FINANCIAL LITERACY LEVEL AMONG WORKING WOMEN IN BENGALURU CITY – WITH RESPECT TO INVESTMENTS

Abstract

The study adopted a descriptive and analytical research design to examine the level of financial literacy and how financial literacy level varies based on socio-economic variables among working women in Bengaluru city. The study is mainly based on primary data. The data were collected from 458 working women employed in selected colleges in Bengaluru using a well-structured questionnaire. The researcher applied the statistical tools of simple percentage, mean, standard deviation, ‘t’ test, ANOVA, Cronbach’s Alpha, KMO, and Bartlett’s Test, and Factor analysis. It is concluded that working women in Bengaluru city possess a moderate level of financial literacy, with stronger proficiency in digital financial literacy, basic financial knowledge, and awareness of government schemes, while comparatively weaker understanding is observed in risk–return analysis. This indicates a need for focused financial education on risk assessment and investment evaluation. The findings reveal that status in the family and primary earning responsibility significantly influence financial literacy, whereas marital status and family type do not. Further, age, education, and family income emerge as key socio-economic determinants of financial literacy, while family size and number of earners show no significant impact. Importantly, participation in investment-related programmes, workshops, and media exposure significantly enhances financial literacy levels. Overall, the study emphasizes the importance of targeted financial literacy initiatives to strengthen informed investment decision-making and financial empowerment among working women.