WEALTH
Women ’ s financial power in a changing world
By Linda Sherlock , PPS Executive : Wealth and Business Development
Professional women in South Africa are navigating a complex financial world that goes far beyond career choices and professional aspirations . A recent study by PPS Wealth Advisory , in collaboration with Human8 , reveals key insights into the distinct financial planning needs of professional women , showcasing how their priorities and challenges differ significantly from their male counterparts . The findings offer a crucial lens into how the financial world is evolving for women and where opportunities for growth and empowerment lie .
UNIQUE FINANCIAL REALITIES
The research highlighted that professional women face specific financial challenges such as gender pay gaps , career interruptions due to caregiving responsibilities and a retirement savings gap . These factors , coupled with systemic occupational segregation – where women are overrepresented in lower-paying industries – compound the financial pressures on women . Additionally , the phenomenon of “ black tax ” or “ sandwich generation ” expenses places further strain on women who are supporting both their children and ageing parents .
One of the most striking aspects of the study is that while women tend to be more conservative investors , leading to lower returns , they are also living longer – about five years more than men on average , and even longer for professional women . This longevity intensifies the need for sound financial planning , yet women continue to prioritise their dependents over personal financial security .
Linda Sherlock
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Professional women in South Africa are navigating a complex financial world that goes far beyond career choices and professional aspirations .
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These trail-blazing professional women represent only 0.84 % of the South African population , yet they have a significant impact on their professions and the people who depend on them .
SHIFTING THE FOCUS : FINANCIAL AGENCY FOR WOMEN
Interestingly , 50 % of the women surveyed are primary decisionmakers in household finances , typically managing between 2.7 and
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