The 40-year-old millennial and the 24-year-old Gen Zer are in charge of America right now

Gen Z has influencing power. Millennials have spending power. The oldest member of each generation is writing the next chapter of American life.

The oldest of Gen Z is influencing the economy in a big way. Tim P. Whitby/Getty Images

By Hillary Hoffower and Andy Kiersz

The 40-year-old and the 24-year-old are the talk of the town right now.

The oldest millennial, who turns 40 this year, has the most spending power. They’ve mostly recovered from a decade-long struggle following the 2008 financial crisis, and they’re spending on the biggest purchase of their lives: houses.

The oldest Gen Zer, who turns 24 this year, has more sway in consumer behavior. A decade before they replace millennials as the largest spenders, they’re already seen as tastemakers, a role every generation takes on during this life stage.

Everything from your buying choices to your lifestyle choices are likely being shaped by the oldest members of these generations.

Meet the people shaping the world you’ll live in for the next decade, or two.

The 40-year-old millennial has spending power

Millennials have become the economic driving force in America. They’re the largest generation, represent the biggest…