Gender Can Make a Difference in Attitudes about Investing

As a group, women display certain characteristics that help them make sound decisions about their finances. They tend to be holistic thinkers, aware of all aspects of an issue and equally aware of the importance of balance. Women tend to be intuitive - they’re discerning and perceptive in their view of the world. And women tend to be more concerned with quality rather than quantity, which can translate into better decision making in the complex world of investing.

As more and more women take control of their financial futures, a growing number of polls and academic studies have arisen to track women's attitudes and behavior in regard to investing. In some ways, it appears, gender appears to make little difference; increasing personal net worth is very important to both men and women, for instance. In one poll, 86 percent of men and 87 percent of women said that achieving and maintaining a comfortable lifestyle is very important when making investment decisions. Studies reveal differences in attitudes between male and female investors, too. Women, for example, rate themselves as less knowledgeable than male investors and tend to have less risky portfolios than their male counterparts. Women also report less interest in investing – but only because they have so many other things to do.

Women investors make fewer mistakes than male investors do – and they make them less often. More likely to learn from their investment mistakes than men, women are not afraid to ask for help with what they don’t know. Studies show that women are less motivated by fear and greed than men, and they’re more able to “stay the course” concerning their investment objectives; women are less likely to hold on to losing investments than are men.

Compared to male investors, female investors are more likely to rely on a quality financial advisor. When it comes to investment advice, it seems, women want a relationship. They desire connection and a sense of rapport. Because women are particularly attuned to issues of trust and loyalty, they place high value on their relationship with the person who advises them about their finances.

That’s where I come in. I’ve found that it’s extremely important for my clients to share with me their goals and dreams for the future. I encourage you to give me a call so we can set up time to discuss how to make the most of your unique investment strategy. I can help ensure your strategy is compatible with your attitudes and philosophies.