Why more women are struggling to celebrate International Women’s Day. 

International Women’s Day (IWD) has long been a time for celebration—a day to recognise the progress made toward gender equality. But in recent years, it has become increasingly difficult for many women to fully embrace the occasion. Around the world, IWD is no longer just about celebration; it has become a rallying cry for urgent change, as gender-based violence, financial inequality, and systemic barriers continue to persist. 

A day of celebration or a call to action 

This year, women protested and demonstrated across the globe, underscoring the stark reality that progress continues to be painfully slow and is regressing in some areas. In Istanbul, women marched against restrictive government policies. In Madrid, they rallied against gender-based violence, demanding justice for victims. In the US, demonstrators protested policies that have rolled back hard-won rights.  

These global protests highlight a growing frustration: while companies and governments often champion gender equality in words, many fail to follow through with meaningful action. Token gestures and marketing campaigns are not enough—real investment in protecting women’s rights and futures is needed. 

Why Penny is launching on IWD 

At Penny, we believe financial empowerment is one of the most powerful ways to create lasting change for women. Financial independence isn’t just about security—it’s about choice. It gives women the ability to leave unsafe situations, to say no to what doesn’t serve them, and to build the life they want on their own terms. When a woman has control over her finances, she has control over her future.  

One of the most significant ways women can build long-term wealth is through property ownership. But for many, it feels impossible because they don’t think they’ll ever be able to afford a home. When they can, the process of buying a house feels overwhelming, with home buying anxiety preventing them from taking that first step. Whether it’s understanding the first steps to buying a house, navigating the mortgage process, or uncovering the hidden costs of buying a home, financial literacy is key to making confident decisions. 

That’s why we chose IWD to release our platform—not just as a symbolic gesture, but as a tangible step toward wealth equality.  

Last year’s IWD theme, Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress, was more than just a slogan for us. It was a call to action. By providing women with practical financial tools, guides and access to vetted professionals, we are ensuring that investment in women goes beyond conversation.  

How you can take action 

Progress doesn’t happen in isolation. To accelerate change, we need collective action from individuals, businesses, and communities. Here’s how you can contribute: 

• Join Penny – Be part of a platform designed to support women’s financial empowerment. 

• Spread the word – Share Penny with the women in your life who are ready to take control of their financial future. 

• Support women-led businesses – Invest in companies that actively work to close the gender wealth gap. 

• Advocate for real change – Demand policies and initiatives that prioritise economic equality for women. 

International Women’s Day is a reminder of both how far we’ve come and how much further we need to go. This IWD, let’s commit to more than just conversation. Let’s invest in women, accelerate progress, and create a future where financial equality is a reality. 

Join us on this journey and sign up for early access to Penny 

Photo by Ehimetalor Akhere Unuabona on Unsplash