About the report

The cohorts include female entrepreneurs, High Net Worth (HNW) women and rural women earners. Drawing on responses with 1,342 women across India’s North (23%), South (36%), East (14%) and West (27%) zones, the study uncovers sharp contrasts as well as shared patterns in financial autonomy, life goals, digital engagement, support systems and long-term planning.

Highlights

digital transaction
Implemented an environmental sustainability policy icon
69%

of female entrepreneurs and 84% of HNW women said that a bank’s global footprint plays an important role in influencing their choice of banking partner

Credit cards
Implemented an environmental sustainability policy icon
89%

of female entrepreneurs surveyed identify as primary decision-makers in financial matters

Long term
Implemented an environmental sustainability policy icon
44%

of female entrepreneurs surveyed value access to peer networks

Finanice
Implemented an environmental sustainability policy icon
64%

of female entrepreneurs surveyed use UPI, and 59% actively use digital financial tools such as banking apps.

Savings accounts
Implemented an environmental sustainability policy icon
84%

Of HNW women surveyed and 37% of female entrepreneurs surveyed said that buying a new home or property is a key priority, highlighting a strong preference for tangible assets and an affinity for home ownership.

Mr. Surojit Shome

Insights from the latest report in our Women and Finance study highlight the growing importance female entrepreneurs place on institutional credibility and global connectivity when choosing a banking partner. This reflects the value they place on trusted partners that can support cross-border ambitions, offer access to global markets and connect them to broader ecosystems.

The findings also highlight that while access to credit continues to be an important enabler of growth, many female entrepreneurs are increasingly looking for support that goes beyond traditional banking services. Access to mentors, peer networks and investor connections is emerging as an important part of the journey as businesses scale. The insights underscore the importance of engaging with entrepreneurs in a more holistic way, combining financial solutions with ecosystem support that helps businesses grow meaningfully.