Curious

I’m an expat living here with what I’d consider an average salary package. Over the past 5 years, even though my salary has increased, my expenses have gone up just as much because of the rising cost of living. In the end, I’m saving almost the same amount every month as I did years ago.

What genuinely surprises me is seeing so many people — especially teenagers, school students, and college students — carrying luxury bags, wearing expensive clothes, and maintaining what looks like a very high-end lifestyle.

I understand some families are wealthy, but surely not everyone can comfortably afford this. So I’m curious about the mindset and financial habits behind it.

Do young people today prioritize lifestyle and social image more than long-term savings? Are many of these purchases funded by parents, side income, credit, second-hand markets, or something else I’m not aware of?

Not judging anyone — I’m honestly trying to understand how people think about money, spending, and saving nowadays.