Patience, the feminine virtue of investing : A mixed-methods approach to studying gender-based investment behaviours and the investment gap.

Abstract: Background – This study discusses gender-based differences in investment behaviour and its economic consequences. Despite significant advancements in gender equality, inequalities such as the gender wealth gap exist. This paper explores the difference in investment behaviour and factors that influence said behaviour. These behavioural factors include risk, overconfidence, financial literacy, as well as hindrances based on bias and stereotypes. Financial advisory as a tool can aid in bridging the gap between men and women when it comes to risk assessment, confidence levels, and hindrances. This paper argues that patience, a traditionally feminine virtue, is a key factor in rational investing and encourages breaking gender-based stereotypes within finance to bridge the gender-based investment gap.   Purpose – This paper aims to investigate gender-based differences in investment behaviour to explain the investment gap. By combining several sources, this paper seeks to understand the foundations of investment behaviour and identify tactics to address wealth disparity. The research gap the report aims to address is the lack of a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted issue of investment behaviour. Overall, the paper seeks to identify gender-based investment differences and investigate the factors behind the cycle of wealth inequality.   Method – A mixed-methods approach is used, which includes two sources of quantitative data. These consist of a survey and secondary data, where the survey is founded on semi-structural interviews. For the survey, a convenience sample is used, and descriptive statistics, t-tests, and univariate ANOVA make up data analysis.   Conclusion – This thesis highlights the casual acceptance of investment behaviour between genders and the adverse effects of the existing disparities in investments. The statistical tests, interviews, and secondary data show that women tend to view investments differently than men, start long-term investments earlier, and exhibit patience in their investment style. However, women lack confidence and willingness to try, which can be overcome with tools such as education and financial advisory.