High Costs of Financial Advice Hinder Women's Investment Confidence

1

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

The findings underscore another concern: women remain more wary of investment fees, with 61 per cent expressing concern compared to 55 per cent of men. According to Lauren Jackson from Fidelity International, these financial apprehensions are compounded by broader economic pressures, as a significant number of women are already reducing non-essential expenditures to cope with the rising cost of living.

The research indicates that even though women are less proactive in seeking advice, they recognize the importance of financial management. However, despite this awareness, women exhibit lower confidence in achieving long-term financial goals and managing day-to-day finances compared to their male counterparts. Only 13 per cent of women feel confident about meeting financial objectives, versus 22 per cent of men.

Diving deeper, the study notes a confidence gap in evaluating investment opportunities. Just 48 per cent of women feel assured in assessing investments, while 72 per cent of men display such confidence. Additionally, the disparity extends to investment actions, as 24 per cent of women have never invested compared to 10 per cent of men. Women are also less inclined to invest in shares, bonds, or pursue diversification.

Significantly, women prioritize seeking trustworthy financial advice, with 43 per cent expressing concerns over finding reliable consultants. Moreover, they desire advisors who can communicate at an understandable level, with 25 per cent highlighting this need in comparison to 19 per cent of men.

Interestingly, women diverge in their sources of financial guidance. They are more likely to turn to financial news sites (34 per cent) and personal acquaintances (33 per cent) for advice, rather than social media "finfluencers." In contrast, men show a higher inclination towards investment apps.

Promisingly, younger generations, particularly Gen Z, exhibit a growing interest in financial guidance. Half find the prospect of financial advice appealing, suggesting a potential cultural shift that could encourage more women to seek advice, thus bolstering their investment confidence.

Published:Monday, 10th Mar 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Finance News

Clear

EU's Strategic Investment in Australian Critical Minerals

27 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

The European Union (EU) is set to make direct investments in Australian critical minerals projects, aiming to secure essential resources vital for industries such as artificial intelligence (AI) and defence. This strategic move follows discussions between EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic and Australian Resources Minister Madeleine King, highlighting the EU's commitment to diversifying its supply chains and reducing reliance on unstable external sources. - read more

Strengthening Pacific Ties: The Nakamal Agreement

27 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant move to bolster regional partnerships, Australia and Vanuatu have signed the Nakamal Agreement, a $325 million bilateral treaty aimed at enhancing economic, security, and cultural cooperation. Named after Vanuatu's traditional communal meeting place, the 'nakamal,' this agreement underscores the deepening ties between the two nations. - read more

South Australia's Marine Ecosystem Under Threat

27 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

Since March 2025, South Australia has been grappling with a harmful algal bloom (HAB) that has significantly impacted marine life, local industries, and public health. The bloom has affected vast coastal areas, leading to mass fish kills and posing challenges for the fishing and aquaculture sectors, as well as tourism and beachgoers. - read more

ASIC Advocates for Stronger Oversight in Private Lending

27 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently highlighted the necessity for enhanced regulatory measures within the nation's private lending sector. This call to action stems from findings that reveal inconsistencies and potential risks that could adversely affect both investors and borrowers. - read more

Australian SMEs Increasingly Opt for Non-Bank Lenders

27 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent data indicates a significant shift in the financing preferences of Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with a growing number opting for non-bank lenders over traditional banking institutions. This trend underscores the evolving needs and challenges faced by SMEs in the current economic climate. - read more

Click for more Finance News