Divorce as the Missing Chapter in the Great Wealth Transfer

The division of assets following divorce often leaves women in disadvantaged financial positions while also disrupting long-term family financial strategies. With the Great Wealth Transfer underway, it is critical for divorced women to plan rebuild their wealth.

By 2030, women in the U.S. are projected to control an estimated $34 trillion in investable assets, nearly double the amount held just a decade earlier. However, studies suggest that women—particularly married and divorced women—often report lower levels of financial confidence and literacy compared to men.

The Great Wealth Transfer is already underway. This refers to the anticipated transfer of wealth from Baby Boomers—the wealthiest generation in history—to their Gen X and Millennial heirs. As a result, many divorced women are likely to assume sole stewardship over significant financial assets. The wealth management community should be focused on empowering women to have their own financial agency, starting with ensuring they have a seat at the table and a voice that is heard.

To support their own long-term financial goals—it is essential to implement durable, forward-looking financial strategies that promote sustained growth. In addition to divorced women, widows and surviving spouses must also be prepared for sole financial responsibility, as women outlive men by 5.8 years in the US. Involving both spouses early on – not just the “CFO of the household” – is imperative to a smooth transition.

The Great Wealth Transfer is set to reshape financial planning for millions of Americans. Divorced women, along with widows, should begin preparing now for their roles as primary financial decision-makers and take proactive steps to ensure that inherited wealth is preserved and grown for future generations.  Wealth managers play a critical role in this transition by fostering inclusive, balanced dialogue that engages both spouses and avoids unintentionally isolating the non-financially dominant partner.