Building financial security starts early. In our latest edition of LO Women invest, we focus on retirement planning, highlighting key milestones and the specific challenges many women face. We also share our latest market outlook, insights on private assets, and an analysis of sustainable investment opportunities, in recognition of International Women’s Day.
Why women retire with less and the proven ways to change the outcome
key takeaways.
- Women retire with around 25% less pension income than men due to accumulated career breaks, part-time work, and uneven contributions.
- Early, consistent planning can significantly reduce long-term disparities and improve retirement security.
- Pension systems vary widely across countries, creating different risks and opportunities for women at each life stage.
- Part-time work and interrupted careers often have disproportionate effects on pension accruals, making regular reviews essential.
- Personal savings, voluntary contributions, and understanding country-specific rules can strengthen long-term resilience.
- Legal frameworks, particularly where marital property rules aren’t automatic, can materially affect women’s financial security.
- Building financial independence is lifelong: starting early and adapting plans over time makes the greatest difference.
Women retire with less pension income across all major economies, but early planning and informed decisions can narrow the gap. Explore insights from our…
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A cross-country snapshot: what to know (and where women can gain an edge)
Switzerland: powerful tools if activated early
France: solidarity, but personal savings are crucial
Belgium: a familiar three-pillar logic with added flexibility
Spain: a strong public system, with limits on supplementation
United Kingdom: tax efficiency, evolving rules, and estate implications
Brazil: public pillars under pressure, private solutions gaining importance
United Arab Emirates: a dual system where legal details matter
The earlier you start, the more options you have
view sources.
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1 https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/2025/11/pensions-at-a-glance-2025_76510fe4/full-report/gender-pension-gap_90ed13b5.html
2 https://www.deloitte.com/global/en/issues/work/genz-millennial-survey.html
2 https://www.deloitte.com/global/en/issues/work/genz-millennial-survey.html
important information
This is a marketing communication issued by Bank Lombard Odier & Co Ltd (hereinafter “Lombard Odier”).
It is not intended for distribution, publication, or use in any jurisdiction where such distribution, publication, or use would be unlawful, nor is it aimed at any person or entity to whom it would be unlawful to address such a marketing communication.
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