Charles Schwab’s 2025 Women Investors Survey offers an in-depth look at how women are approaching investing today and reveals a balance of patience and risk-taking, growing confidence, and a willingness to explore diverse investment opportunities. The study, conducted by Logica Research, was covered in various press outlets including CNBC, Financial Advisor, Motley Fool, and more.

From generational differences in starting age to unique investing styles, the findings show how women are shaping the future of investing. You can read the full report here.

Widespread regret over delayed investing

CNBC reports that while 90% of women investors feel they’re on track to meet their financial goals, 85% wish they had started earlier. On average, women begin investing at age 31, with Millennials starting sooner than Gen X and Boomers. Top reasons from the study for delaying include limited funds and lack of financial knowledge, highlighting opportunities for earlier access to education and tools.

Millennial women redefining the investor profile

Financial Advisor highlights how the Schwab survey shows that Millennial women entered the investment market almost a decade earlier than Boomers did, with broader and more complex portfolios that often include crypto, stock options, and alternative investments. This group is not only confident and engaged but also eager to learn, asking deeper questions and prioritizing both returns and understanding. Advisors are encouraged to meet them with education, community, and tailored strategies.

Women’s distinct investment style offers long-term advantages

Motley Fool examines how the study revealed that women’s investing style differs from men’s and how women favor patience, discipline, and thoughtful risk analysis over impulsive decisions. Many women prefer a hybrid approach, blending their own research with professional guidance, and actively share financial knowledge within their communities. This approach supports long-term goals while encouraging a broader culture of financial literacy.

The Schwab’s 2025 Women Investors Survey also looked at the practical hurdles women have faced on their investing journeys. Many cited challenges such as lower pay, career pauses to care for others, and fewer job opportunities as factors that have impacted their ability to invest. Even with these headwinds, the majority feel optimistic about reaching their goals—pointing to increased accessibility, a broader range of investment options, and more widely available financial education as key drivers of their confidence.

About the survey

The 2025 Women Investors Survey was conducted by Logica Research from January 7, 2025, to January 23, 2025, among a national sample of 1,200 women investors in the United States, aged 21+, with at least $5,000 in investable assets and who are primary or joint financial decisionmakers in their households. The survey explored investing behaviors, attitudes toward risk, confidence levels, and the role of education, community, and professional guidance in women’s investing journeys. You can access the results of the study here.