Article

Empowering Financial Independence for Women

Empowering Financial Independence for Women

Women often face unique financial challenges and need to proactively plan by having a voice in their retirement plans for their needs. This article looks at four main financial challenges most women face as they approach retirement. Financial independence is not just about survival – it’s about thriving in every phase of life.

June 3, 2024
Empowering Financial Independence for Women
Important Disclosure: Content on our website and in our newsletters is for informational purposes only. The information provided may (or may not) directly apply to your situation. We recommend that readers work directly with a professional advisor when making decisions in the context of their specific situation.

As we witness a societal shift with more women taking control of their financial health, it's clear that financial empowerment is no longer a men's only domain. This is crucial, especially considering that the average age of widowhood is around 59, leaving women with many years to manage their finances independently.

Consequently, it's more important than ever for women to have a voice in their retirement plans and work with a financial advisor who comprehends their unique needs. However, women face four main financial challenges as they approach retirement:

Relying on Spouses for Financial Matters

Historically, women have relied on their spouses to handle financial affairs. This dependency can leave women unprepared to manage their finances in the event of divorce or a spouse's death. It's imperative for women to actively participate in all financial decisions, understand where their money is invested, and know how to access it.

An informed financial advisor can help women familiarize themselves with their financial landscape, enabling them to make informed decisions about their future.

Conservative Investment Approach

Typically, women are more risk-averse than men when it comes to investing. This conservative approach might offer a sense of security, but it may also result in lower long-term returns. While it's crucial to invest within one's comfort zone, working with a financial advisor can help women explore a broader range of investment options, balance their risk, and potentially enhance their retirement savings.

Lower Earnings and Savings

The gender wage gap is a pervasive issue, leading women to earn less than men on average. This disparity is compounded by career interruptions often faced by women, such as taking time off for child-rearing or elder care. Consequently, women generally save less for retirement than men. Financial advisors can assist women in implementing strategic financial plans to optimize their savings and investments, helping them to make the most of their income and plan for a secure retirement.

Disproportionate Impact of Divorce

Divorce can have a significant financial impact, often affecting women more than men. Suddenly, single-income households may face the daunting task of stretching finances to cover costs previously managed by dual incomes. A knowledgeable financial advisor can provide guidance on navigating the financial complexities of divorce, including division of assets, potential tax implications, and retirement plan adjustments.

The Good News

While women face unique financial challenges, these hurdles can be surmounted with proactive planning and the right guidance. By partnering with a financial advisor who understands their unique needs and challenges, women can take control of their financial future, ensuring they're well-prepared for retirement, regardless of what life throws their way.

Financial independence is not just about survival – it's about thriving in every phase of life.

Other content you may like

  • Peak Yield Curve Inversion?

    September 26, 2023
    This month’s Student of the Market explores the peak yield curve inversion and what happens in the gap between short-term and long-term interest rates, along with looking at the real yield impact of inflation. You’ve probably noticed that upcoming elections are ramping up quickly. Here’s a peak at historical stock returns in election years and what might be on the horizon.
    Read this Article
  • Boosting Employees' Savings and Keeping Talent

    January 18, 2025
    Employers with company-sponsored retirement plans, like a 401(k) or 403(b) have a tool that can be used to help retain top talent, alleviate employee concerns regarding financial stability in retirement, and help build a positive work environment.
    Read this Article
  • Oct SOM

    Peak Inflation and Performance

    October 26, 2023
    This month’s market overview takes a closer look at cash options and bond performance. Find out where there’s good news in performance since the low in interest rates. And check out the stats coming in that have been tracking stock volatility this year along with a glimpse of what the 4th quarter may hold.
    Read this Article
  • With Russia at War, is it Time to Invest in Gold?

    With Russia at War, is it Time to Invest in Gold?

    March 8, 2022
    Putting money in precious metals is not like investing in the stock market. Precious metals may be a good hedge for investors facing the myriad of problems with the current global economic environment, especially raging inflation. It might work as a short-term investment but gold doesn’t pay dividends. And it doesn’t pay interest. So what is gold good for?
    Read this Article
  • The link you have selected is located on another server. The linked site contains information that has been created, published, maintained, or otherwise posted by institutions or organizations independent of this organization. We do not endorse, approve, certify, or control any linked websites, their sponsors, or any of their policies, activities, products, or services. We do not assume responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information contained therein. Visitors to any linked websites should not use or rely on the information contained therein until they have consulted with an independent financial professional. Please click “Continue to Link” to leave this website and proceed to the selected site.
    phone-handset