iscoverAs concern circulates around the older generations' wealth and the possibilities they will have in terms of financial prosperity, HLB Mann Judd says “it's not as bad as it seems”.
Gen X urged to make the most of their wealth opportunities
13 October 2025
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8 minute read
The accounting firm is of the opinion that Generation X are sitting on untapped wealth and are in a strong position to drive their financial future in a positive direction.
Lindzi Caputo, HLB Mann Judd Sydney wealth management partner, said Gen X were sitting on far more wealth than they realised and were not using it strategically.
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Caputo added that Gen X were often overlooked in the generational wealth and were now at risk of entering a critical financial stage.
“Many gen Xers are asset-rich but strategy-poor. They’ve benefited from compulsory superannuation and rising property prices, yet few have a structured plan to make that wealth work for them,” Caputo said.
“For many, financial independence or early retirement could be a realistic goal, but it requires more than relying on property and superannuation. Now is the time to plan intentionally.”
Caputo called on the older generation to be more proactive in their financial future as retirement dawned on the horizon it would become harder to solidify a strategic and foolproof security net.
According to the accounting firm, it was important to move away from the predetermined thought that the family home was the only bulk of wealth that mattered.
“If the mortgage is less than 50 per cent of the property’s value, that’s often the tipping point where it makes sense to start looking at other investment opportunities,” Caputo said.
“A more balanced portfolio with liquid assets such as shares or managed funds can provide both growth and flexibility.”
Another avenue that was often relied upon was superannuation, but those outside of retirement age were still a way off from accessing it and therefore needed solidified wealth in place.
Caputo said people in their late 40s were still around 15 to 20 years from retirement which is what made it crucial to consider investments that were accessible and could be actively managed outside of super.
“Debt can be a powerful tool, but it needs to be managed prudently. Borrowing to invest in liquid assets can accelerate wealth creation, provided repayments are sustainable and the asset can be easily sold if needed,” she said.
“And ideally, that debt should be cleared before retirement.”
From this, it was recommended for those within the Gen X demographic to pour more effort into inheritance and legacy planning.
“Framing inheritance discussions as conversations about legacy rather than loss helps families align their values and intentions. Structures like testamentary trusts can protect wealth and ensure it benefits future generations,” Caputo said.
“When these conversations happen in advance, with powers of attorney and enduring guardianships in place, it reduces strain on families and ensures smoother transitions. Once an inheritance is received, paying down non-deductible debt and maximising super contributions should be the first priorities.”
“With strategic thinking, diversification, and open family conversations, this generation can create a retirement that is both secure and fulfilling. But the key is to start now, because when it comes to financial independence, time and intention are everything.”
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