I have been listening to plenty of "finance gurus" (i.e. my favorite is Dave Ramsey). I see (here in EU) that young people have 1-2 credit cards. I understand t

I have been listening to plenty of "finance gurus" (i.e. my favorite is Dave Ramsey). I see (here in EU) that young people have 1-2 credit cards. I understand that in the US the number is higher. The dream for any young (female) professional at the tender age of 25 is to own a couple of very expensive bags ("because I deserve it" using credit cards of course). Consumerism going steady. At least in the US you have the 401k. When I begin a discussion with friends/ acquaintances on "hey guys anyone got a decent EFT? I go my VOOG and SOXX all set up but I am looking to diversify further with some water, consumer, international, etc" and they look at me as if I speak some ancient language. So.. most save minimal, invest nothing. Paycheck-to-paycheck is a big thing in the US and it is happening in the EU now. (and don't get me started on parents of 14yo kids buying their kids the new iPhone every darn year)