SheLeads India: Why Women Must Own Their Financial Journeys

The world of finance has traditionally been considered a male-dominated arena, but SheThePeople joined hands with BSE to bring together women leaders, reinforcing the message that women don’t just participate in the economy—they drive it. At the event held at BSE’s International Conventional Hall (ICH), the panellists emphasised that empowerment is beyond economic independence and financial literacy is a cornerstone for it. Financial literacy not only can help women achieve financial independence but also catalyze India’s economic growth. Other participating organisations in the event included UN Women, MSCI India and Women in ETF (WE).

Noting how more women are leading businesses, driving change, and even ringing the bell for their own IPOs, Shaili Chopra, Founder, SheThePeople and Gytee reflected on how India's economic future hinges on women's participation. "Behind every woman is herself," she states, a reminder that women’s empowerment comes from within.

In a rapidly evolving world where economic security is vital, equipping women with financial literacy is not just a necessity—it is a game-changer. From handling daily expenses to making investment decisions and preparing for unforeseen circumstances, financial preparedness ensures stability and self-reliance.

“Financial skills must be gender-agnostic,” expressed Kamala K, Chief Regulatory Officer, BSE, a sentiment that strongly resonated with many. "If financial well-being is an important goal for a family, it’s even more crucial for women. Many, even the educated ones, are still not fully prepared to manage finances independently. True empowerment comes from financial literacy and preparedness—handling investments, managing expenses, and planning for unforeseen circumstances. The future of equality isn’t just about inclusion but about equipping every individual with the tools to navigate economic realities confidently."

Today, many women are making informed decisions, with many even launching their own enterprises. SheLeads also highlighted the significant role of women-led small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in India’s economy. Although women’s representation in organised SMEs is still growing—Radha Kirthivasan, Head of Listing & SME at BSE, noted that “there are hardly around 50 listed SMEs wherein the women are the leading partners”— the hope and potential for expansion are evident. With over 6.3 crore SMEs driving employment and contributing immensely to the nation’s exports, empowering women in these spaces is seen as a catalyst for broader economic progress.

One of the key takeaways from the discussion was the importance of financial preparedness. Economic security is not just a privilege but a necessity, and equipping women with financial literacy enables them to secure their future, and contribute meaningfully to the economy. This call to awareness resonates strongly today, as more women embrace the importance of financial literacy as a foundation for both personal and professional growth.

However, for many women in India, the journey to financial literacy has been challenging. Traditionally, societal norms have relegated women to roles that sideline discussions about money. Journalist Namrata Zakaria recalled, “Financial independence is a lesson that I learned very late in life. I grew up in a very conservative business family where young girls were trained to be good housewives—making round phulkas and aloo gobi. But fortunately, my mother was a single mom, and she told me, ‘Husbands will come and go, your best friend should be your bank balance.” Such reflections illustrate the journey from past limitations to a future where women are not only aware of their finances but are also taking decisive steps to manage and grow them.

Why financial literacy is key to women’s empowerment

A recurring theme at SheLeads India 2025 was the need for early financial education. Many speakers advocated that lessons on saving, investing, and managing money should start in schools, ensuring that young girls grow up with the skills and confidence to navigate the financial world. As entrepreneur Aditi Duggar emphasised, it’s not just about personal wealth—it’s about building enterprise value and creating an ecosystem where women can lead and innovate.

Experts advocated for integrating financial literacy into school curriculum to ensure that young girls grow up with the confidence and skills to manage money effectively. Another sentiment which resonated with the audience was the idea that financial independence brings freedom. “Money is the power to say no,” this quote eloquently captures the essence of financial independence—the ability to make decisions without external pressures. It reflects how financial literacy can liberate women, enabling them to stand up for themselves, whether in business negotiations, personal relationships, or broader societal engagements.

SheLeads India 2025 was a testament to the power of financial literacy and the growing role of women in the economy. With education, empowerment, and a proactive mindset, women are leading the way toward a more inclusive and prosperous future for India. As Shaili Chopra aptly put it, “When women lead, they don’t just transform their own lives—they transform communities, economies, and the world.”