The participation of women in leadership positions in central banks, commercial banks and public investment funds increased only slightly, reaching just 16% — a figure that, despite its historic peak, is only “a few decimal points” higher than in 2024.
The total percentage of women in high-ranking positions stands at 32%, while the overall gender balance index is only 42/100, well below the level of full equality.
The US and the “domino of retreat” DEI
The United States, under the Trump administration, has led the retreat on DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) issues, eliminating related programs in federal agencies and pressuring the private sector to follow suit.
The report speaks of a “dangerous spread” of this trend to other regions, with banks in Europe and Asia starting to reduce related policies.
Indicative Data:
- 30 women now lead central banks (a historic high).
- The percentage of women in C-suite roles reached 19% (up from 15%).
- However, almost half of commercial banks do not have any women in management.
- In pension structures, the percentage of women in management decreased to 28% (from 31%).
What does this mean for the future?
With 6 of the largest US banks (Citi, Morgan Stanley, Wells Fargo, Bank of America, Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan) officially cutting their DEI programs , researchers warn that progress could be dramatically reversed in the coming years.
North America risks losing its leading position on the global map of equality, especially if the “female talent pool” continues to shrink.
📍 The article is based on OMFIF research and was published in Reuters .
