More than half of UK women want greater confidence in planning for retirement, with research showing a gender divide in investment activity and highlighting a growing opportunity for advisers as women’s share of UK wealth rises, according to LV=.
According to LV=’s latest Wealth and Wellbeing report, more than half of women, 52 per cent, have never invested, compared to 34 per cent of men. Additionally, women over 55 are particularly cautious, with nearly half, 48 per cent, saying they would avoid investments that carry financial risk compared with 27 per cent of men.
LV= says advisers can help bridge this gap by offering solutions that better align with women’s attitudes to risk, such as lower-volatility smoothed funds. Research from LV=’s online Member Community also shows that many women value empathy, understanding and patience as key qualities in their adviser.
The findings come as women are set to hold 60 per cent of the UK’s wealth by the end of 2025, according to the Centre for Economics and Business Research. LV= says advisers who adapt their approach now will be best placed to build stronger, longer-lasting relationships.
LV= wealth proposition director Sarah Hills says: “We know advisers play an important role in guiding people on their wealth and retirement journeys, and here at LV= we want to do all we can to help support all of their clients.
“Our latest data shows women are reporting a confidence and knowledge gap, which advisers are well placed to bridge.
“Women often live longer, have different life experiences and financial expectations. To build trust and relevance, it’s important that advisers feel confident to go beyond product recommendations and engage in conversations around life goals, values and the motivations behind their client’s financial decisions.
“By actively listening, using inclusive language and avoiding assumptions about risk appetite or financial literacy, advisers can strengthen their relationships and deliver more personalised, effective advice.
“In today’s evolving landscape, creating tailored investment strategies that reflect individual needs is not just beneficial – it’s essential.”
