Have you ever encountered the stereotype that women aren’t as proficient with money management and investing as men? It’s a pervasive belief, but is it rooted in reality?
In my view, the notion that women lag behind in investing prowess is more reflective of outdated perceptions than actual data. When we delve into the numbers, a different narrative emerges—one where women excel. And as they say, facts and figures speak volumes!
Research from Fidelity Investments reveals that women’s investment portfolios typically yield higher returns than men’s, boasting an annual surplus of approximately 0.4 per cent. Additionally, a study by Warwick Business School highlights that female investors outperform their male counterparts by an impressive 1.8 per cent annually.
So, why do these discrepancies exist? One reason could be differences in investment behavior between men and women. Research suggests that women typically show traits such as patience, risk awareness, and long-term perspective, which can translate into more prudent investment decisions. On the other hand, men may engage in riskier behaviors, such as frequent trading or chasing short-term gains, which can ultimately lead to lower returns.
It’s essential to recognise that financial literacy and investment skills are not predetermined by gender but are instead shaped by certain factors, including education, experience, and access to resources. But even though women are proving themselves as smart investors, a lot more needs to be done to help us get even better.
Here are some pivotal considerations:
Education: Providing more avenues for women to learn about finance and investing is imperative. Armed with knowledge, we can make informed decisions.
Support Networks: Establishing forums where women can discuss finances and investment strategies, exchange insights, and offer mutual support can be immensely beneficial. Community engagement can be a game-changer.
Long-Term Perspective: Encouraging women to adopt a forward-looking approach to investments can yield superior outcomes. Practicing patience and resilience during market fluctuations is paramount.
Access to Resources: Ensuring equitable access to financial tools, guidance, and investment platforms is essential. Women should have the same opportunities for financial advice and investment options as their male counterparts.
So, the bottom line is that the idea that women aren’t good at investing simply isn’t true. With the right support and resources, we can help thrive in the world of investing. Let’s ditch the old stereotypes and recognise what women bring to the table.
Who runs the world? Girls!!! I’ll leave it at that.
Keisha Bailey, the author, is a financial expert who teaches people how to earn passive income, create wealth, and achieve financial freedom through investing. She works closely with investors to build highly profitable portfolios that help them build wealth faster. If you’re looking to learn how to level up your finances, you can get in touch with her at [email protected]
