How women are redefining their financial success

While investing is traditionally focused on accumulating wealth, women often have unique challenges and goals that may cause them to invest more strategically, with clear, purpose-driven goals for their money. Whether for retirement, family needs or giving back to causes they care about, women often invest with their values and their futures in mind.

Women aren’t just entering the financial conversation—they’re bringing a long-term, strategic mindset that reflects their values and life goals. Let’s take a closer look at the financial challenges women may face, how women can invest with confidence, and why having the right financial guidance matters.

Women’s goals and challenges

Today’s women investors are as diverse as the goals they pursue—whether it’s navigating a job transition, managing health-related expenses, supporting extended family or starting a business. They’re professionals, entrepreneurs, caregivers and retirees. Many are balancing careers, running households and taking the lead when it comes to long-term financial planning for their families.

But despite making significant strides, women investors still face unique challenges:

• The gender pay gap: On average, women earn less than men over the course of their careers, which can translate into less savings and lower investment balances.³
• Career interruptions: Many women take time away from the workforce to care for children or aging family members, which can affect their earnings and retirement savings.
• Longer life expectancy: Women typically live longer than men, so they need their retirement savings to last longer, too.⁴
• Unrecognized needs: Even as women grow their presence in investing, many say they don't feel truly heard or understood by financial professionals.⁵

These challenges highlight why it’s important for women to have tailored financial strategies—and trusted guidance along the way. Here are some steps to help you take the next step with confidence.

Investing with confidence: A step-by-step approach

• Define your goals: Think about what matters most—whether it’s retirement, savings, caregiving or charitable giving—and create an investment plan to match.
• Assess your financial situation: Review your income, savings, investments and expenses. Knowing where you stand today can help shape realistic goals.
• Plan for the unexpected: Consider adding protections such as life or disability insurance to help safeguard your long-term financial goals.
• Understand your options: Learn about the different investment accounts and strategies available to you. A financial professional can explain the pros and cons based on your timeline, risk tolerance and priorities.
• Find the right support: Partner with a financial professional who takes the time to listen, understands your goals, and can guide you through the investing journey.

Working with a professional

A qualified financial professional can recommend helpful strategies, simplify complex financial concepts and help you choose the right products for your needs. Not sure what questions to ask? Here are some conversation starters:

• How can I keep my plan on track if I take time off work or need to care for family?
• What can I do to help my finances stay steady through big life changes, like a divorce or losing a spouse?
• Can I make my money work for me while still keeping my values?

Investing for goals—rather than just for growth—can be a powerful strategy. It can give you a clear roadmap, helps you stay resilient during market ups and downs, and can help ensure your investments reflect your vision.  No matter where you are on your financial journey, taking the time to set goals and seek the right support can make a valuable difference.

Additional reading:

The value of financial professional

Empowering your retirement: Why women should consider annuities

Why women save less for retirement, and strategies that can help