EXPLORING INVESTMENT ATTITUDES OF FEMALE INDUSTRIAL WORKERS: EVIDENCE FROM HEALTHCARE PRODUCT MANUFACTURING FACTORIES IN THIRUVANANTHAPURAM

Abstract

Investment behavior reflects the socio-economic and psychological characteristics of individuals. Women employees, especially in industrial sectors, often contribute significantly to household financial management, yet their investment decisions are influenced by unique factors such as income stability, family responsibilities, and financial literacy. This study explores the investment attitudes of female workers employed in healthcare product manufacturing factories in Thiruvananthapuram. A descriptive research design was employed using primary data collected from 100 respondents through structured questionnaires. The findings reveal that female workers prefer safe and traditional investments like gold, recurring deposits, and chit funds rather than risky options like equities or mutual funds. Financial literacy, cultural influences, and family obligations were found to be major determinants of their investment choices. The study concludes with recommendations for improving financial awareness and designing women-centric investment opportunities to foster greater participation in diversified investment avenues.