Concluding his keynote, Sahar conveyed a message of empowerment, encouraging students to remain curious and committed to lifelong learning.
Education today extends beyond traditional subjects, serving as a catalyst for ethical decision-making, social responsibility, and women’s empowerment. As societies increasingly emphasize sustainability and transparency, educational institutions bear the responsibility to nurture future leaders who prioritize integrity and social responsibility alongside success. This article examines how education in financial literacy and ethics empowers women to make informed decisions that enhance both their lives and their communities.
Yaseen Sahar, a recognized leader in investment management, recently delivered a keynote address at Ethiraj College for Women’s Annual Association Meet, FINANCIA 2024, hosted by the Department of B. Com Accounting and Finance. This year’s theme, “The Ethical Emporium: Where Money Meets Morals,” aligns perfectly with Sahar’s core philosophy—advocating for ethical finance as a cornerstone for building a sustainable financial future.
During his keynote speech, titled “The Ethical Foundations of Financial Prosperity,” Sahar highlighted the critical need to integrate ethics into every financial decision. “Ethical finance isn’t just about avoiding negative impacts it’s about making responsible choices that lead to positive social outcomes,” he emphasized. He explained how environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations are gaining traction globally, with nearly 70% of investors factoring these into their financial decisions. ESG assets are projected to reach $50 trillion by 2025, signifying a major shift towards responsible investing.
Sahar’s insights resonate with the growing demands of today’s investors, particularly among Gen Z, who prioritize transparency and sustainability in their financial dealings. He stated, “Ethical finance is not a trend; it’s a necessity for the long-term stability and trust in our financial systems.”
Beyond ethics, Sahar underscored the importance of promoting financial literacy, especially among women. He urged educational institutions to take a proactive role in this initiative, emphasizing that financial independence begins with knowledge. “By equipping women with the knowledge and tools to navigate financial markets, we empower individuals and entire communities to thrive.” he asserted.
Sahar also highlighted the significant growth of India’s mutual fund industry, which reached a record ₹45.4 trillion ($560 billion) in assets under management by August 2024. Despite this growth, a study by SEBI revealed that less than 33% of Indian women have a formal understanding of financial products, underscoring the need for targeted educational efforts. He stressed that increasing women’s participation in financial markets could further accelerate economic growth, advocating for inclusive financial literacy programs to ensure that women from all backgrounds are well-informed about their options.
As an advocate for gender equality in the financial sector, Sahar praised institutions like Ethiraj College for fostering an environment that nurtures women leaders. However, he acknowledged the ongoing challenges women face in securing leadership roles, citing a 2023 McKinsey report that revealed only 7% of top executive positions in India’s financial sector are held by women. “Diverse leadership brings diverse perspectives, which in turn leads to better decision-making and innovation in finance,” Sahar said, urging active measures to close this gender gap.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Following his keynote, Sahar engaged with students in a lively Q&A session, encouraging them to embrace curiosity and continuous learning. “The responsibility to build an ethical financial future rest with this generation, and I have no doubt they will rise to the occasion,” he concluded, “and I’m confident they will rise to the challenge.”
Sahar’s participation in FINANCIA 2024 reflects his deep commitment to advancing ethical financial practices and fostering leadership among women. His thought leadership continues to influence the financial landscape in India as he champions sustainable, ethical investment strategies and drives wealth creation through mutual funds.
As the world shifts towards greater transparency and accountability, education plays a crucial role in shaping future leaders especially women who are guided by ethical principles. Financial literacy has emerged as a powerful force for personal empowerment and societal transformation, enabling women to make informed decisions that benefit themselves and their communities.
Addressing over 500 students, faculty, and industry professionals, Sahar’s keynote, “The Ethical Foundations of Financial Prosperity,” delved into the growing need for ethical practices in financial systems. “Ethical finance is not just about preventing harm; it’s about making choices that actively contribute to a better world,” he explained. With nearly 70% of investors now considering ESG factors in their decision-making, Sahar shared insights into the projected growth of ESG-focused assets, expected to reach $50 trillion by 2025.
Beyond advocating for ethical finance, Sahar passionately discussed the critical role of financial literacy in empowering women. “Education is the key to financial independence,” he stated, calling on prestigious institutions like Ethiraj College to lead in promoting financial knowledge among women. Noting the rapid growth of India’s mutual fund industry, Sahar emphasized that women’s participation in financial markets could unlock immense economic potential for the country.
Concluding his keynote, Sahar conveyed a message of empowerment, encouraging students to remain curious and committed to lifelong learning. “The future of finance depends on ethical, inclusive leadership, and it’s up to this generation to lead the way,” he said.
Yaseen Sahar’s insightful keynote at Ethiraj College’s FINANCIA 2024 underscores the vital role of ethical education in shaping empowered, responsible leaders especially women. By promoting financial literacy and advocating for gender diversity in finance, Sahar emphasizes the importance of integrating ethical principles into decision-making processes that foster personal growth and contribute to societal well-being. As we move forward, education’s role in nurturing both ethical integrity and leadership will remain crucial in building a sustainable and inclusive future.