Loud Budgeting”: The Trendy Art of Proudly Counting Pennies

In the ever-evolving landscape of personal finance, a new trend is making waves – “Loud Budgeting.” This 2024 sensation stands in stark contrast to the quiet luxury of yesteryear, where a discreet Hermes bag and a pricey camel coat subtly hinted at affluence. Loud budgeting, on the other hand, is a wholesale rejection of aspirational consumerism, an open embrace of thriftiness, and, surprisingly, a chic flex.

Originating from a viral TikTok post by Lukas Battle, the philosophy is simple: it’s not about lacking funds but choosing not to spend unnecessarily. Battle contends that rich people often despise extravagant spending, making loud budgeting a stylish and fashionable choice.

The trend has gained traction in the United States, with social media abuzz with advice on “broadcasting spending limits” and advocating for financial transparency with friends. Some techniques include using “deactivation stickers” on credit cards to stay mindful of savings goals, turning down expensive social invitations while candidly explaining the reasons, unfollowing luxury brands on social media, and taking pride in packing one’s lunch.

Far from communism, loud budgeting is positioned as a key to capitalism, emphasizing the power of frugality. Although the concept of budgeting is not new, it seems to be a fresh approach for Generation Z, who are encouraged to proudly bring their homemade coffee to navigate financial challenges. Whether this trend alleviates the stigma associated with budgeting in challenging times remains to be seen, but for now, it’s making noise in personal finance circles.

In this era of loud budgeting, the question is not about being mean but about being financially savvy, turning frugality into a trendy lifestyle choice.

Do say: “If it takes the stigma out of budgeting in these difficult times, then I’m all for it.”

Don’t say: “Are you gonna eat that?”