Women in financial services are earning around 30 per cent less than men, according to new research - effectively working 99 days of the year for free.

Data from eFinancialCareers’ latest Compensation Report found women in finance earned around £104,000 on average in 2025, compared with £135,000 for men in the UK. It highlights a significant gap even at higher salary levels.

Crucially, though, the pay gap is only part of a far greater issue, as the consequences stretch far beyond salaries .

In a sector where bonuses can make up a significant share of total pay, disparities often run deeper than base wages initially suggest.

The result is not just lower monthly income, but a widening gap in savings, pensions and long-term financial security .

Why the gap is bigger than it looks

The structure of pay in financial services is a key driver.…