Empowering female leaders: Let’s break that glass ceiling
In 2021, women held around 8% of CEO roles in Fortune 500 companies (US largest companies). Up from less than 1% in 2000. It’s a sign that the glass ceiling is cracking but we're still waiting for it to shatter.
Last Updated: 1 January 2003
While progress has been made, the pace suggests there is more work to be done to push for true gender equality in the boardroom. And for us, it’s not quick enough. There’s so much further we can go to move towards equality.
Some asset managers are advocating for greater female representation at CEO level. These firms believe women in leadership drive economic growth, better financial performance, and positive societal change.
One of the firms leading this charge is Hypatia Capital and its Hypatia Women CEO Index. It aims to track the performance of US companies worth over $500 million, all led by female CEOs.
It offers a snapshot of how these companies have performed under female leadership.
The belief is that investing in companies led by women can generate higher returns over the long term. Why? Because, due to the unique challenges women face in advancing to the top, those who succeed must have extraordinary leadership characteristics.
However, the results tell a more nuanced story.
Remember, past performance is not a guide to future returns. Source: LSEG Datastream, to 31 December 2024.
The performance of the Hypatia Women CEO Index is broadly comparable to the wider market, made up of both male and female CEOs, rather than outpacing them.
This highlights a more important truth. Gender alone is not a determining factor in great leadership.
While gender diversity is critical for fostering inclusion and driving innovation, the success of a company is more about the qualities of leadership than the gender of the CEO.
What we need to do as a society is give equal opportunities so women can reach the top.
Looking ahead, the key for women - and for everyone - is developing the skills, mindset, and leadership qualities that drive success. While gender may have played a role in shaping opportunities for some, it’s individual talent, determination and the ability to rise to challenges that truly define a leader.
Every woman has the power to shape her own path to success. Whether it’s through entrepreneurship, corporate leadership, or making an impact in her community.
At Financially Fearless, we strive for women to have financial success and empowerment. Whether you're investing in companies or building your own career. Invest in yourself. Build your skills. Make informed financial decisions. And you too can unlock your full potential.
We believe the future is bright for women leaders. Leaders who embrace their unique talents and stay focused on what matters. Creating value, making a difference and leading with purpose.
Join our Financially Fearless community today. Start taking control of your financial future. Invest with confidence and empower yourself to make smarter financial decisions.
This isn’t personal advice. Our service is designed for investors who prefer to make their own investment decisions. If you're unsure of the suitability of an investment for your circumstances, seek advice.
Female CEOs selected from the Hypatia Women CEO Index
Jane Fraser – CEO of Citi Group
Since taking the helm four years ago, Jane Fraser has worked to transform Citi for the digital age. With a 20-year career at Citi, she has held leadership roles across the company’s consumer and institutional businesses. She is Vice Chair of the Partnership for New York City as well as the Financial Services Forum to name a few.
Abigail Johnson – CEO of Fidelity Investments
Abigail Johnson has led Fidelity since 2014. She joined the company in 1988 as an analyst and portfolio manager. In 2018, she launched a platform for institutional investors to trade cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ether. She worked her way up through different roles, gaining valuable experience and knowledge of the investment industry.
Dr. Lisa Su – CEO at Advanced Micro Devices (AMD)
Dr. Lisa Su joined AMD 11 years ago as senior vice president and general manager of global business units. She was responsible for overseeing AMD products and solutions. As CEO, Dr. Su has transformed the company into a leader in high-performance computing. She has helped solve global challenges by delivering next-generation computing and AI solutions.
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