As Women's Wealth Grows, Financial Confidence Must Too

The Confidence Gap Is Real – But It's Not About Ability  

Recent research reveals a striking disparity in financial confidence between men and women. A January 2026 NerdWallet survey found that 65% of men believe they can handle income loss this year. In contrast, only 46% of women feel the same way.  

This gap isn't about capability, though. It's about confidence. Studies consistently show that when women do invest, they often outperform their male counterparts.  

Women’s Financial Power Is Growing  

  The statistics tell an encouraging story about women's growing financial power. Women control more than $10 trillion in U.S. household financial assets, expected to reach $34 trillion by 2030.1 More women are investing than ever before, with 71% now participating in the stock market.² 

Despite these gains, 82% of women want more financial information.³ Many feel less knowledgeable about long-term topics like building wealth and managing investments.  

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Understanding the Unique Challenges  

Women face distinct financial challenges that require thoughtful planning. The gender pay gap persists, with women earning approximately 85% of what men earn.⁴ 

Women are more likely to take breaks from work to care for others. They also live longer than men, averaging five years more, according to the Social Security Administration. Additionally, women often face higher healthcare costs in retirement. 

  These realities make comprehensive financial planning essential. The good news? Seeing these challenges is the first step to creating a financial plan with your advisor that tackles them directly.    

Five Steps to Build Financial Confidence in 2026  

1. Get Crystal Clear on Your Financial Picture
   You can't build confidence without understanding where you stand. Review your complete financial situation—income, expenses, debt, assets, and savings. Many women report feeling confident managing day-to-day finances like paying bills (88%) and maintaining good credit (75%), but struggle with long-term planning.3 Document everything, then identify gaps between where you are and where you want to be.   
2. Create Specific, Actionable Goals  
   More than two-thirds of women have clear financial goals, and those with specific objectives are more likely to achieve them.1 Whether it's building an emergency fund, saving for retirement, or investing for long-term wealth, write down your goals and break them into manageable milestones. A roadmap transforms abstract financial anxiety into concrete action steps.    
3. Start Investing—Even If You Start Small  
   One of the biggest barriers to wealth building is waiting to invest until you feel "ready." The truth is, time in the market matters more than timing the market. If your employer offers a 401(k) match, contribute at least enough to capture it. For 2026, you can contribute up to $24,500 to your 401(k) (plus $8,000 catch-up if you're 50 or older). Automate your investments so you're consistently building wealth without having to think about it.   
4. Educate Yourself, But Don't Go It Alone 
   Half of women work with financial advisors, compared to just 37% of men.5 That's actually a strength, not a weakness. Seeking expert guidance is a smart strategy for success, and WHZ strategic wealth advisors have the tools to assist you. A qualified financial advisor can help you make tough decisions. They can create a detailed financial plan just for you, and also help you optimize your asset allocation.  
5. Focus on Long-Term Strategy, Not Short-Term Noise  
   Women tend to be more deliberate investors, taking on appropriate risk, maintaining diversified portfolios, and taking a disciplined approach. Resist the temptation to make quick decisions based on market volatility. Instead, focus on your strategic plan and make adjustments based on your evolving life circumstances, not market headlines.   

Taking The First Step  

Building financial confidence isn't about becoming a financial expert overnight. It's about taking consistent, strategic steps that align with your goals and values. Women who gain more financial freedom do not always earn the most money. They are the ones who take control, ask for help when needed, and stay focused on their long-term goals.  

At WHZ Strategic Wealth Advisors, our comprehensive approach addresses the specific challenges and opportunities women face. We take time to understand your personal goals, family situation, career trajectory, and values. Our team works together to give you different viewpoints. This includes investment management, tax planning, and legacy issues.  

Whether you're navigating career advancement, managing complex compensation packages, planning for retirement, or preparing for generational wealth transfer, we're here to provide the guidance and support you need. Our goal is to provide you with “Absolute Confidence. Unwavering Partnership. For Life.” Schedule a complimentary discovery session online at whzwealth.com, or give us a call at (860) 928-2341. 

Authored by WHZ Wealth Advisor Holly Wanegar. AI may have been used in the research and initial drafting of this piece. These materials are general in nature and do not address your specific situation. For your specific investment needs, please discuss your individual circumstances with your financial advisor. WHZ Strategic Wealth Advisors does not provide tax or legal advice, and nothing in the accompanying pages should be construed as specific tax or legal advice. Securities and advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser. 697 Pomfret Street, Pomfret Center, CT 06259 and 392-A Merrow Road, Tolland, CT 06084, 860.928.2341. http://www.whzwealth.com. 

SOURCES: 

1. Empower Financial Happiness study and McKinsey & Company research (May 2025) 
2. Fidelity (as reported in The Motley Fool, March 2025) 
3. New York Life Wealth Watch survey (2024) 4 Pew Research Center 5 Wells Fargo 2021 study (reported in The Motley Fool)