Why aren’t women investing?
I remember it vividly: sitting in a financial management class during business school, surrounded by classmates as we dove into SPY, QQQ, equity trading, and shorting hedge fund strategies. While the jargon swirled around the room, I felt a mix of excitement and curiosity. I wasn’t just observing the conversation; I had my own trading strategies and stories to share—many of which stemmed from that surreal period during COVID when retail investing became the thing. Like thousands of others, I ventured into the world of equities and options, only to realize something unsettling: the language and culture of finance often felt like an exclusive club.
But here’s the twist—this club shouldn’t feel exclusive at all. Women are the economy. We drive nearly 70-80% of consumer spending decisions globally. Yet, when it comes to investing, we still see barriers: fewer women participate, fewer women invest early, and even fewer see themselves as investors.
This gap reminds me of the first time I read Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg. Just as she changed how I viewed leadership, the world of investing needs its own narrative shift—one where women don’t just participate but lead the conversation around financial freedom.
Investing and the Weight Room Analogy
I often compare investing to the weight room at the gym. For years, the weight room was a space dominated by men. You’d see only a few women navigating those heavy dumbbells, racks, and machines. But things have changed: today, more women are stepping in, lifting with confidence, and claiming their space. Investing is no different. While it may feel intimidating at first, the power of financial knowledge can transform lives, providing independence, freedom, and opportunity.
The Numbers Speak Loudly
Women in Business School: While enrollment in MBA programs has been climbing, women still only make up about 41% of business school classes in the U.S. (Forté Foundation, 2023).
Women in Finance & Venture Capital: Despite progress, women remain significantly underrepresented. Only 12% of decision-makers at U.S. venture capital firms are women. And in finance more broadly, women make up just 28% of senior leadership roles (McKinsey, 2023).
Financial Confidence Gap: A recent survey by Ellevest found that only 34% of women feel confident about investing their money, compared to 60% of men.
Clearly, women aren’t lacking capability—they’re lacking access, confidence, and representation. If we’re driving the consumer economy, shouldn’t we also be driving wealth creation?
The Path Forward: Financial Education and Small Steps
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that investing isn’t about having millions to start. Sometimes, all it takes is a small step and the right knowledge. Programs and pathways that teach women—starting in college—how to invest even $1,000 to $2,000 in equities can create outsized impact. The earlier you start, the more you benefit from compounding.
For anyone reading this who feels unsure or risk-averse (trust me, I get it—I was originally on a dental school path), here’s the truth: financial liberty is in reach. The weight room feels daunting until you pick up that first dumbbell. Investing is the same. Start small, learn the language, and watch as confidence grows alongside your financial gains.
Why It Matters
Financial independence isn’t just about money—it’s about freedom. It’s about choices. It’s about having a say in your life’s trajectory. As more women invest, we’ll close the confidence gap, the wealth gap, and the opportunity gap.
So, let’s start. Pick up that first stock, open that brokerage account, and watch as doors to financial stability swing open
