Women & Wealth: How to Overcome Confidence Gaps and Start Investing

Here’s something surprising: Women often outperform men in investing—with returns up to 1% higher. But here’s the catch—only 28% feel confident enough to act on it. So what’s holding them back—and how can we flip the script?



Hi, I’m Claire Hollander, Wealth Advisor at Liberty Group, a California-based wealth management firm focusing on estate law, taxes, and retirement planning. In this video, we’ll talk about shattering the confidence ceiling and unlocking your full financial potential.

It’s no secret that many women hesitate when it comes to investing and long-term financial planning—whether it’s worrying about making the wrong investment choices, feeling unsure about risk, or simply not knowing where to start. In my experience as an advisor, I often work with women who are a bit uncertain over their retirement plans. But here’s the kicker—women actually excel at both saving and investing. It’s like having a financial superpower but not knowing how to use it!

Here’s a statistic for you: Studies show that women’s investment returns often exceed men’s by 0.4% to 1%.
To put that in perspective: A $1 million investment growing at 7.4% instead of 7% over 25 years = $530,657 more in returns!

Women tend to take a calculated, long-term approach to investing, avoiding high-risk speculative trends like crypto and meme stocks. Research shows that this disciplined strategy leads to consistent and sustainable growth. Studies show women achieve higher returns while taking less risk.

Key Traits That Make Women Better Investors:
✔️ Higher savings rates – up to 0.4% more than men
✔️ Long-term, more patient investment strategies
✔️ Less emotional decision-making in market downturns – with studies showing they are 8% more likely to stay the course during uncertain times compared to men
✔️ More risk-conscious without being risk-averse

So, What’s Holding Women Back?

The truth is, there’s no single reason. But here are a few common barriers I see time and again:

Lack of Confidence – Many women second-guess their financial decisions, even when they’re fully capable.

Limited Financial Education – Few of us were taught about investing or retirement planning in school—or at home.

Fear of Risk – Women are often more risk-conscious, which can lead to hesitation or overly conservative strategies.

Time Constraints – Between work, caregiving, and life, there’s little time left to focus on your own financial goals.

Career & Pay Gaps – Women are still paid less than men on average, and many take time off for caregiving, which can mean fewer raises, missed 401(k) contributions, and slower wealth growth over time.

Cultural Messaging – For too long, money conversations were considered “not for us.” That ends now.

But here’s the empowering part: You don’t need to have all the answers right away. With the right tools, support, and mindset, you can build real financial confidence—and take control of your wealth. Let’s talk about what that looks like.

It’s time to flip the script—and take action. Confidence isn’t something you either have or don’t have. It’s built, step by step, through knowledge, habits, and the right support. If you’re ready to take control, here are five practical steps you can start today to build financial confidence and grow lasting wealth:

1️. Learn on Your Terms: Set a goal to learn one new financial concept per week. Start with books like *Smart Women Finish Rich or listen to podcasts like HerMoney or The Clever Girls Know. Follow finance accounts on Instagram or YouTube—whatever format keeps you engaged.

2️. Take Small Investment Steps Now: Open a brokerage or retirement account if you haven’t already. Start with auto-investing just $100 a month in a diversified index fund or ETF. Many platforms like Fidelity, Schwab, and Vanguard make it simple and low-cost.

3️. Know Your Numbers: Track your net worth, income, expenses, and savings rate. Use a spreadsheet or a tool like Mint, Monarch, or Empower. Confidence starts with clarity.

4️. Make Financial Conversations Normal: Commit to one meaningful financial conversation this month—whether it’s asking your HR team about 401(k) options, discussing shared finances with your partner, or scheduling a check-in with a financial advisor.

5️. Create a “Wealth Check-In” Ritual: Block 30 minutes on your calendar once a month to review your goals, track progress, and adjust as needed. Make it enjoyable—light a candle, pour a coffee, and treat it like self-care for your future.

Here’s a bonus step: Build Your Dream Team
You don’t have to go it alone. A trusted advisor can help you create a personalized plan and avoid costly mistakes. If you’d like to connect, there’s a link in the description—we’d love to help you take the next step.

Breaking the confidence ceiling starts today. Let’s build a future where every woman feels confident and in control of her financial destiny. Want to keep learning? My book, A Clear Path Forward, is packed with practical strategies to grow your wealth and confidence. Grab your copy here.