Gender differences in information resource usage when making retirement saving decisions

Population ageing is raising the profile of retirement incomes policy. In Australia assets of retirement savings funds are growing rapidly and fund members are assuming a greater role in determining funds\u27 investment strategies. The decision processes of fund members have not been extensively researched, however, these decisions are significant not only for members but also for employers and government. This paper provides information on retirement savings in Australia and reports on a survey of members of the Superannuation Scheme for Australian Universities (SSAU). In 1999 members of SSAU were asked to choose between a defined benefit scheme or one of four investment accumulation accounts. The paper explores gender differences in resources used to make the decision. Results indicate women were more likely to make less risky investment choices. Men were less likely to consult anyone about their decision and were more likely to use web-based information sources