We brought together a powerhouse panel to explore one of the most persistent financial injustices of our time: the gender money gap. From motherhood penalties and financial anxiety to investment myths and the weight of the mental load, our panellists didn’t hold back.
Here are 5 things we learnt:
1. 💸 The gender pay gap is only part of the story
Yes, women still earn less than men. But the real wealth divide goes deeper, from pension savings to non-mortgage debt, women are consistently left behind. Octopus Money data shows women have half the investments and twice the debt of men. Add divorce or time out for caring responsibilities into the mix, and the gap only widens.
“Data shows women need to work 19 years longer to get the same pension outcomes as men.” – Chrissie Lewis
2. 🧠 Mental load is a financial issue
We often talk about confidence or education when it comes to women’s financial decision-making, but as Kate Daly reminded us, mental load plays a major role. From running a house to planning childcare, the cognitive burden women carry often leaves little room for pensions or investment plans.
“Until men start sharing the mental load, we won’t close the gender wealth gap.” – Kate Daly
3. 💬 Talk about money – early and often
Whether it’s money dates with your partner or sharing salary ranges with friends, the panellists agreed: transparency is a game-changer. Getting comfortable talking about money helps shift power and tackle taboos.
“We’re happy to pay more for a better hotel, but when it comes to salaries – if we have more value, our price goes up too.” – Chelsea Karaolis
4. 🏦 Investing feels risky — but so does not investing
Women are more likely to avoid investing because it feels too risky. But as financial coach Mooka Maboshe pointed out, keeping money in savings isn’t risk-free either, not when inflation is eating away at its value.
“People forget: your savings account carries risk too – it’s called inflation.” – Mooka Maboshe
5. 🤝 Allyship starts with policy
Want to build a truly equitable workplace? Then you need to think beyond pay. Shared parental leave, inclusive hiring, and access to money coaching are just some of the practical ways employers can step up.
“Employees today want support that makes a real difference to their lives – not just another perk.” – Chrissie Lewis
Huge thanks to our incredible speakers — Kate Daly, Chelsea Karaolis, Mooka Maboshe, and host Chrissie Lewis — and to everyone who attended, asked questions, and shared stories.