Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers has emphasized the critical need for women to actively engage in retirement planning. This call to action was made during the 2025 Bloom Weekend, an event organized by Stanbic IBTC Bank and dedicated to empowering women in leadership, financial independence, and entrepreneurship. The pension firm leveraged this platform to launch the fifth edition of their Ladies at the Table Empowerment Summit (LATTES), an initiative designed to create a supportive environment for women to discuss their financial futures. LATTES has become a vital forum for addressing the unique financial challenges and opportunities faced by women, fostering open conversations about money management, career aspirations, the balance of motherhood and career, and personal identity. Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers believes that empowering women to plan their financial futures strengthens families, communities, and future generations.
The core message delivered by Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers was the importance of proactive financial planning, particularly concerning pensions. This message resonated throughout the Bloom Weekend and the LATTES summit, underscoring the company’s commitment to supporting women on their journey to financial security. The firm stressed that planning for retirement shouldn’t be an afterthought but rather an ongoing process, regardless of career path or income level. Addressing common fears and misconceptions surrounding pensions, Stanbic IBTC highlighted its commitment to financial literacy, providing educational resources, tools, and tailored products to help women make informed decisions about their financial futures. The company’s emphasis on education and empowerment seeks to dispel myths and anxieties surrounding pensions, encouraging women to take control of their financial well-being.
A key component of Stanbic IBTC’s approach is acknowledging the diverse circumstances of women. Recognizing that not all women work in traditional employment settings, the firm has developed flexible pension products such as Pension Flex (formerly micro pension). This product caters to women in the informal sector or those pursuing entrepreneurial ventures, allowing them to contribute to their retirement savings in a way that aligns with their unique income streams and work patterns. This inclusivity ensures that all women, regardless of their employment status, have access to the tools and resources they need to secure their financial futures. The goal is to provide a pathway for every woman to achieve financial confidence, from the beginning of their careers to their retirement and beyond.
The Pension Flex product demonstrates Stanbic IBTC’s commitment to adapting its services to meet the evolving needs of women. By offering flexible and accessible pension solutions, the company is breaking down barriers that traditionally prevent women, especially those in informal employment, from engaging in long-term financial planning. This tailored approach ensures that women can participate in pension schemes that are relevant to their individual circumstances, promoting greater financial inclusion and security across different demographics. The firm recognizes that empowering women financially contributes to the overall economic strength of families and communities.
The focus on financial literacy goes beyond simply providing information; it’s about empowering women to understand and manage their finances effectively. Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers believes that by equipping women with the knowledge and tools they need, they can make informed decisions about their financial future, building a stronger sense of financial confidence and control. This empowerment extends beyond individual financial well-being, impacting families and communities positively. The company’s message emphasizes the crucial role of financial planning in ensuring a secure and fulfilling retirement for women, promoting a future where women can thrive financially.
The empowerment message was further reinforced by Mrs. Bunmi Dayo-Olagunju, Deputy Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Bank. She highlighted the positive impact of the bank’s empowerment initiatives, noting significant improvements in women’s financial literacy. She pointed to the growing trend of women entrepreneurs separating their personal and business finances, a key indicator of improved financial management practices. Furthermore, she noted that women are increasingly approaching banks for funding and that SMEs are recognizing the importance of strategic planning even at the nano level. These developments indicate a growing awareness among women of the importance of sound financial practices and the resources available to support their entrepreneurial endeavors. Overall, the message conveyed throughout the Bloom Weekend and the LATTES summit was one of empowerment, encouraging women to take proactive steps towards financial security and achieve their full potential.
