As we close out the quarter, I want to share a few reflections and signals I’m hearing across the industry. These conversations are shaping the future of finance and reaffirming the importance of our work at RTSWS.
At RTSWS, we view this shift as a call to action. We are preparing the next generation, especially young women, to enter the capital markets with confidence, clarity and strong fundamentals. The business case is clear: firms that invest in talent early, build trust through empathy and education, and evolve with their clients will be the ones who lead.
This quarter, I’ve been meeting with leaders across the industry, at conferences and in conversations with advisors, firm leaders and innovators across finance. A few consistent themes have emerged:
- There is a growing need for earlier and deeper education, for students, AND for advisors navigating alternatives, private credit, and AI-driven portfolios.
- Technology is a tool, but not a replacement. While AI can help teams scale, human judgment and empathy remain essential.
- Pop culture continues to shape perceptions of finance. We often say “meet them where they are” in classrooms, with friends, in community settings, and increasingly through virtual sessions with visible role models. This visibility matters.
Wealth represents more than performance metrics. It represents safety, stability, and long-term security. Women often live longer, take on caregiving roles, and still face persistent pay gaps. Meeting these realities with intention benefits everyone: clients, advisors, and firms. That is why we are working with sponsors and volunteers across the industry to reimagine pathways to careers in finance. Together, we are building confidence through curriculum, mentorship and a supportive community, both in person and online.
We have launched a new virtual leadership series featuring female portfolio managers and investors across the financial spectrum. These sessions give students a chance to hear directly from women in the field, ask questions, and gain real insight into the opportunities ahead. I enjoy leading these conversations and look forward to sharing more in future updates.
In the meantime, we continue to build Financial & Investment literacy before college and support students through internships and into early career roles.
Ashley Leftwich, RTSWS CEO
