Nature's Matriarchs: Inspiring Women in Leadership

"A strong woman understands that the gifts such as logic, decisiveness, and strength are just as feminine as intuition and emotional connection. She values and uses all of her gifts.” – Nancy Rathburn

International Women's Day marks another year of celebrating the remarkable achievements of women around the globe. Yet, amidst the festivities and accolades, there persists a lingering debate, often asserting that patriarchal norms are merely the dictates of nature, beyond the influence of societal mindsets. However, nature itself presents us with awe-inspiring examples of matriarchal societies in the animal kingdom, challenging this very notion.

Animal species such as Lions, Elephants, Bonobos, Whales, and hyenas exhibit female leadership, defying the conventional patriarchal narrative. These matriarchs not only lead their groups but also play crucial roles in decision-making, conflict resolution, and maintaining social harmony. In African Elephants, for instance, the herd is led by the oldest female elephant, who possesses extensive knowledge of the landscape, migration routes, and water sources essential for the clan's survival. Similarly, Killer Whales exemplify the importance of maternal guidance in sustaining the species, as mothers play a crucial role in steering their offspring away from perilous situations. Contrastingly, in human societies like ours, women often bear the burden of societal norms, such as the expectation to change their surname after marriage. However, nature once again provides a contrasting example through Hyenas, where the highest-ranking female leads the group, responsible for defending their territory and maintaining social dynamics.

Drawing parallels with human female leaders, we find them characterized by empathy, intuition, sensitivity, and a knack for fostering camaraderie within their teams. The participation of women in the workforce transcends mere empowerment; it is essential for structuring a more equitable society and shaping the mindsets of future generations. In India's burgeoning tech sector, for instance, the number of women in the workforce has doubled to over 20 lakhs, constituting 36 per cent of the entire workforce, a testament to the industry's evolution.

Consider the visionary approach of Alibaba's Jack Ma, who has long prioritized gender diversity by consciously hiring 34% more women than men in his leadership teams. Ma recognizes the unique skill set that women bring to the table, including a capacity for compassion, empathy, and love intelligence. Studies consistently affirm that companies with more women in leadership positions outperform their counterparts on various metrics, from higher returns on investment to enhanced public image.

Moreover, as the business landscape grows increasingly complex, with a greater emphasis on building lasting customer relationships, women's inclination towards learning becomes a valuable asset. In fact, women already represent a majority of college and master's degree graduates, with approximately 57% of college graduates and 62% of master's degree graduates being women. This trend reflects their commitment to continuous growth and education, positioning them as key contributors to the evolving business environment.

Globally, women are projected to control more than 32% of total wealth, exceeding $72 trillion, with this figure expected to rise further. As women's influence in financial decision-making expands, their investment choices and approach to legacy and philanthropy will shape the future trajectory of economies worldwide. Richard Thaler's Nobel Prize-winning work in behavioral economics sheds light on the distinct investing behavior of women, who tend to be risk-averse in gains but risk-seeking during losses—a phenomenon with significant implications for investment strategies. Goal-based investing, a "nudge" towards prudent decision-making, mitigates the risk of impulsive actions, thereby aligning investments with long-term objectives. In the Indian asset management industry, women fund managers now oversee 13% of mutual fund assets, marking a significant improvement over the past decade.

Reflecting on everyday scenarios, such as choosing from a restaurant menu, reveals subtle yet significant differences in decision-making between genders. While man may decide swiftly, the other may meticulously weigh various factors before making a choice. This nuanced approach, characterized by holistic thinking, is inherent to women and can be leveraged in investing to identify patterns and make informed decisions.

In conclusion, the celebration of International Women's Day extends beyond mere acknowledgment; it serves as a reminder of the invaluable contributions of women to society, both past, and present. By recognizing and harnessing the inherent strengths of women, we pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future.

Manish Bhandari, CIIA, founder of Vallum Capital Advisors, a Portfolio Management firm managing equity investments for Family Offices and HNIs, serves as a Board Member of the Association of Portfolio Managers in India. Based in Mumbai, he can be reached at [email protected].

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