Categories: BUSINESSTOP STORIES

International Women’s Day 2025: How Women Can Rewrite Their Wealth Stories

International Women’s Day 2025: For generations, money has been an uncomfortable subject for women. While men have traditionally taken charge of financial decision-making, women have often been sidelined in conversations about investments, wealth creation, and financial planning. This deeply ingrained cultural norm has had long-term consequences, with financial literacy among women remaining significantly lower than men. According to a study by the National Centre for Financial Education, only 20% of Indian women are financially literate, compared to 27% of men. This disparity is more than just a statistic—it represents lost potential, economic dependency, and, in many cases, financial insecurity.

Shifting the Narrative: Women Taking Charge of Their Finances

Yet, the narrative is shifting. With more women stepping into leadership roles, becoming entrepreneurs, and making independent financial choices, the importance of financial literacy has never been more critical. Financial empowerment is not just about making money, it’s about understanding how to manage, invest, and grow it. Women who take control of their finances experience greater independence, security, and confidence in shaping their futures. The key, however, is breaking the long-standing money taboo and encouraging open, informed discussions around wealth creation.

The Economic Impact of Financially Empowered Women

India’s economic growth is directly tied to the financial participation of women. Studies suggest that if women participated in the workforce at the same rate as men, India’s GDP could increase by 27%. But participation alone is not enough—women must also have the financial literacy and confidence to make independent financial decisions. Despite progress, a significant portion of women in India still lack access to basic banking services, investment knowledge, and long-term financial planning. Without these tools, financial security remains elusive, and the cycle of dependency continues.

Overcoming the Fear of Financial Mismanagement

One of the biggest hurdles women face is the fear of financial mismanagement. Years of exclusion from money-related discussions have led many women to believe that finance is too complex or that they might make costly mistakes. This fear often keeps them from exploring investment opportunities, understanding taxation, or even budgeting effectively. By fostering financial literacy and creating a safe space to discuss money, initiatives like Women on Wealth help women break free from these self-imposed limitations.

Changing Societal Perceptions Around Women and Wealth

Another critical aspect of financial empowerment is reshaping societal perceptions. Conversations about wealth creation should not be confined to men. Families, workplaces, and educational institutions must actively encourage financial discussions among women from an early age. Financial literacy should be integrated into school curricula, ensuring that young girls grow up with a strong foundation in money management. Employers can also play a role by offering financial planning workshops and investment education as part of their employee benefits programs.

The Need for Policy and Institutional Support

Policymakers must also step up efforts to create financial opportunities for women. Government-backed schemes promoting financial inclusion, tax benefits for women investors, and initiatives encouraging female entrepreneurship can significantly accelerate progress. Additionally, banks and financial institutions need to design products that cater specifically to women’s financial needs, offering customised investment options, flexible savings plans, and mentorship programs.

Taking Action: The Path to Financial Independence

The journey to financial empowerment is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about taking action. Women must actively seek financial education, be it through formal training, reading financial literature, or engaging in discussions with experts. Small steps, such as opening an investment account, setting financial goals, or building an emergency fund, can lead to significant long-term benefits. It’s also essential for women to create financial support networks where they can exchange ideas, share insights, and learn from each other’s experiences.

Breaking the Money Taboo

Breaking the money taboo is more than just a social shift; it’s an economic imperative. When women take control of their financial futures, they contribute not only to their own well-being but also to the broader economy. The ripple effect of financially empowered women extends to families, communities, and the nation as a whole. By rewriting their wealth stories, women are not just securing their futures—they are reshaping India’s economic landscape for the better. The time for change is now, and the first step begins with a conversation.

By Priyanka Bhatia, Co-founder, Women on Wealth