The Tipping Culture’s New Twist

But what really stuck with me was this: that $5–$6 they’re spending every day adds up. The dreaded MBA (and cheapskate) in me kicked in and asked:

What’s the value of $5 a day, 5 days a week, 52 weeks a year, at 8% over time?

(For the record, 8% is roughly the long-term return of the S&P 500. And yes, this is called the future value of an annuity.)
Assuming, of course, that their $6 coffee habit generously gives itself weekends off.

I know what you’re thinking:
“Oh no… one of those guys.”
Answer: Yep. That’s me. And honestly, I’m glad it is.

The Damage
5 Years
Total contributed: $9,125
Future value: ≈ $10,700

10 Years
Total contributed: $18,250
Future value: ≈ $26,400

15 Years
Total contributed: $27,375
Future value: ≈ $54,000

25 Years
Total contributed: $45,625
Future value: ≈ $144,600

The current working generation is facing a massive wave of uncertainty—especially with AI reshaping everything. My son, a developer and generally an optimistic guy, regularly gives me an earful from the “woe is me” rumor mill.

And honestly? I get it.

If I were in that position, I’d start by building the pile. The pile isn’t just money—it’s options. It’s time. And in uncertain times, those are everything. I go deeper on this in my article Use Your Downtime To Protect Your Career

A $6 cup of coffee?
No bueno.

Anyway, back to tipping.

I’m pretty sure the radio host’s point was this: You want a tip… on top of an already overpriced, sugar-laden, waist-expanding $6 cup of coffee? Sweet Moses.

Recent data backs this up. According to the Pew Research Center’s study on tipping culture in America , nearly three-quarters of Americans say tipping is now expected in more places than it was just a few years ago.

Even the ever-diplomatic ChatGPT weighs in with:

That said, I’m not heartless.

I remember getting ice cream a few years back, and the kid at the counter had a tip jar labeled “College Fund.” I tossed a buck in—because I’m a sucker for a good cause.

Call me a cheapskate curmudgeon, but here’s my rule:
I tip for actual personal service—20%. Everything else?

Let’s just say… the iPad and I are going to have a very short conversation.

This article isn’t about judging anyone’s choices—it’s about recognizing tradeoffs. There are many ways to build that pile, but build it you should. When the credit crisis hit in 2008, it was a bump in the road for me, largely because I had a pile, a thrifty partner in life and no debt..

As usual please feel free to comment I always learn something from them. Just keep it adult, on point and kind.