Money hasn’t always felt like a welcoming conversation for women. Too often it’s been framed as something we should have started earlier, understood better or felt more confident about by now. A space filled with jargon, judgement and quiet assumptions, where the focus sits firmly on what’s missing rather than what’s possible.
But there’s a quiet but powerful shift happening. More women are questioning where their money is going, how it’s working for them and whether it supports the choices they’re making right now. Whether that’s for career changes and business ownership or caring responsibilities and lifestyle goals. Not just for retirement. But for today, tomorrow and every stage in between.
Of course, pensions matter. They always will. But for many women, they’ve been the only financial conversation they’ve really been invited into. Women are now taking a broader, more connected view - looking at savings, investments, property and protection as part of one evolving picture.
Edinburgh Financial Planner James Hassall-Marlow of Melville Independent sees this shift as long overdue.
“Most people spend more time planning what they’ll watch on TV or where they’ll go on holiday than planning their finances. Not because they don’t care but because they don’t know where to start. While the advice itself is important, often it’s about bringing structure and accountability to how someone manages their money.”
“Once you start engaging with a financial advisor, we’ll often be the only other person in the world who cares as much about your finances as you do - and in some cases even more so. We’ll look at what you have, what you owe, what’s coming in and what’s going out. We highlight priorities straight away. Over time, the impact of suitable advice and ongoing planning can be life-changing, and in some cases can be the difference between a comfortable later life or a struggle,” James adds.
How Clarity Builds Financial Confidence
Confidence with money doesn’t come from knowing everything. It comes from understanding enough to make informed decisions. When finances feel fragmented or unclear, avoidance is easy. But when women can see the full picture, money becomes more manageable. That clarity changes behaviour, and over time, outcomes.
Why Women Need Financial Plans That Reflect Real Life
Women’s financial journeys are rarely linear. Careers pause and restart. Businesses are built. Caring responsibilities emerge. Relationships change. Priorities shift.
Melville Independent Financial Adviser and Pension Transfer Specialist Julie Burgoyne believes retirement planning for women must start with understanding what’s already in place.
“Women potentially will take career breaks, often for childcare. Women generally live longer, Gender Pay Gap and don’t forget the Menopause, these factors all need to be taken into account when planning for retirement.”
She stresses that knowledge is the foundation.
“Do you know what pensions you have, including any from previous employment? Do you have gaps in your State Pension? How is your pension invested? What charges are you paying? Are they working efficiently, and when can you access them? Once we have a full understanding of what we have and what options are available, we can then plan for the future. Knowledge is key.”
Investing With Purpose
Another clear shift in 2026 is how women are approaching investing. Rather than chasing short-term wins, many are focused on long-term value, sustainability and alignment with their personal values. They want to understand not just what they’re investing in, but why. This considered approach is a strength and research consistently shows it leads to stronger outcomes over time.
Why Taking Control Often Starts With One Conversation
Taking financial control doesn’t need to be scary. Often, it starts with a single conversation, a review, a question, a decision to stop putting it off.
In 2026, that moment is happening for more women than ever. From reacting to planning. From uncertainty to confidence. And with it comes something far more valuable than numbers on a page. It brings peace of mind, independence and the confidence to shape life on their own terms.
Melville Independent are an Edinburgh-based wealth management company offering independent financial advice on Melville Street. They’ve been assisting clients, and many fellow eggs, for over a decade.
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