Hobbies are heating up.

More than a third of Americans say picking up a new hobby is on their retirement agenda, according to Empower research. But the trend isn't just for later in life — it's a hot topic at any age.

The global crafting and hobby market is projected to reach $74.3 billion by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 5.6% starting this year.

Prices on a range of popular recreational items — from sewing machines and fabric to books and photography equipment — fell as much as 1.9% year-over-year in March, according to the latest Consumer Price Index.

— The Editors 

❓ Burning question: Market swings are on a lot of minds. From 2010 to 2020, investors who stayed invested saw returns over $16,500 higher than those who missed the 10 best days. Explore the data behind market volatility on The Currency^TM.

🔥 ETF spending heats up: Investors are leaning into targeted themes and trends. During the week ending April 11, $36.3 billion* flowed into U.S.-listed exchange-traded funds (ETFs), pushing year-to-date ETF inflows above $340 billion. From e-sports to pet care and even the metaverse, niche ETFs are seeing growing interest.

🍯 Sweet and spicy: Hot honey has a grip on American appetites, whether as a pizza topping, wing sauce, or sandwich addition. Mike’s Hot Honey, the leading producer of the condiment, is projecting $60 million* in revenue this year and expects to see the trend expand* into coffee and desserts.

🏠 Red-hot listing: Multigenerational living is on the rise, with a record 17%* of home purchases in 2024 intended to share with extended family. Gen X leads the charge, balancing care for aging parents and adult kids. And while many say there is no best age* to buy a home, the median first-time buyer is now 38.

Sparking a conversation

Empower research shows that two-thirds of American adults never learned about personal finance in school and half say that money wasn’t discussed at home. But Gen Alpha, born starting in 2010, may change that.

More than half of Gen Alpha’s parents are already discussing spending, saving, and budgeting with their kids, often before age 4. Some have even opened money market accounts or a Roth IRA.

Teens, meanwhile, are learning through classes, non-profit programs, and finance videos on social media, with some starting investment portfolios before they graduate high school.

The hottest jobs in town

Certified public accountants (CPAs) are in high demand — so much so that seven states (Indiana, Georgia, Ohio, Virginia, New Mexico, Utah, and Hawaii) have passed laws in recent months to streamline CPA licensing.

The next step? How to entice Gen Z to the profession. A 2024 study* found that earning potential was the top external influence for students choosing a major. The Big Four accounting and consulting firms have also been raising entry-level wages in recent years, including double-digit increases for newly minted CPAs. The field is projected to grow 6% by 2033. 

Fun in the sun

Universal’s Epic Universe opens in May — the first major theme park development in Florida in 25* years. The amusement park is predicted to bring $2 billion to Florida’s economy in its first year and create 17,500 new jobs.

For visitors looking to skip the lines, express passes start at $129.99.*  Considering that Americans value an hour of their time at $240, according to Empower research, the cost could be worth it for many.  

Outdoor kitchens are becoming a fixture — literally. With Americans spending more on meals at home, the market for outdoor kitchen appliances is on track to surpass $15 billion by 2032.