Women have been sharing their investment styles, knowledge, and requirements in a new study that also highlights the importance of financial advice – from professionals and others.
With 91% of respondents saying that managing their own investments made them feel empowered and 83% saying they enjoy investing, the Schwab survey found that 62% of the women who took part said they consider themselves to be ‘investors’ and 26% say they are ‘traders.’
Taking control of the process is important with 42% of respondents preferring a hybrid approach of doing some of their own research while also working with a professional advisor. Financial information is more usually sought from financial professionals (61%) although the internet (41%), family (39%), and website of brokerage or investment firms (35%) are also key resources. Social media is used by 28% for financial information.
Lack of financial knowledge and lack of funds were the biggest challenges when respondents started investing and 85% said they wish they had started sooner with lack of spare earnings the main reason for not doing so.
“Women are confident and comfortable in the drivers’ seat when it comes to their investments and broader finances, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they are going it alone,” said Jeannie Bidner, head of Schwab’s Branch Network. “They also value guidance from financial professionals and tap their own community to collaborate with others, including family and friends. For the women we surveyed, do it yourself doesn’t mean do it in isolation.”
Asked about their top investing strengths, respondents said:
Growing their money (70%), saving for retirement (59%), and to become financially independent (40%) are the top three reasons why respondents said they started investing with stocks overwhelmingly favored (84%) compared to mutual funds (58%) and bonds (53%) which complete the top three. ETFs (29%) are below real estate (50%) and cryptos (32%) but above options and futures (20%) and alts (18%).
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