The analyst spoke about the stereotypes around female investors

The stereotype that women are more cautious and risk-averse when trading on the stock exchange may influence their investment decisions and approach to financial planning. Vladimir Chernov, an analyst at Freedom Finance Global, told Izvestia about this on March 8.

According to him, such a view is often perceived as a neutral observation, but in practice it forms expectations on the part of consultants, financial media and even close associates. As a result, women are more likely to be offered conservative investment strategies, while the discussion of broader investment opportunities remains in the background.

"Investments are often presented as a complex and not entirely "feminine" topic. Because of this, some potential investors may have less confidence in their own capabilities, even if there is interest in the market and a willingness to understand," the expert noted.

Chernov pointed out that the gap between interest in investments and actual participation in bidding is confirmed by international studies. Thus, according to Fidelity's Global Investor Study for 2023, women in developed countries are no less likely than men to declare their desire to invest and set long-term financial goals. However, they often postpone the start due to lack of confidence in their knowledge and fears of making a mistake.

When discussing differences in investment behavior, biological factors are sometimes mentioned. A number of scientific papers link risk-taking to testosterone levels: at higher values, people are more likely to make risky decisions. However, as the researchers themselves note, the hormonal factor is not decisive. Access to information, the quality of financial recommendations, income levels, and career breaks have a significantly greater impact.

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The analyst stressed that excessive caution in investments has a downside. Risk aversion does reduce portfolio value fluctuations, but at the same time limits its growth potential.

According to Chernov, a simple and understandable investment structure is important for novice investors. In a conservative strategy, the portfolio is often based on bonds, debt securities that allow you to earn a fixed income. In the Russian market, federal loan bonds (OFZ) remain the key instrument, the yield of which in recent years has fluctuated approximately in the range of 10-15% per annum, depending on the maturity of the securities and the level of the key rate.

In addition to them, investors often include shares of large stable companies — the so-called blue chips. Such securities help to maintain portfolio profitability over a long period of time and offset the impact of inflation.

Gold or funds for this metal can be used as a protective instrument. Such assets do not generate regular income, but they help reduce the overall risk of a portfolio during periods of economic or geopolitical instability.

Chernov also noted that when forming an investment strategy, it is important to take into account the investment horizon. In the short term, more stable instruments are preferable, whereas for long-term purposes, a large share of shares is allowed.

According to him, the psychological comfort of the investor remains an important criterion.

"If a strategy forces you to constantly monitor market fluctuations and worry about each drawdown, the risk of mistakes increases. A simple and understandable portfolio structure often turns out to be no less important than potential profitability," the analyst emphasized.

On February 25, financial expert, economist and founder of the Financial Literacy School Olga Gogaladze named the key investment instruments of 2026 to Izvestia. According to her, individual investment accounts remain relevant. An individual investment account (AIS) makes it possible to receive a tax deduction, which increases the final return: depending on the personal income tax rate, the refund can reach 88 thousand rubles per year. Deposits and savings accounts also remain in demand, but more often they perform the function of temporary "parking" of funds.

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