At Akamai Advisors, we’ve always believed in empowering women to be confident, informed decision-makers when it comes to their finances. And the numbers show we’re in the midst of a powerful shift: nearly half of all women (49%) now consider themselves the chief financial officers of their households—up from 41% just a few years ago (Allianz Life).
That’s a far cry from not so long ago—1974, to be exact—when a woman often needed her husband’s permission to open a bank account or apply for a mortgage (Bankrate). We’ve come a long way, but there’s still work to do.
Navigating Today’s Landscape
Despite the progress, only 64% of women say they feel financially secure, down from 72% in 2021 (Allianz Life). This gap highlights why continued support, education, and advocacy are essential.
By 2030, women are projected to control $34 trillion in U.S. assets—nearly double from last year, and up from $7.3 trillion a decade ago (Financial Advisor Magazine). Much of this shift comes from inheritance, divorce, career advancement, and the generational transfer of wealth.
There are now at least 62 female billionaires, and women with $30 million or more in net worth represent 11% of the ultra-high-net-worth population, up from 6.5% in 2010 (Robb Report).
Women Often Approach Money Differently
While every client is unique, our experience reflects broader patterns in how women tend to approach financial planning.
- Financial Confidence: While 75% of women feel confident managing day-to-day finances, only 19% feel confident selecting investments that align with long-term goals. That’s compared to 52% of men who say they’re confident about retirement savings, versus 42% of women (U.S. News & World Report).
- Investment Discipline & Patience: Women are often more conservative investors and trade 27% less frequently than men. This patience can lead to more consistent long-term outcomes (U.S. News & World Report).
- Managing Market Volatility: In periods of market uncertainty, 51% of women say they would stay the course, while only 6% would reduce investments. This compares to 43% and 9% of men, respectively (U.S. News & World Report).
- Philanthropy: Regardless of income level, women are more likely to give generously to causes that align with their values (Robb Report).
- Open to Guidance: Women are also more collaborative. 86% say working with a financial professional makes life less stressful, and 77% believe it increases their confidence (U.S. News & World Report).
Communication is Key for Couples
Money can be one of the biggest sources of tension in relationships. Nearly one in four couples say finances are their greatest challenge, and 45% argue about money at least occasionally (Fidelity Investments).
More than a quarter of couples say they avoid bringing up their frustrations to keep the peace. And nearly half disagree on risk tolerance and retirement goals (Fidelity Investments).
At Akamai Advisors, we work to foster collaboration—ensuring that both partners are heard and engaged in shaping their financial future.
Overcoming Challenges, Seizing Opportunities
Despite progress, women still face unique financial challenges: the gender pay gap, career interruptions for caregiving, and longer life expectancies (on average, five years longer than men) (CNBC).
At the same time, women are poised to benefit from the $68 trillion “great wealth transfer” taking place as Baby Boomers pass wealth to spouses and children—often to women (CNBC).
The Importance of Building Independent Credit
One overlooked key to financial empowerment is having credit in your own name. Being an authorized user on a spouse’s credit card isn’t the same as building a personal credit history. Having your own accounts—and managing them responsibly—can make a big difference when it comes to accessing loans, housing, or navigating life transitions like divorce or widowhood.
Building strong, independent credit supports long-term financial resilience and autonomy.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
As gender roles and family dynamics evolve, financial empowerment for women is no longer just a trend—it’s a transformation. Whether you're leading your family's financial decisions or taking a more collaborative role, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Akamai Advisors are more than financial planners—we're partners in your journey toward financial empowerment.
Together, we can build a strategy that reflects your values, supports your goals, and strengthens your family’s future.