Womens' pension prospects dulled by 'reckless conservatism'

Women take fewer risks than men

clock • 1 min read

The tendency for women to be more risk-adverse than men is a major contributor to pension inequality in the UK, according to research from Cass Business School and the University of Bristol.

Data collated in the Quantifying Loss Aversion: Evidence from a UK Population Survey discussion report, published this month, compares 4,000 respondents with a variety of gender, class and education differences to establish money and investment trends. The report found women take fewer risks than men, while younger and older people are more risk-adverse than the middle-aged. Those without children were also found to be likely to take risks than those with children. Looking at pensions specifically, the report found these behavioural traits to be particularly damaging on long-term savi...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Pensions

Chancellor 'confident' govt will not need to mandate pension scheme investment

Chancellor 'confident' govt will not need to mandate pension scheme investment

Rachel Reeves confirmed in Mansion House speech pension funds and government ‘are united’

Holly Roach
clock 16 July 2025 • 2 min read
Why documentation is king in the world of SSAS

Why documentation is king in the world of SSAS

'SSAS documentation - it isn't just best practice or a fiduciary requirement'

Caitlin Southall
clock 04 July 2025 • 4 min read
Steve Webb: Sceptical advisers should not give up on pensions dashboard

Steve Webb: Sceptical advisers should not give up on pensions dashboard

‘A big mistake to underestimate the impact it will have’

Jenna Brown
clock 03 July 2025 • 3 min read