Breaking Barriers - Why Financial Literacy is Key to Women’s Empowerment

By Zihaad Israfil, CEO of CFI South Africa

“With it being International Women’s Month, it is a time to celebrate the achievements of women across industries while reflecting on the remaining barriers. One of the most powerful tools for driving gender equality is financial freedom, e.g., taking control of their financial futures through investing, trading, and wealth-building strategies.

“Of course, financial empowerment extends beyond economic stability. It acts as a catalyst for broader empowerment in business, leadership, and entrepreneurship. When women are confident to make informed financial decisions, they unlock opportunities to lead, innovate, and build generational wealth.

Breaking down barriers

“Despite advancements in gender equality, women remain underrepresented in investing and trading. A recent study shows that women are more likely to save but less likely to invest, often due to risk aversion and the perception that financial markets are male-dominated.

“Fortunately, more accessible financial platforms and tailored education programs are breaking down these barriers, making financial markets more accessible than ever. The key is to encourage more women to take that first step into financial independence—whether through traditional investments, trading, or entrepreneurial ventures.

“Financial confidence plays a crucial role in leadership and business success. Women who understand financial markets, cash flow management, and investment strategies are better positioned to take on leadership roles, whether in corporate boardrooms or as business owners. Strong financial acumen allows them to make informed decisions, negotiate better deals, and drive business growth with greater certainty.

“For entrepreneurs, financial independence creates freedom. Access to capital remains one of the biggest challenges for women-owned businesses, limiting their ability to scale and expand. Women who invest and trade can develop alternative revenue streams, ensuring their businesses grow without relying solely on external funding. This independence allows them to take calculated risks, invest in innovation, and expand their ventures on their own terms.

A long-term plan

“Yet, financial confidence is not just about immediate business success. Think about it as providing long-term stability. Women statistically live longer than men, making financial planning and wealth creation even more critical. A strong investment portfolio ensures financial security well into retirement, reducing dependence on external financial support and allowing women to maintain their lifestyles and aspirations in later years.

“Building financial confidence starts with education. Women must have access to financial literacy programs that simplify investing, risk management, and market trends, enabling them to make informed decisions. Financial institutions and brokers have a responsibility to create inclusive, user-friendly platforms that provide transparency, security, and ease of use. Mentorship and community support also play a vital role in encouraging women to participate in financial markets. When women engage with investor networks, peer groups, and role models who have successfully navigated the financial landscape, they gain confidence and insights that inspire action.

Making it real

“Practical experience is equally important. Learning through action—whether by using demo trading accounts, attending educational webinars, or participating in investment workshops—helps women gain the confidence they need to manage their own financial journeys.

“At CFI Financial, we believe financial confidence is the key to unlocking greater empowerment for women. Our mission is to provide inclusive, secure, and technology-driven trading solutions that enable women to participate in financial markets with confidence, knowledge, and ease. Through financial literacy programs, AI-powered trading tools, and a commitment to transparency, we are dedicated to making investing accessible to all, regardless of background or experience.”