Women Are Building Wealth

Women play a vital role in driving economic growth and supporting households across South Africa. As more women take control of their financial futures, investing remains one of the most effective ways to build long-term wealth, financial resilience and independence.

While women are increasingly taking control of their financial futures, many remain underrepresented in investment markets. Women control a large portion of investable wealth in South Africa, yet remain underrepresented in investment markets and often hold a larger proportion of their wealth in cash rather than in growth assets.

Palesa Moletsane, Head of Stockbroking at FNB Wealth and Investments says, “women today are earning, leading businesses, building careers and making important financial decisions. However, wealth creation requires more than saving. Investing allows women to put their money to work and build financial resilience, independence and a legacy for future generations.”

Research consistently shows that women tend to take a more cautious approach to investing than men. While caution can be beneficial, being overly conservative may limit long-term wealth creation, particularly for women who often face unique financial realities such as longer life expectancy, career breaks, caregiving responsibilities and, in some cases, lower lifetime earnings.

“As a result, women often need their money to work harder for longer. Investing in shares and other growth assets have historically been one of the most effective ways to build wealth over time. While markets can be volatile in the short term, disciplined investors who remain focused on their goals are often rewarded over the long term,” adds Moletsane.

One of the biggest misconceptions about investing is that it is only for wealthy individuals or financial experts. Investing can begin with relatively small amounts and does not require extensive market knowledge.

Moletsane encourages women to start by asking themselves a simple question: What am I investing for?

Whether the goal is achieving financial independence, saving for retirement, funding a child’s education, purchasing property or another income-generating asset, building generational wealth, or creating a lasting legacy. Having a clearly defined goal helps determine the appropriate investment strategy and provides the motivation to stay committed through changing market conditions.

Many prospective investors spend years waiting for the “perfect” time to invest, which often derail prospective investors to start their investment journey.

“Trying to predict market movements is extremely difficult, even for experienced investors. A more effective approach is to invest consistently over time. Regular contributions allow you to benefit from the power of compounding, where returns generate additional returns. Small, disciplined contributions made consistently over many years can lead to meaningful long-term outcomes,” says Moletsane.

“Women’s financial needs evolve throughout their lives. During the early career years, the focus may be on building savings, paying off debt and developing investment confidence. As careers progress and families grow, attention often shifts to retirement planning, children’s education, risk protection and long-term wealth accumulation. Therefore, investing should not be viewed as a once-off event, but rather as a lifelong journey that evolves alongside your personal and financial goals,” adds Moletsane.

Beyond growing wealth, investing and financial planning can also be viewed as acts of self-care. Many women naturally prioritise the wellbeing of others before their own, often supporting children or ageing parents while managing multiple responsibilities. Yet their own long-term financial wellbeing can sometimes be overlooked.

“Planning for retirement, investing for growth, creating a will and protecting a family’s legacy are not selfish acts. They are acts of responsibility and care. Financial wellbeing provides greater choice, flexibility and resilience when faced with life’s uncertainties,” says Moletsane.

Women are increasingly recognising that investing is about more than financial returns. It is about creating opportunities, achieving independence and building something that can endure across generations.

“The tools, education and investment opportunities available to women today are more accessible than ever before. This is an opportunity for women to think bigger about their financial futures, take ownership of their wealth journey and start investing with purpose. By setting clear goals, understanding risk, diversifying investments and remaining consistent over time, women can create lasting wealth for themselves and future generations,” concludes Moletsane.