Why Women Must Get Ready for the Great Wealth Transfer
By Melinda Adams, Financial Advisor, CEPA®
This month, as I blow out another birthday candle, I find myself thinking less about age—and more about legacy. Not just mine, but ours. Because right now, something big is happening in the world of money. Something that puts women squarely in the spotlight.
It’s called the Great Wealth Transfer, and it’s no small shift. Over the next two decades, more than $84 trillion will pass from one generation to the next—with nearly $12 trillion changing hands by 2030 alone (“U.S. Wealth Transfer Report 2023,” Cerulli Associates). And guess what? By 2030, women are expected to control two-thirds of all U.S. wealth (McKinsey & Company, “Women as the next wave of growth in U.S. wealth management,” 2020).
That’s right. The future of wealth is female. And it’s coming fast.
The Money Shift No One Talks About Enough
This is about more than inheritance. It’s about homes, investment accounts, businesses, and charitable funds—all being passed to daughters, wives, mothers, and sisters. Women will inherit, manage, and grow this wealth. Some will sell businesses; others will invest in their dreams or give generously to causes they love.
But here’s the truth: many women still don’t feel ready for that level of financial responsibility. In fact, studies show 70% of women change financial advisors within a year of their spouse’s passing (Fidelity Investments, “Why Women Leave Their Financial Advisors,” 2021). Why? Because they didn’t feel seen, heard, or included in the planning.
That must change. And the good news? It’s already starting to.
Wealth Is Power—And Women Are Powerful
We’re not just talking about money here. We’re talking about confidence, choice, and impact. About women being in the driver’s seat of their financial future—and steering it toward what matters most: security, freedom, family, generosity, and joy.
Whether you’re managing your family’s finances now or still figuring out where to begin, this is your moment. The wealth is coming. And so is your chance to lead.
Three Bold (But Doable) Money Moves to Make Now
Let’s make this exciting, not overwhelming. Here are three ways to step into your power—starting today:
1. Curate Your Dream Team
You don’t have to figure this out alone. Surround yourself with a great financial advisor, CPA, and estate attorney. Choose people who explain things clearly, respect your goals, and make you feel empowered—not intimidated.
2. Learn the Language—One Word at a Time
You don’t need to be a finance guru. Just get curious. Learn the basics of investing, risk, and long-term growth. Start a money podcast. Read one article a week. Ask questions until it clicks.
3. Make (or Update) Your Plan
Wills, healthcare directives, and powers of attorney aren’t just for the ultra-wealthy. They’re love letters to your family. If you own a business, make sure you’ve got a plan for that, too.
Own It, Build It, Live It
This year, I’m training for my first triathlon. Some days, I feel strong. Some days, I question my sanity. But every day, I remind myself: this is what growth feels like. It’s the same with your money. You don’t have to have it all figured out—you just have to show up, stay curious, and keep going.
The Great Wealth Transfer is not just a shift in money—it’s a shift in momentum. And women like you are leading the way.
You hold the future. Let’s make it powerful, purpose-driven, and wildly fulfilling.
A passionate financial advisor, and advocate for intentional living, Melinda Adams empowers individuals to align their finances with their dreams. With extensive experience in business consulting and financial planning, she’s dedicated to helping others create a life of purpose and joy.
Email Melinda at melindaadams@financialguide.com or contact her at (210) 796-9549. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/melindaadams/
Melinda Adams is a registered representative of and offers securities, investment advisory and financial planning services through MML Investors Services, LLC, member SIPC (www.sipc.org). Supervisory office: 10101 Reunion Place Suite 300, San Antonio, TX 78216 (210) 342-4141. M&T Financial Partners is not a subsidiary or affiliate of MML Investors Services, LLC, or its affiliated companies. CRN202806-8825475
Sources:
1. Cerulli Associates, “U.S. Wealth Transfer Report 2023”
2. McKinsey & Company, “Women as the next wave of growth in U.S. wealth management,” 2020
3. Fidelity Investments, “Why Women Leave Their Financial Advisors,” 2021
