Gender Lens Investing

Chapter 3Womenomics Goes Global

“Gender balance isn't a battle between men and women… This is best understood in countries where the modern world is seen as a threat. Men there know—better than most—that gender equality is the dividing line between modernity and its deniers.”

—Avivah Wittenberg-Cox, November 2015¹

The economic influence and game-changing potential of women extends well beyond the United States and other developed nations. It is global in nature. In a majority of developing nations, China in particular, women have become influential drivers of economic activity and the key to future growth. It is finally dawning on many nations—but not all, for sure—that empowering and encouraging women to participate in the economy are among the best ways to promote growth, boost productivity, offset shrinking labor forces in some nations, and reduce poverty.

Meanwhile, smart, global and forward-looking companies are working hard to tap this long-ignored growth dynamic. Around the world and across various industries, many firms are busy crafting strategies to leverage the talents of women, while simultaneously designing products and services for this new consuming cohort. It is finally dawning on both states and companies that allowing and enabling women to fully engage in the economy is one of the best options available for promoting global growth and prosperity for all parties. It's that simple—yet that hard.

Despite progress in various parts of the world, treatment of girls ...