The worlds of fashion and finance collided recently when ASB Private Banking and Wealth Advisory hosted an intimate evening at iconic Kiwi designer Karen Walker’s flagship Britomart boutique days before her runway show at New Zealand Fashion Week. Among the racks of pearl-toned dresses and statement accessories, a different kind of conversation unfolded—one about money, confidence, and the future of women and wealth.
The timing couldn’t be more pointed. With the “Great Inter-generational Wealth Transfer” underway, trillions of dollars are expected to shift hands globally in the coming decade — much of it flowing to women. As Amehl Smith, ASB’s Head of Private Banking, put it, “statistically, women outlive men. That means women are increasingly stepping into the role of decision-makers and investors. This isn’t just a local trend — it’s a global shift reshaping the way wealth is managed and distributed.”
In a candid conversation, Karen Walker, ASB’s Senior Economist Chris Tennent-Brown, and Managing Director at BlackRock, Chantal Giles, explored not just the numbers but the mindsets, values, and choices that shape women’s financial futures.
Money mindsets and the female advantage
Every financial journey begins with mindset, which is learned early and carried for life.
Walker - a long-time client of ASB - recalls a formative moment with her daughter, “From the age of five, we set the rule that part of every dollar of pocket money had to be saved before anything could be spent. It wasn’t about how much — it was about creating a habit that would last a lifetime.”
At the same time, women naturally face hurdles in wealth building: pay gaps, career breaks, and longer life expectancy. But trends tell there’s a bigger truth pushing back against these barriers — women often invest more effectively.
BlackRock’s Giles explains, “Women are excellent investors. They tend to be more patient, more values-driven, and better at taking the long view. The real barrier isn’t capability — it’s confidence.”
BlackRock’s rGiles urged women not to wait for permission. That means claiming a voice in household finances, asking questions, and making decisions that reflect shared priorities. “Wealth is a team sport,” she says. “If you’re not involved, now is the time to get involved.”
For Tennent-Brown, early money memories were shaped by scarcity. “I grew up in a household where financial stress was common. It taught me that putting off financial decisions only makes problems worse. Avoidance compounds, but advice and planning bring relief.”
From left to right: Ngaire Angus, ASB Head of Wealth Distribution; Chantal Giles, Managing Director BlackRock; Chris Tennent-Brown, ASB Senior Economist; Karen Walker, celebrated New Zealand Fashion Designer; Amehl Smith, ASB Head of Private Banking
Investing with legacy and values
When women invest, the “why” often matters more than the “how.” Legacy isn’t just about leaving money — it’s about what that money enables.
For Walker, priorities come first, “Family, health, and the home are non-negotiable. Beyond that, I can invest with more freedom and creativity.”
Her own career — — reflected that same discipline and appetite for calculated risk-taking. Yet she’s quick to point out the importance of expertise, “If you don’t know your numbers, you don’t have a business — you have a hobby. And just like I wouldn’t do my own dental work, I know when to bring in the right financial experts.”
Giles frames values-based investing as a defining strength. “Women are much more thoughtful in their money management, and that’s a superpower. They invest with heart and with family in mind, and that enables them to take a long-term view. That extra time in market makes all the difference to long-term returns.”
Considering life stage and recalibrating when needed is also important. Tennent-Brown tells us too many people cling to assets that no longer serve their lifestyles and values. “Wealth should serve you — not the other way around,” he says. “Enabling yourself to make those calls with the right conversations and support is key.”
Financial Confidence – the ultimate accessory
If there’s one universal takeaway, it’s this: financial confidence changes everything.
Like the right accessory that transforms an outfit, confidence transforms how women show up in their lives. It doesn’t mean knowing everything — it means knowing where to start, who to ask, and being willing to act.
Walker summarises it to a single truth, “The most powerful accessory you can own is financial independence. Everything else follows.”
“Build your confidence the same way you build your wardrobe — piece by piece, decision by decision,” advises Ngaire Angus, ASB’s Head of Wealth Distribution. “Over time, this incremental action builds into something powerful. It’s what we’re passionate about within our Wealth Advisory and Private Banking teams, and what our people are here to help with.”
Here’s what matters most:
- Don’t underestimate yourself. Women are more capable investors than they believe.
- Lean on the experts. A great adviser is as essential as a great dentist or tailor.
- Invest with purpose. Align money with values, family, and legacy.
- Act now. Waiting costs more than acting early.