Skimm Money·

Skimm Money: MoneyTok Red Flags, Venmo, and the Gen Z Workforce

Women own less, save less, carry more debt, and are less financially literate than men. That changes now.

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We asked you to vote on a question you’d like answered. The winner was:

Red flags to look for when following a money influencer on TikTok?

FEATURED EXPERT:

Juan

Juan

World's luckiest fiancé 

Consider the influencer's credentials. Do they have any relevant ones? Another red flag to watch out for is any influencer promising you instant wealth or overnight success. Financial success takes time, patience, and consistent effort, not a get-rich-quick scheme that's more likely to get you into trouble than to fatten your wallet. Finally, be wary of influencers who promote risky investments, questionable strategies, or make outlandish claims without evidence to back them up. To avoid falling into that trap, look for influencers who provide legitimate, well-reasoned advice that aligns with recognized financial principles.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. You can read an extended version here.

money win

An inside look at how women are building wealth.

I paid off my student loans on September 1, right before interest began again! I had about $75,000 in undergrad and graduate loans and met my goal of paying them off before I turned 30 (I’m 28). I’m throwing a huge party to celebrate this milestone!

— Kathryn W (CO). Cue the confetti. Psst…here are five strategies for paying off student loans ahead of schedule.

Scored a raise, saved up for a big purchase, or reached another money goal? Tell us about it here. Quotes are edited and condensed for clarity.

for the group chat

The money stories everyone’s talking about.

Employers are cutting work perks to save $$$…

But they want to keep working parents happy.


Juggling multiple jobs sounds stressful…

Would an $820,000 combined salary be worth it?


Thanks to a new Venmo feature…

Splitting bachelorette party bills just got easier.


Poorer communities and communities of color are often offered worse Internet deals than their neighbors…

Enter: New FCC rules to combat digital discrimination.

investment piece

 The items celebs and influencers think are worth the big bucks.

Nicole Cardoza headshot next to photo of suitcase

Nicole Cardoza is an entrepreneur whose work centers on the well-being of Black queer communities. Annnd she’s also a magician (really) who can be found performing her show around the world. One trick she has up her sleeve for making her worldwide travels easier? It’s not a rabbit in a hat, but a $$$ heavy-duty suitcase that can withstand her busy schedule.

Tell us about a recent investment purchase.

As a magician, I take at least one flight a week to perform in cities around the world. After trying nearly every suitcase you can imagine, I finally caved and got the Rimowa Original Cabin aluminum carry-on and haven't looked back.

How much did you spend on it?

$1,430.

Why do you consider it a good investment?

My suitcase is essentially my home away from home. Having a quality carry-on that I know will keep my magic props safe gives me peace of mind. And the lifetime guarantee means that I'm set! This baby will last as long as I do.

Answers are edited and condensed for clarity.

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