UBS surveyed 1,500 men and women in marriages or partnership to learn why some men are bridges to women's financial involvement and others are barriers. Among the findings:

Seven in 10 men say they take the lead on long-term financial decisions. Overwhelmingly, they believe they know more about long-term finances than their spouse.
More than 80 percent feel it's their responsibility as husbands to make long-term financial decisions for the household.
Seven in 10 don't trust their spouse to make good decisions or they are protecting their assets from divorce.
Among men who take the lead, nine in 10 wish their spouse was more involved in long-term financial decisions.
More than 80 percent believe including women in financial planning and investment briefings would increase their engagement.
And both women and men agree that making long-term financial decisions together would increase their confidence in the future, minimize financial mistakes and reduce anxiety about money.
Currently, only about 20 percent of couples make long-term financial decisions together.
Nearly 100 percent of women and men believe women should be more involved in financial decisions.

"Women don't need to take the lead or be solely responsible for making the long-term decisions," the report concluded. "Just participate. Certainly, all women should have a say in the decisions that to a great extent will determine their future. Women have an obligation to take their seat at the money table. When they do, women unlock more opportunities to design the life and legacy they want. But men are critical to removing barriers and building bridges. That's progress for everyone."

Instant Insights /

Indifference is a trap: Women still deferring to men on financial matters

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