Cover Irene Ho is deputy chief executive office of Finexis Advisory (Photo: Courtesy of Irene Ho)
Irene Ho is deputy chief executive office of Finexis Advisory (Photo: Courtesy of Irene Ho)
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In line with International Women’s Day, Finexis Advisory’s deputy chief executive officer Irene Ho shares insights on closing the wealth gap, and accelerating women’s financial confidence
International Women’s Day 2025 carries the theme Accelerate Action, calling for bold, tangible steps toward gender equality—especially through women’s economic empowerment. According to a 2024 report by the World Economic Forum, achieving full gender parity at its current pace could take until 2158, approximately five generations from now. This underscores the urgency of addressing systemic barriers and biases that continue to hinder women’s financial independence.
Women’s financial security remains a cornerstone of gender equality, yet challenges persist in closing the wealth gap, increasing investment confidence, and ensuring long-term economic stability.
For Irene Ho, deputy chief executive officer of Finexis Advisory, the path to change is clear. With two decades of experience in financial consulting, she has been instrumental in advancing financial literacy, advocating for women’s economic empowerment, and fostering inclusive hiring in the industry. In this conversation with Tatler, Ho shares how women can overcome financial hesitancy, take actionable steps toward independence, and accelerate the closure of the wealth gap.
Above Irene Ho
Irene Ho
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Societal expectations can sometimes discourage women from actively engaging in investments and wealth management, thereby leaving financial matters to their spouses. Ho believes this mindset needs to shift. “Being a woman is tough,” she acknowledges. “You’re a daughter, a wife, a mother, probably managing a household too. Many women still face structural challenges such as the gender pay gap and career breaks for caregiving responsibilities.” Ho adds that these obstacles often lead to a lack of confidence in making investment decisions. “Some women will think, ‘I don’t have to care about it,’ but this needs to change,” Ho enthuses. “Women need better financial literacy, and there should be more policies that enable them to take more control over their financial confidence.”
For those looking to take charge of their financial future, Ho suggests starting small. “Financial literacy is a journey, not something you master overnight,” she says. “You don’t need to know everything at once. Take small baby steps—start a conversation with a financial advisor and explore digital financial tools and self-learning resources—to propel yourself towards gaining confidence. Taking small steps builds momentum, and one action leads to another, like a flywheel.”
Above Taking charge of your financial future begins with taking small and actionable steps (Photo: Getty Images)
Taking charge of your financial future begins with taking small and actionable steps (Photo: Getty Images)
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She further explains, “Investment doesn’t have to be scary or intimidating. It’s not just about stocks and shares—it can start with something as simple as a savings account. The key is to develop good habits. For example, when you get your pay check, the first thing you should do is pay yourself first. Set aside an amount into a separate mid- to long-term savings account. Small actions like that matter.”
Ho emphasises that financial planning should be tailored to individual goals rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. “Every financial plan is unique to the person. Therefore, engaging [a client] in meaningful conversations, asking real questions about what they care about and what is important to them is crucial.”
She shares that women tend to consider the needs of their partner, kids, and family as a whole beyond themselves. “It’s not just about numbers or returns; it’s about their goals, their worries, their dreams,” Ho continues.
To address these nuances, Finexis Advisory holds in-depth discussions with its clients to focus on what truly matters to them. Ho shares that these sessions proved conducive to creating a financial plan that gives women confidence and peace of mind. “Through these conversations, we can help them bring out their real concerns and then slowly put things into place, translating numbers into action and guiding them through the journey.”
Above Financial planning and wealth management should be tailored to individual goals rather than a one-size-fits-all approach (Photo: Getty Images)
Financial planning and wealth management should be tailored to individual goals rather than a one-size-fits-all approach (Photo: Getty Images)
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As a leader in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Ho understands the importance of representation. “When I attend industry gatherings, there are very few women in leadership roles,” she observes. “Such industries require resilience and adaptability. You shouldn’t have to fit into a mould of what a leader ‘should’ be, but rather, focus on creating value and being yourself.”
She adds that women leaders tend to have unique strengths, such as taking a different approach to problem-solving and dealing with issues with increased empathy, a style of leadership that works very well to bring balance to the financial sector.
She also highlights the stories of female financial advisors at Finexis Advisory who have made a career shift. “Many of them are in their mid-40s. Some took a break from their careers to raise their children and later transitioned into financial advisory. They took a risk, changed industries, and are now helping families plan for their futures. What’s amazing is that this career gives them the flexibility to balance their personal and professional lives.”
In line with International Women’s Day 2025, Ho remains steadfast in empowering women to accelerate their financial independence. “Your financial future is in your hands, start today because every step forward counts. Take ownership—don’t delegate it to someone else. Take control of your finances, educate yourself, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.” Ho also reiterates that financial independence is much more than personal wealth; it’s about empowerment and gaining the confidence to make life decisions on your own terms.
Sabrina Low was the former assistant digital editor for Tatler Singapore.
