No more! That tag may stick to younger Xers and even some older members of this generation, but there's no such thing as a typical Gen-Xer. As Generation X matures, it becomes more nuanced — aware of the value of money beyond providing self-gratification, and closely attuned to traditional family values. That makes well-heeled Gen-Xers interesting to the financial services industry, which is beginning to look past the hooked-on-MTV image it had of Generation X and like what it sees.

Gen-Xers understand they are living in a world of uncertainty, where neither the government nor private employers offer lifetime financial security. This is, however, the next generation of responsible adults, bright young people with families to protect and educate, and more than 30 years until retirement. Xers are risk-takers; many have launched high-tech and other businesses, are less tied down by old notions of how do to things, and are ready to put their own management styles to the test.

A few so-called "Netrepreneurs" are wildly successful, and making money hand-over-fist. They're the exceptions. Most Gen-Xers don't have a lot of money now, but, with time on their side, there's so much they can do.

You can help them get started.