Book cover of Why Women Don't Talk Money

Book

Why Women Don’t Talk Money

#1 in Women Studies at Amazon
Top 10 on Straits Times Non-Fiction Best Seller List
Bestseller at Kinokuniya

Society is uncomfortable with two factors: women in power, and women with money. But, why is that so? Despite the societal advancements the world has made since universal suffrage, women are still uncomfortable discussing money matters with their partners and peers.

In this book, 24 powerful women bare their souls to finance professionals Sharon Sim and Serena Wong about their struggles with making money and keeping it, their sometimes uncomfortable relationship with the all-powerful dollar, and how they’ve come to terms with, even celebrate, their financial and personal status in the world.

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Inspiration behind the book: A call to Financial Empowerment

Why Women Don't Talk Money authors and contributors

"Why Women Don't Talk Money" is more than just a collection of stories; it's a clarion call for women to challenge their financial narratives and foster a culture where open discussions about money are commonplace.

The authors, Sharon Sim and Serena Wong, invite readers to join the conversation, connecting with the 24 inspiring women whose stories offer insights, inspiration, and a shared journey toward financial empowerment. Reflecting on the book's creation, the authors emphasise the urgency for women to develop a comfortable relationship with money. They highlight the importance of supporting one another and finding allies in both men and women.

The book's powerful message aligns with the belief that empowering women financially benefits everyone. It echoes the need to address gender gaps in financial literacy and career progression.

It's time for women to break the taboo, recognise their worth, and confidently talk about money.

Read Extract

From Sharon Sim’s chapter — Money means freedom to craft your own future.

“Money grants you an optionality to shape how you spend your time. It's about the freedom to pursue your passions, on your terms, whenever you desire, and for as long as you choose. It's a tool that enables you to live life on your own terms and make choices that align with your values and aspirations.”

“Life is about balance. I have the same philosophy with money. Don't be obsessed with chasing the next dollar. However, having that dollar in your bank account means a lot. When you let it sit and it compounds, and you’re consistent about it, your returns could really help the family years down the road.”

“I spend on things that are important and make me happy. But I'm also a disciplined saver. It’s ingrained in me because of my childhood. I love to collect money and count the notes in the bank. It makes me feel secure. This has followed me throughout my career. I've always been careful with money. But I also understand that I have to invest to make the money grow, and compounding is one of the most powerful forces on this planet. There’s a massive difference between every dollar you save and every dollar you invest that compounds in the long run”

From Serena Wong’s chapter — Make investing personal to you

“There is no magic formula. Investing in the right people means spending time. You can do as much analysis as you want but you have to decide. That gut feel is important. This is my personal approach because if I make the choice, I also live with the consequences. So, I make no investment that I cannot lose. I invest in public markets, private investments, ventures, and in new themes, whether it was crypto a few years back or in Web3, and now in women or gender related themes. To learn, I put some money in because you need skin in the game. I’m easy on myself about this because you win some, you may lose some. Hopefully you win more than you lose.

How much is enough? “I don't have a number on what is enough. But I have a short answer to that. What's the point of having money if you don't have people around you to spend it or to enjoy it with? ‘Enough’ is personal and subjective. Rather than focus on that number, I'd focus on the process of nurturing the relationships and the people I surround myself with.

Hear from our readers

  • Thought-provoking and profound. Sharon and Serena have brilliantly captured twenty-four authentic and nuanced stories around money, coloured by family history, cultural upbringing, and personal experiences. Invaluable insights that will change the way we talk--and think--about money!

    Jayesh Parekh, Co-Founder of Sony Entertainment Television, Author of What Shall We Do with All This Money: Inspiring Perspectives on Wealth

  • This groundbreaking book amplifies women's voices and sparks empowering conversations about money. Through candid first-person narratives from women across diverse backgrounds, Sharon and Serena have curated a rich collection of experiences that bring this complex topic to light.

    Tom James, CEO of TradeFlow Cap, Author of Commodity Market Trading and Investment: A Practitioners Guide to the Markets

  • This book is a reflection of our times, and one that is crucial towards the change needed in this part of the world. It is seldom that you get a chance to unravel the perspectives and emotions of women in Asia when it comes to an otherwise hush-hush topic such as money. By gathering female trailblazers and collecting their stories, Sim and Wong give us a precious look into their minds and how they navigate money. A must-read for any woman wanting to take control of her own finances and future!

    Dawn Cher ‘SG Budget Babe’, Top finance influencer in Singapore

  • An insightful read on the different approaches that women have towards money, as well as their perspectives towards relationships, adversity, success and wealth. These women generously shared their diverse childhood experiences with money, so it will resonate regardless of your background. If you’ve felt alone and unsure in your money journey, this is a warm companion that gives you a glimpse of how other women started and thrived in theirs.

    Georgina Chang, Founder of Georgina Chang Communication

  • When women take charge of their finances, everyone benefits. This line from the Introduction of Sharon Sim and Serena Wong's new book, Why Women Don't Talk Money, says it all. It's not just the story of Serena, Sharon or the twenty-two other women featured. It's testament to their strength and resilience, an acknowledgement of the sacrifices that they made in order to be financially independent, not just for themselves, but also to support their families. These are, after all, important lessons for ALL women.

    Georgette Tan, President of United Women Singapore (2019-2024)

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