Gender Differences in Financial Literacy among Chinese University Students and the Influential Factors

Abstract

In the midst of growing worldwide,concern over financial consumer protection, OECD member countries have developed efficient national strategies for financial education. China, one of the largest economies in the world, is not an OECD member country yet. Although China needs to evaluate its current status of financial literacy and to improve it, very little research has been done on the financial literacy of Chinese people so far. Hence this article is to examine gender differences in financial literacy among Chinese university students and to ascertain the influential factors. The major findings and their implications are summarized as follows. First, this study measured the overall financial literacy score of Chinese university students It was 56.59, which is lower than that of Korea and other OECD member countries. Second, this study found that there exist obvious gender differences in financial literacy. The survey results also revealed that in China female students usually have fewer opportunities for financial education or financial transaction experience. Third, this study identified the changing socio-economic background of China, which might exacerbate gender inequality. The Chinese economy is growing, but the gap between the rich and the poor is becoming larger. University students have more opportunities for financial activity than ever. Since such trends will continue, it is necessary to take into consideration the current socio-economic situation. This study has made important contributions to the literature on gender inequality, as well as financial education.