Education is often relegated to a non-essential

Young South Africans are showing a clear appetite for entertainment, fast food and fashionable brands, and some use credit cards to fund much of it.

- By Boitumelo Kgobotlo

This is according to Standard Bank Youth Barometer report released on Wednesday.

Shené Mothilal, Solution Owner of Digital Money Manager, said the spending habits of the youth reveal a notable focus on lifestyle-driven choices, particularly among those aged 18 to 24.

While essentials such as groceries, transport and housing still make up the majority of youth spending, the report shows that a significant portion of their income is allocated to “discretionary” expenses.

These include restaurant bills, fitness and self-care, travel, entertainment and high-end clothing.