Closing the gender gap in financial wellbeing

Closing the gender gap in financial wellbeing: A future where everyone thrives

Managing money can feel overwhelming at the best of times. But for many women, the emotional and physical toll of financial stress is more than just a challenge – it’s a constant weight on their shoulders. Our 2025 global financial wellbeing report: Navigating volatility shines a light on this persistent issue and shows us how deep the gender gap in financial literacy and wellbeing truly runs.
The report reveals something that many of us may have suspected: women are disproportionately affected by financial stress. Though many women consider their financial literacy to be “good,” the truth is that they often feel less confident in managing their finances, especially during times of change.

The emotional impact

When it comes to financial stress, women are bearing the brunt. Nearly twice as many women report feeling anxious (16% vs 9%), ashamed (12% vs 6%), or angry (12% vs 8%) about their financial situation. The emotional burden of not feeling in control of their finances can be overwhelming. A quarter of women rated their financial health as poor or very poor, compared to just 18% of men.
But it’s not just the mental toll; financial stress can manifest physically, too. More than 30% of women report sleep disruption, while others struggle with fatigue, migraines, and other symptoms that directly affect their wellbeing. It’s a heavy burden, and one that far too many women carry silently.

The debt dilemma

For many women, debt is a major source of stress. Over half (55%) of women say their debt negatively impacts their mental wellbeing. This stress doesn’t stay in the mind – it affects their bodies and their lives. And while many women feel they should have their finances in order, the pressure can feel isolating and overwhelming, creating a cycle that’s hard to break.

The confidence gap

When it comes to navigating financial changes – whether it’s adjusting to rising costs or planning for future uncertainties – women often lack the confidence that comes more easily to men. In the US one in four women (25%) say they don’t feel confident about managing shifts in things like food prices, healthcare, and housing affordability. That’s compared to just 15% of men.

This lack of confidence often stems from a gap in personalized education. While social media is the most common source of financial information for both men and women, men are more likely to seek out a broader range of resources, such as financial books, online courses, and periodicals. A concerning 13% of women have no sources of financial education at all, compared to just 8% of men. This disparity suggests that while women may have access to resources, they might not always feel they have the right support to navigate.

A call to action

The good news? There is a real opportunity here to make a difference, and it starts with us all stepping up to close the gender gap in financial wellbeing.

Jeff Miller, Vice President at nudge and a Certified Financial Instructor, highlights the importance of accessible financial education. He shares, “This data underscores the urgent need to close the gender gap in financial literacy. Women are disproportionately affected by financial stress, and while they don’t necessarily have less access to financial education, many perceive they do – which may be due to lower confidence in navigating complex financial language or resources. We must ensure that financial education is not only accessible but also approachable and inclusive.”

Employers, in particular, have a unique opportunity to step in. By offering accessible, personalized financial education that speaks to the real concerns and needs of employees, employers can make a profound difference. It’s not just about numbers on a paycheck – it’s about helping people feel mentally, emotionally, and physically supported. And the benefits of a happier, healthier workforce are far-reaching.

A better future is possible

The gender gap in financial wellbeing is real, but it’s not insurmountable. With empathy, care, and a commitment to education, we can help ensure that everyone – regardless of gender – has the knowledge and confidence they need to thrive financially.

Let’s work together to create a future where financial wellbeing isn’t a luxury but a reality for all, where women and men alike feel supported to manage their finances with confidence and a clear path forward.

Together, we can make a difference.

Access the full report.