Manka Sebastian, Junior Portfolio Manager, Sanlam Properties

Would you say that women have very different attitudes toward money than men?

Definitely. The difference lies in the intent. For women it goes beyond maximising returns. In my experience, women’s attitudes towards money are that of creating generational security. As we have grown into ‘owning our space’ in the world of investments, the one question I often get asked is, “How should I be investing my money now so that I am able to provide for my family and set them up for their next stage in life?”

In a future world where women are confidently investing and growing wealth, what would the knock-on effect be on the rest of their lives, careers and society at large?

The knock-on effect I see is the maximisation of resilient financial and social returns. How many stories have you heard of mothers, aunts and sisters feeding families with the modern version of two fish and five loaves? If you want a rand to go further, give it to a woman! As our intellect and voices grow confidently louder in the investment world, we will direct investment conversations and careers towards ideas that are resilient and impactful.

What are easy, non-intimidating ways for women to move into the investment space?

Start with your three closest friends. The same way we have book and wine clubs, parent forums, etc., we should also have investment clubs. Invite a qualified Chartered Financial Planner (CFP) to kick you off. Agree that once every month each one of you will bring one company, unit trust or ETF to the club that would be a great investment. With investment platforms such as EasyEquities, EasyProperties and Satrix, investing has become so easy and much less intimidating. It is the equivalent of the modern day stokvel.

How can women become investment champions for others?

Purposefully and intentionally look for investment vehicles that are led by women and managed by women. In your circles, encourage each other to explore financial options such as EasyEquities and Satrix.

Wandile Mhlanga, Team Leader: SCI Service Team, Sanlam Collective Investments

Would you say that women have very different attitudes toward money than men?

Women are nurturers by nature and, as such, their attitudes towards money often revolve around providing security and comfort for themselves and loved ones. This also results in women being more mindful of their money-spending habits. There is a quote by Erik S Gray which states that “Whatever you give a woman, she will make it greater. If you give her a house, she'll give you a home. If you give her groceries, she'll give you a meal. If you give her a smile, she'll give you her heart. She multiplies and enlarges what is given to her”.

What are easy, non-intimidating ways for women to move into the investment space?

Women need to “Lean In”. This title comes from a book by Sheryl Sandberg where she speaks about the different ways women can easily occupy spaces in the world. The book emphasises being more confident and knowing what you want. As women, we need to know our worth and once we know it, it will feel less intimidating to move into the investment space. Women need to read more about investing and understanding the industry and what it entails. We need to look for opportunities to boost our confidence and find support structures to encourage us to go for it.

How can women become investment champions for others?

We need to support each other and uplift each other. Women who speak less in group discussions are seen as having less influence. Women should set an example by making sure that our ideas are heard. In the boardroom, instead of sitting at the end of the table and edge of the room – away from positions that convey status – rather sit front-and-centre and be at the heart of the discussions. We also need to encourage each other to aim high and take risks. As women, we need to celebrate each other and give each other direct feedback which will be helpful and can help us learn and grow.