From an early age, many girls learn that being “good with money” means not wasting it, setting it aside, and being cautious. Boys, on the other hand, are often taught to see risk as an opportunity, a sign of growth and a way to make money work for them. This is not a written rule, but a subtle message conveyed through families, media, schools and advertising, which over time leaves a lasting mark.
A gap rooted in work and income
Only 45% of women invest, compared to a much higher percentage among men, which reaches 65% (MdR survey). These different approaches lead to an economic and social gap.
In Italy there is still an 11% hourly gender pay gap in the private sector (2021 data) and a female employment rate that is lower than the male one. This means less disposable income, more fragmented careers and, consequently, fewer opportunities to allocate part of earnings to long-term investments.
The gap is also reflected in the future: in 2024 the average pension received by women was 35% lower than that of men (€1,594 compared to €2,146 per month, INPS data).
Saving is essential, but without investments that protect against inflation and enhance capital, the risk is reaching adulthood and old age with lower financial security.
Why does this happen?
According to the Bank of Italy, the reasons are many: fewer women than men are employed, women earn less, are affected by stereotypes, approach financial topics with greater anxiety and often do not feel confident enough in their financial knowledge, even when their skills are above average.
This perception does not reflect a real lack of competence. It stems from limited exposure to messages about the benefits of investing or from an educational approach that emphasizes financial caution, often reinforcing cultural stereotypes.
When women invest, results are often better
Contrary to a common belief, Repubblica reports that when women invest, they often do so in a disciplined way and achieve solid results. In Europe, investments made by women in 2024 outperformed those made by men by 4%, achieving an average performance that was 2.6% higher.
Stereotypes, education and family models
According to Director Giovanna Paladino, several cultural factors lie at the root of the gap:
- gender stereotypes, such as the idea that women are “not good with numbers” or are more emotional in economic decisions;
- family education, where complex financial issues are more often discussed with sons than with daughters, and allowances are more common for boys than for girls;
- the burden of caregiving, as time devoted to family and domestic work reduces the mental and emotional space needed to develop financial skills;
- the digital divide: in Italy only 28% of women have basic digital skills compared to 45% of men, and worldwide women are 18% less likely to have access to smartphones and the internet.
All of this reinforces the idea that a woman’s role is to “protect” money, not to make it grow.
Why investing is also a matter of freedom
Saving without investing may seem like a prudent choice, but in the long run it can lead to less autonomy. Inflation erodes purchasing power, while diversified and informed investments help build future security.
The investment gap also contributes to greater vulnerability, including a higher risk of economic abuse. According to a 2023 survey by We World, 49% of the women interviewed said they had experienced economic violence at least once in their lives, a figure that rises to 67% among divorced or separated women.
From theory to practice: how to overcome the stereotype
- Talk about investments from a young age
Do not wait until graduation or the first paycheck: introducing basic investment concepts already during adolescence helps build confidence.
- Learn to manage fear of risk
Studying and engaging with real data helps to understand that managed risk does not mean gambling, but a conscious choice.
- Get informed
Read books, follow creators, podcasts, and financial communities that talk about investing in a clear and inclusive way: having all the information allows you to make responsible choices.
Gender inequality in investing stems from a mix of cultural messages, social expectations and perceptions of risk that can be challenged and dismantled.
Investing is not a privilege or a skill “reserved” for a few: it is a tool that, if understood and used consciously, can and should be part of everyone’s financial life.
To further explore these topics, improve your financial skills and discover practical tools, take part in our events, workshops and educational paths designed to support youngsters, families, adults and schools in building solid foundations for the future. Follow our blog and visit www.museodelrisparmio.it.
22 January 2026