What it is: Germans LOVE cash. Like, they use it for everything. Credit cards are way less common than in the US. Why they do it: The philosophy: If you can’t afford it with cash, you can’t afford it. What we can learn: We swipe cards without thinking. Studies show people spend 12-18% more when […]
Germany: Cash is King Read More »
What it is: A “tanda” is an informal savings club, similar to Kenya’s harambee. How it works: Why it matters: What we can learn: Sometimes the “official” financial system isn’t the only way. Community-based saving can work when you have trust and accountability. Modern take: You could do this with friends—everyone puts in $50/month, and
Mexico: The Tanda System Read More »
I wrote about this before, but it’s worth mentioning again because it’s so different from the American way. What it is: Multiple generations living together and pooling resources. How it works: What we can learn: American culture is obsessed with independence—move out at 18, make it on your own. But that’s expensive and honestly kind
India: Joint Family Economics (What I Saw This Summer) Read More »
What it is: Young South Koreans are part of what’s called the “N-Po Generation” (N-give-up generation), where they’re giving up on traditional milestones like marriage, houses, and kids because they’re financially unattainable. But there’s also a counter-movement: “YOLO economy” and “small luxuries.” How it works: The philosophy: If major financial milestones (house, kids) are unrealistic
South Korea: The “N-Po Generation” Mindset Read More »
What it is: “Harambee” means “all pull together” in Swahili. It’s a tradition of community fundraising and collective saving. How it works: The philosophy: Financial success isn’t just individual—it’s collective. You help others, and they help you. What we can learn: We’re so individualistic in the US. It’s all “pull yourself up by your bootstraps.”
Kenya: Harambee (Community Saving) Read More »
What it is: “Lagom” (pronounced “lah-gom”) is a Swedish word that means “just the right amount.” It’s their whole philosophy about balance. How it applies to money: The philosophy: Enough is enough. You don’t need excess to be happy. What we can learn: American culture is SO focused on “more”—bigger house, nicer car, more stuff.
Sweden: Lagom (Not Too Much, Not Too Little) Read More »
What it is: Kakeibo (pronounced “kah-keh-boh”) is a Japanese budgeting method that’s been around for over 100 years. It’s basically a journal where you physically write down every purchase and reflect on whether it was necessary. How it works: The philosophy: It’s not just about numbers—it’s about mindfulness. By writing it down, you become more
Japan: The Art of Kakeibo (Mindful Spending) Read More »
