The gold boom rewards women: the female role in investments in the precious metal is growing
6 MAR, 2026
By Joanna Piwko from RankiaPro Europe
The sharp rise in the price of gold in recent years has generated unexpected winners among global investors, according to the report Women and wealth. The timeless allure of gold, published by Julius Bär.
Among these, women stand out, who in various parts of the world are taking on an increasing role in the demand for gold as a tool for wealth protection and financial stability. From the centuries-old tradition of Indian families to the new British and Chinese investors, gold is establishing itself as an increasingly central asset in women's investment strategies, also in light of the social and demographic changes that are transferring an increasing share of global wealth into the hands of women.
Indian women among the big winners of the gold rally
The recent increase in gold prices has benefited various large holders of the precious metal, including central banks, asset managers and holders of physical gold. However, one of the most advantaged groups is represented by Indian women, who hold a surprisingly high share of the world's gold reserves.
According to estimates cited in the Julius Baer report, Indian families own about 34,600 tons of gold, of which almost 80% is in the hands of women. Considering that the total global reserves amount to about 171,300 tons, this means that Indian women hold about 28,000 tons, equivalent to about 16% of the world's gold.
This wealth does not derive from a modern investment strategy, but from a cultural tradition rooted for centuries. In India, gold represents more than 20% of family savings, compared to a global average of about 2.3%, and is often given to women at key moments in life such as weddings or religious celebrations. In addition to its symbolic value, the precious metal serves as a form of economic security and financial independence.
Women's interest in gold is growing in global markets
Women's attraction to gold is not limited to India. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in female participation also in Western and Asian markets.
In the United Kingdom, for example, the Royal Mint has recorded a strong increase in female investors: the share of women among customers rose to 26% in 2024, compared to 8% in 2018. Many female investors prefer accessible tools such as small gold bars or coins, used as a form of risk management in portfolios.
In China, moreover, a group of middle-aged female investors nicknamed by the media "Chinese Auntie Investors" is helping to support the demand for physical gold. In 2025 Chinese investors purchased 432 tons of bars and coins, equivalent to about one third of global purchases in this segment and growing by 28% compared to 2024.
The strong demand is also fueled by the domestic economic context: the weakness of the real estate market, the volatility of the stock exchanges and the low bank rates push many savers to look for more stable assets. The possibility of buying gold through digital platforms like WeChat or Alipay has also helped to expand access to investments in precious metals.
Gold and female investments: stability, diversification and new wealth balances
The growing female presence in the gold market also reflects typical characteristics of women's investment styles. Studies cited in the report indicate that 51% of women consider themselves conservative investors, compared to 47% of men, while only 3% of women define themselves as aggressive against 6% of men.
In this context, gold meets many of the needs of this investor profile. According to the World Gold Council, the precious metal is a highly liquid asset, free of credit risk and historically capable of preserving value over time. It can also contribute to portfolio diversification and offer protection against inflation and currency fluctuations.
Simultaneously, social and demographic changes are increasing the economic weight of women. The increase in female life expectancy, the generational transfer of wealth, and the growth of female entrepreneurship are bringing an increasing share of global wealth under women's control. This phenomenon paves the way for more active participation in investment management and the definition of financial goals more oriented towards long-term security and intergenerational wealth transmission.
In this scenario, gold continues to be considered a strategic tool to strengthen the resilience of portfolios, especially in times of economic and geopolitical uncertainty.
