As baby boomers age, women are playing a pivotal role in reshaping the largest wealth transfer in history. With women living longer than men, many are inheriting wealth and becoming key decision-makers for their family finances.

Women are taking a proactive approach to managing wealth, often switching financial advisers and prioritizing long-term goals like healthcare, philanthropy, and legacy planning. This marks a stark shift from earlier generations, when many women were excluded from financial decisions. Today, they control $8 trillion in liquid assets, a figure projected to grow significantly as baby boomers transfer $82 trillion in wealth.

These transitions aren’t always seamless, as women often face family disputes over inheritance. Experts encourage women to engage in financial planning early to ease these challenges. Additionally, women are making a meaningful impact by directing wealth to charitable causes, prioritizing longevity, and redefining how money supports future generations.

This trend reflects women’s growing influence in finance, aligning with the mission of empowering diverse perspectives in the financial industry.

Source: Wall Street Journal

https://www.wsj.com/personal-finance/baby-boomer-wealth-transfer-women-5776d3a5

As 2025 begins, corporate approaches to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are diverging sharply. Companies like Amazon, Meta, and McDonald’s are scaling back DEI initiatives, citing legal challenges and shifting cultural narratives. These changes send a clear message that inclusivity is no longer a priority, potentially alienating employees, recruits, and customers who value equitable workplaces.

In contrast, Apple is doubling down on its DEI commitments, signaling authenticity and a purpose-driven culture. Research shows such efforts appeal strongly to Gen Z and Millennial talent, who prioritize inclusive environments when choosing employers.

The next few years will reveal how these contrasting strategies impact hiring, retention, and overall success, with Apple betting on inclusivity to attract talent and strengthen its brand.

Source: Forbes

https://www.forbes.com/sites/drnancydoyle/2025/01/14/the-defence-of-dei-apple-versus-amazon/

In 2024, six states enacted laws targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) offices, hiring practices, and trainings at public universities, continuing a trend that began in 2023. These laws led to the closure of DEI offices and cultural centers in several states, with some institutions preemptively making changes even in states where bans failed to pass.

Critics argue that these efforts mischaracterize DEI and jeopardize academic freedom, with some fearing the return of legislation restricting classroom discussions. Looking ahead to 2025, conservative lawmakers in multiple states plan to introduce or reintroduce anti-DEI bills, with proposals potentially targeting mandatory DEI coursework in degree programs.

As debates over DEI’s role in higher education intensify, institutions face increasing pressure to balance compliance with preserving inclusivity and academic freedom.

Source: Inside Higher Ed

https://www.insidehighered.com/news/faculty-issues/diversity-equity/2024/12/16/how-battle-over-dei-shook-out-2024-and-whats-come

Faculty at the University of North Texas (UNT) have raised concerns about the university’s decision to rename and revise nearly 200 courses, primarily in the College of Education. The changes include the removal of references to race, class, gender, and equity, reportedly in response to Texas Senate Bill 17. While the law prohibits DEI offices, it does not mandate adjustments to course content.

Critics argue these actions represent overcompliance, threatening academic freedom and stifling discussions on diversity and inclusion. UNT, however, asserts that the revisions align with state education standards, a claim many see as unnecessary censorship undermining inclusive education.

Source: AP News

https://apnews.com/us-news/diversity-equity-and-inclusion-colleges-and-universities-general-news-1e095669736d3ca9301e109f3bded89e

A heartfelt thank you to McKinsey & LeanIn.Org for their powerful report. Special shout out to the authors as it is a collaborative effort by Alexis Krivkovich, Emily Field, Lareina Yee, and Megan McConnell, with Hannah Smith.

Rock The Street, Wall Street is proud to celebrate our incredible partners featured in American Banker’s Most Powerful Women in Finance 2024.

Special recognition to Jenny Johnson (Franklin Templeton), Anu Aiyengar (JPMorgan Chase), Thasunda Brown Duckett (TIAA), Lynn Martin (NYSE), and Adena Friedman (Nasdaq).

Their leadership and dedication continue to inspire and pave the way for the next generation of young women entering the financial industry.

https://www.americanbanker.com/list/the-most-powerful-women-in-finance-2024