An area where progress remains frustratingly slow for women is financial autonomy. While more women are earning today, financial independence is not always translating into financial control. Women may have access to money, but they are often not empowered to grow, manage, or invest it.
Across my conversations with women from diverse cultural, social and economic backgrounds, a pattern emerged. Many shared that while they were encouraged to earn, they were rarely encouraged to invest. Several admitted they didn’t begin investing until much later in life — often after marriage and even then, with the help or approval of a male relative. A significant number said they left financial decisions entirely to their partners, despite being highly educated and professionally accomplished.
This isn’t merely anecdotal. A recent UBS report revealed that 58 per cent of women globally defer long-term financial decisions to their spouses. A Fidelity study in the US found that although 67 per cent of women are saving, only 33 per cent feel confident investing. This points to a deeper issue rooted in social conditioning and psychological barriers.
From an early age, girls are typically taught to be careful with money — to save, not invest. They’re taught to manage household budgets rather than build wealth. In contrast, boys are often encouraged to take financial risks. Girls hear phrases like ‘Be responsible with money’, not ‘Make your money work for you’.
Even today, across many households and cultures, major financial decisions —insurance, investments, long-term planning — are primarily handled by men. This lack of autonomy has serious consequences. Without financial confidence or control, women become vulnerable during life crises — a divorce, the death of a spouse, or a financial downturn.
A lot can be done but it needs to start early. Financial literacy must be made part of core education, with schools teaching budgeting, saving and investing as essential life skills. But education alone isn’t enough.
Organisations, communities and governments must step up to offer mentorship programmes, accessible resources and judgment-free learning spaces tailored for women. These initiatives must be consistent and culturally sensitive.
Equally important is representation. We need more women talking openly about money — on podcasts, in media, in workshops. When women see others managing wealth, investing smartly and sharing their financial journeys, it normalises female financial agency. Shared experiences inspire others to begin their own journey towards autonomy.
This movement isn’t just about economic equality — it’s about empowerment. Financially confident women are more likely to invest in their future, their children’s education and their communities. Financial autonomy is not a luxury; it's a necessity for genuine gender equality.
It’s time we break the silence around women and money — and begin global conversations that change not just the metrics, but the mindset.
Sangeeta Relan
The writer is Assoc Prof at Delhi University, research scholar and author
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