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Some Americans have grown increasingly disillusioned about whether college is worth the time and money, as tuition costs soar and many graduates are left saddled with ballooning student debt. But despite the costs, research has shown that having a degree can significantly increase earning potential and college graduates can use their degrees to earn high salaries if they choose the right major. The New York Fed studied the median early and mid-career salaries of graduates across 73 college majors. The majors that led to the highest salaries include computer science, computer engineering, aerospace engineering and chemical engineering, where the median early-career annual salary is above $80,000 a year, according to the data. By the time those graduates are mid-career, their median salaries climb to more than $115,000 annually. But it's not just those who with computer science and engineering degrees who can earn six-figure salaries. The data shows that those who majored in economics and finance earn a median salary of $110,000 by mid-career, while those with degrees in physics, mathematics, international affairs and business analytics earn a median salary of $100,000. On the other end of the spectrum, degrees in education are the lowest-paying. Those who majored in early childhood education earn the least by the mid-career, with a median salary of $49,000. The best-paying college majors for early-career earnings are: Computer science-$80,000 Computer engineering-$80,000 Chemical engineering-$80,000 Electrical engineering-$78,000 Industrial engineering-$76,000 Aerospace engineering-$76,000 Mechanical engineering-$75,000 Civil engineering-$71,000 Physics-$70,000 Miscellaneous engineering-$70,000 The best-paying degrees for mid-career earnings are: Aerospace engineering-$125,000 Computer engineering-$122,000 Electrical engineering-$120,000 Chemical engineering-$120,000 Mechanical engineering-$115,000 Computer science-$115,000 Finance-$110,000 Economics-$110,000 Miscellaneous engineering-$108,000 Industrial engineering-$108,000 Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group and the host of the 9innings podcast, previously told Newsweek: "It's all about demand. Engineering, computer science, and business salaries are rising because the market warrants it. On the flip side, majors like Social Sciences and Communications saw some of the biggest pay drops. That probably points to oversupply. The job market moves in cycles, and right now, it's rewarding skills tied directly to production, innovation, and scale." Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, previously told Newsweek that engineering and computer science "have been fields that have been in expansion mode for the better part of two decades. As such, jobs tend to be more plentiful with a limited talent pool, causing salaries to increase over time." Students wanting to maximize their earning potential could increasingly pursue degrees in STEM fields, while those pursuing degrees in subjects that lead to lower-paying jobs may need to pursue additional skills and qualifications to earn higher salaries. But in some fields, a college degree may not be needed to earn a good salary. Some companies are dropping requirements for a degree, prioritizing skills and experience over education when hiring. Related Articles Gen Z, Alpha Embrace Trade Schools More as They Sour on CollegeThe Good Life: A Tough, but Promising Path Ahead for College GradsCollege Students Want Their Money Back After Professor Caught Using ChatGPTBryan Kohberger Trial Update as Judge Lays Out Guidelines 2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
Newsweek
23-05-2025
- Business
- Newsweek
Study Of 73 College Degrees Finds Which Lead To Six-Figure Salaries
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. College graduates who majored in STEM fields were most likely to go on to earn six-figure salaries, according to recent data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Why It Matters Some Americans have grown increasingly disillusioned about whether college is worth the time and money, as tuition costs soar and many graduates are left saddled with ballooning student debt. But despite the costs, research has shown that having a degree can significantly increase earning potential and college graduates can use their degrees to earn high salaries if they choose the right major. A file photo shows two graduates. A file photo shows two graduates. iStock What To Know The New York Fed studied the median early and mid-career salaries of graduates across 73 college majors. The majors that led to the highest salaries include computer science, computer engineering, aerospace engineering and chemical engineering, where the median early-career annual salary is above $80,000 a year, according to the data. By the time those graduates are mid-career, their median salaries climb to more than $115,000 annually. But it's not just those who with computer science and engineering degrees who can earn six-figure salaries. The data shows that those who majored in economics and finance earn a median salary of $110,000 by mid-career, while those with degrees in physics, mathematics, international affairs and business analytics earn a median salary of $100,000. On the other end of the spectrum, degrees in education are the lowest-paying. Those who majored in early childhood education earn the least by the mid-career, with a median salary of $49,000. The best-paying college majors for early-career earnings are: Computer science—$80,000 Computer engineering—$80,000 Chemical engineering—$80,000 Electrical engineering—$78,000 Industrial engineering—$76,000 Aerospace engineering—$76,000 Mechanical engineering—$75,000 Civil engineering—$71,000 Physics—$70,000 Miscellaneous engineering—$70,000 The best-paying degrees for mid-career earnings are: Aerospace engineering—$125,000 Computer engineering—$122,000 Electrical engineering—$120,000 Chemical engineering—$120,000 Mechanical engineering—$115,000 Computer science—$115,000 Finance—$110,000 Economics—$110,000 Miscellaneous engineering—$108,000 Industrial engineering—$108,000 What People Are Saying Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group and the host of the 9innings podcast, previously told Newsweek: "It's all about demand. Engineering, computer science, and business salaries are rising because the market warrants it. On the flip side, majors like Social Sciences and Communications saw some of the biggest pay drops. That probably points to oversupply. The job market moves in cycles, and right now, it's rewarding skills tied directly to production, innovation, and scale." Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, previously told Newsweek that engineering and computer science "have been fields that have been in expansion mode for the better part of two decades. As such, jobs tend to be more plentiful with a limited talent pool, causing salaries to increase over time." What's Next Students wanting to maximize their earning potential could increasingly pursue degrees in STEM fields, while those pursuing degrees in subjects that lead to lower-paying jobs may need to pursue additional skills and qualifications to earn higher salaries. But in some fields, a college degree may not be needed to earn a good salary. Some companies are dropping requirements for a degree, prioritizing skills and experience over education when hiring.
