Closing the Gender Gap in Investing
Gender equality and improving women’s financial security need to be addressed. Historically, women are less likely than men to invest their money, and research by Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies show they tend to invest less overall. Another recent study found that if women invested at the same rate as men, there would be an additional $3.22 trillion in global assets under management.
Investing can help grow wealth, generate passive income, and build retirement savings. The findings have significant implications for women’s long-term financial well-being. Experts are calling for changes within the financial community to find a solution.
Why Closing the Gender Gap in Investing is Important
Women are more likely to live longer than men. This means they should have more money saved for their retirement as they have to live longer. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Women also take more career breaks to care for children or aging parents than men. On top of all of this, they also face a gender pay gap. As a result, women tend to have lower retirement savings, and they may struggle to maintain their standard of living in retirement.
Investing
Investing can help women overcome these challenges and achieve their long-term financial goals. Women should have more opportunities to grow wealth, generate passive income, and build retirement savings. However, women are less likely to invest than men, and when they invest, they invest less overall. This means that women may miss out on the benefits of investing and struggle to achieve financial security in the long term. “Building wealth takes time,” says Daniel Lerner, Executive Vice President of Investments at David Lerner Associates. Lerner states, “If you are nervous or unsure of how to proceed with your investments you should get advice from a professional. They can help guide you on your journey and suggest both steps to take and education if needed.”
Closing the Gender Gap in Investing
Closing the gender gap in investing requires a concerted effort. Here are some steps that can be taken to achieve this goal:
Increase Financial Literacy
One of the key barriers to women’s investment is a lack of financial literacy. Many women may not have access to the knowledge and tools needed to make informed investment decisions. The lack of knowledge is holding them back. A lot of groundwork needs to be done. Financial literacy can be increased through education and training programs, workshops, and seminars. Women’s groups and community organizations can play an important role in providing these resources to women who may not have access to traditional financial education. Programs should focus on building more robust financial literacy in women across America. Increasing financial literacy among women will help them overcome the barriers to financial security.
Promote Gender Diversity in the Financial Industry
Another key factor in closing the gender gap in investing is promoting gender diversity in the financial industry. Women are underrepresented in the financial industry, particularly in leadership positions. By promoting gender diversity, women can be better represented in the industry and have more opportunities to invest and build wealth. This can be achieved through initiatives such as mentorship programs, career development opportunities, and the promotion of women in leadership positions. Institutions can also create investment products and services that cater to the unique needs of women.
By closing the gender gap in investing, women will have improved financial security. When women have equal access to investment opportunities and education, they are more likely to achieve financial independence and build wealth.
IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES
Material contained in this article is provided for information purposes only and is not intended to be used in connection with the evaluation of any investments offered by David Lerner Associates, Inc.
This material does not constitute an offer or recommendation to buy or sell securities and should not be considered in connection with the purchase or sale of securities.
To the extent that this material concerns tax matters, it is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by a taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed by law. Each taxpayer should seek independent advice from a tax professional based on his or her individual circumstances.
These materials are provided for general information and educational purposes based upon publicly available information from sources believed to be reliable– we cannot assure the accuracy or completeness of these materials. The information in these materials may change at any time and without notice.
David Lerner Associates does not provide tax or legal advice. The information presented here is not specific to any individual’s personal circumstances.
Member FINRA & SIPC.