Background: The investment pattern among working women in Kerala has been changing in recent years. In the past, working women are more likely to save their money than invest it. However, with the increasing availability of investment options and the growing awareness of the importance of investing, more and more working women are now investing their money.
A study by the Centre for Development Studies in Thiruvananthapuram found that the investment pattern among working women in Kerala is now more diversified than ever before. The study found that working women are now investing in a variety of asset classes, including mutual funds, stocks, bonds, and real estate.
The most preferred investment pattern among working women in Kerala is a mix of traditional and modern investment options. Traditional investment options, such as gold and real estate, are still popular among working women, as they are seen as safe and secure investments. However, modern investment options, such as mutual funds and stocks, are also becoming increasingly popular, as they offer the potential for higher returns.
Objectives
Methodology: The study uses both primary and secondary data. Primary data is collected using a structured questionnaire from 120 working women respondents in the age group between 26-55 years engaged in different sectors in Kadackanad village through a structured questionnaire. The secondary data for the study is collected from various sources like journals, articles, newspaper, books etc. The main tools used for analysis and interpretation are simple Percentage method, Weighted Average method, Correlation supported with graphs and tables.
Results: It was found that most respondents are aware of the different avenues of investment, but prefer savings bank as their investment option, that too, in the public sector. The study revealed that there is a positive correlation (0.38) between the annual income of the respondents and the percentage of the income they are willing to invest. The main aim of the investment is to secure their financial status. A savings bank is the most preferred investment option. The motive for the above preference is primarily financial protection for 46.7%, wealth creation for 20%, and cash liquidity for 13.3% of the respondents. 56.7% of the working women respondents are ready to undertake a moderate level of risk during investment. 36.7% of the respondents consider high returns as the priority factor before investing. 56.7% prefer the mid-term (1-5 years) as the period to invest.
Conclusion: The changing investment pattern among working women in Kerala is a positive development. It shows that working women are becoming more financially savvy and are taking control of their financial future. It is important for working women to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all investment strategy. The best investment strategy for one woman may not be the best investment strategy for another woman. Working women should work with a financial advisor to develop an investment strategy that meets their individual needs and goals.
Keywords: Investment, Investment Awareness, Working Women, Kerala.
