Survey: Over 60% of women in HK, SG and ID manage finances independently

Over 60% of women in Indonesia (76%), Hong Kong (66%) and Singapore (62%) say they manage their finances on their own, a YouGov survey finds. However, in India, fewer than half (45%) manage their finances independently, closely followed by the UAE (47%). 

Conducted online in February 2025, the survey includes responses from adults aged 18 and older across 17 international markets, with sample sizes ranging from 501 to 2,124 for each market.

The survey shows that two-thirds of women globally (67%) manage their finances independently. While 11% rely on a partner or family, 9% combine personal management with external assistance. Women in Scandinavian countries tend to be more self-reliant, with 87% of Danish women and 78% of Swedish women managing their finances independently. Across Europe, at least three-quarters of women report managing finances on their own, including 77% in Germany and France, 76% in Poland, and 75% in the UK.

The survey also found that only 30% of women globally feel confident in making financial decisions. A larger portion (45%) feels somewhat confident but seeks advice from others. Swedish women lead with 51% reporting confidence in their financial management, followed by 47% in Denmark.

Globally, 13% of women feel uncertain and rely on others when making financial decisions. The highest proportions of this group come from Italy and Spain, where 25% of women express such concerns.

In terms of active financial decisions, globally 44% of women report actively creating and maintaining a household budget. Additionally, 42% are saving for emergencies or retirement, while 38% are planning and saving for large purchases such as a home or car. Over a third of women worldwide are also engaged in managing debt (36%) or buying and managing insurance (34%).

Scandinavian countries lead in engagement with almost every financial decision, particularly in areas such as insurance, saving for large purchases, and debt management. In contrast, countries such as Mexico, Italy, and India show lower participation in many financial areas.

Saving for emergencies is also a priority for women in Singapore and Hong Kong, alongside those in Denmark and Sweden, where more than half are involved in this decision, highlighting a strong focus on financial security and long-term planning in these markets.

A fifth of women worldwide (20%) are actively involved in investment decisions, including stocks, bonds, or real estate. Women in Sweden (51%) and Denmark (45%) show the highest engagement in investment decisions. In Asia, women in Hong Kong (41%), Singapore (36%), and India (29%) are more likely to be involved in investment-related decisions compared to other regions.

When it comes to factors influencing their financial decision-making, nearly three in ten women (28%) say the fear of making mistakes is a key factor. Close behind, 27% feel empowered by their understanding of finances, which shapes their decisions. 

Lack of financial resources is a challenge for 27% of women, while 25% report that support from family or partners plays a role. Additionally, 24% cite work-related financial benefits as influencing their choices.

Don't miss: Survey: 65% of women in Asia feel more financially secure amid challenges

The YouGov's survey aligns with another study titled “Women’s Wealth in Focus: Building Confidence and Security” conducted by Sun Life. This study reveals that nearly two-thirds (65%) of women in Asia believe their financial stability has increased compared to earlier generations, with Vietnam leading (75%), followed by Indonesia (71%), Singapore (66%), the Philippines (60%), Hong Kong, and Malaysia (59%).

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