The ageing population is accelerating: nearly 40% of Europeans and 37% of Americans are now over the age of 50. This is significantly reshaping the financial landscape, particularly as women gain increasing influence over substantial wealth. In Europe, women now manage 38% of invested assets, up from 32% five years ago. This is expected to rise to nearly half by 2030.
Globally, the number of female billionaires is also growing, although they still hold just 12% of total billionaire wealth. In the Netherlands, women are more likely to manage their finances independently (56%), and 92% say they have a good understanding of their financial situation. Yet, according to the World Economic Forum, women retire with nearly one-third less wealth than men.
"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Autonomy and knowledge"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"The desire for financial independence is strong: 93% of women consider it important to be able to support themselves without relying on others, and 97% want to make their own financial decisions. This is evident from our research on Women’s Financial Independence (only in Dutch). However, only 55% feel confident in their financial knowledge. Our research highlights the importance of education, accessible information, and personalised advice—especially during key life events such as moving house, divorce, or the loss of a partner.
Jolanda Penninx, Director of Private Banking & Wealth Management, has found that women who suddenly come into wealth—whether through inheritance or the sale of a business—tend to be well-informed. “They do their homework thoroughly, especially when it comes to family wealth, where they feel a strong sense of responsibility.” According to Penninx, even more important than knowledge is trust: “When women switch banks or advisors after a bereavement, it’s often because that trust was lacking.”
"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Investors with impact"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"Research shows that once women become wealthy, they tend to invest differently than men. They are more likely to take a long-term view, trade less frequently, and prioritise stability and wealth preservation. Women also show above-average interest in sustainable and impact investing—such as ESG investments or funding female entrepreneurs (source: Investment Officer). This aligns with a desire not only to generate financial returns, but also to make a positive societal impact.
"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Encouraging entrepreneurship"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"An increasing number of women are building wealth through entrepreneurship. Yet research shows that female entrepreneurs still face greater challenges in accessing growth capital. Initiatives like the Borski Fund—of which ING is a founding partner—specifically invest in female-led scale-ups to help close this gap. This contributes to greater diversity and innovation in the business world, as well as to wealth creation among women.
Networking events tailored to women are often seen as valuable opportunities to ask questions and share experiences. Penninx emphasises that these gatherings can be highly meaningful, even if there’s sometimes hesitation or concern that a women’s network might feel like a “tea party.” “In smaller settings, I’ve had very positive experiences—for example, with Deloitte’s ‘Women on Boards’. You notice that when women switch banks or advisors, it’s often based on recommendations from other women. That builds more trust than an advertisement ever could.”
"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"The future: from trend to new standard"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"The rise of wealthy women is not a passing trend, but a structural shift. Banks around the world are adapting their services, placing greater emphasis on personal connection, clear communication, and tailored solutions. Penninx sees a learning opportunity for the financial sector: “In conversations, attention often shifts to the man—especially if he’s more outspoken. The woman’s role is underestimated, even though she may be the one making the decisions behind the scenes.”
Wealthy women now have more opportunities than ever to use their financial position to pursue their own goals—and to contribute to society. By investing in knowledge, leveraging networks, and choosing sustainable and impactful investments, they are making a difference—for themselves and for future generations. A thoughtful financial plan is essential, one that prioritises flexibility, knowledge transfer, and careful consideration of wealth succession.
"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Good to know"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"Investing involves risks and costs. You may lose your deposit or part of it. Read more about the risks of investing and how to manage them. Visit ing.nl/ESG to learn how ING incorporates sustainability.
"}},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"Also read:
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