There’s a subtle yet powerful transformation unfolding in South Africa’s financial landscape—and women are at the heart of it. No longer just participants, women are becoming key decision-makers in shaping the country’s economy. From buying homes and cars to managing insurance and long-term investments, a new era of female financial independence is taking root.
Standard Bank’s latest figures tell a compelling story: nearly 40% of all main home loan applicants are now women, and what’s even more striking is that two-thirds of those women are purchasing property independently. That’s more than a trend—it’s a bold statement of self-sufficiency.
For years, women have comprised the majority of Standard Bank’s home loan base. But in just the past two years, 66% of female main applicants have bought homes without a co-applicant—a major shift that underscores how women are confidently securing their financial futures. These are individuals who have worked hard, saved strategically, and are investing in long-term stability—on their own terms.
And even for those who haven’t yet taken that step, the momentum is encouraging. Owning a home no longer feels like a distant dream but a reachable milestone, thanks to the growing community of women proving that financial freedom is within grasp.
Beyond Property: Owning the Journey
The movement goes far beyond home ownership. Women now make up nearly 44% of Standard Bank’s Vehicle and Asset Finance clientele, a rise from 38.5% a decade ago. Young women—particularly those aged 31 to 45—are leading this evolution, choosing vehicles that reflect both their lifestyles and their financial goals.
Buying a car, for many, isn’t just about transport—it’s about empowerment. That first car often symbolizes independence, mobility, and the power of choice. Choosing a fuel-efficient, affordable vehicle that fits one’s plan is more than a purchase—it’s a financial milestone.
Insurance, Risk, and Responsibility
Even in the insurance sector, women are increasingly taking charge. Data from Standard Insurance Limited shows that women now file the majority of short-term insurance claims among clients aged 34 to 44, especially among single or divorced policyholders. This isn’t just about asset protection—it reflects a growing confidence in managing risk proactively.
Dr Hardy Ncube, Head of Personal Products at Standard Insurance Limited, highlights this shift:
“Our data challenges the traditional narrative, showing that women are not only actively engaged but may even surpass men in certain policyholder demographics.”
It’s a powerful redefinition of what financial leadership looks like—and women are setting the tone.
Financing More Than Assets
As many women continue to navigate their financial journeys, there’s a shared understanding that independence comes in many forms. Whether buying a home, choosing the right vehicle, or managing insurance, each decision is an act of self-determination.
This is about more than financing homes or cars—it’s about financing freedom, security, and a future that reflects personal values and goals.
So, this Women’s Day, to every woman shaping her financial path—whether you’re just starting or already holding the keys—know this: you’re not alone. You’re part of a growing movement that’s changing South Africa’s financial narrative, one empowered decision at a time.
Happy Women’s Day.
