Celebrating Women in Finance
On International Women’s Day, it’s time to kick up some dust and celebrate the phenomenal achievements of women across all industries, especially finance. One notable name in the field is Jessica Beckstead, managing director of North America and CEO of OANDA US. In this delightful discussion, she shares her perspectives on the strides women have made in finance and what lies ahead in the journey toward gender equality.
From Politics to Trading: A Journey Begins
Jessica’s odyssey into finance was ignited during her college years while studying international politics and economics. The thrill of day trading reeled her in like a fish on a line, leading her away from the traditional stock market to a more expansive global stage. Starting as a sales trader at FXCM, she navigated the fast-paced world of finance, proving that passion and education can cometogether to yield exceptional career paths.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Women in Finance
Jessica advises women aiming for a financial career to seek out mentors—specifically, female mentors. Not just because they provide guidance, but because they create a lifeline that can help ease the bumpy road ahead. She urges newcomers to leverage established organizations dedicated to women in tech and finance, embodying the spirit of ‘paying it forward’ that is critical in diverse workplaces.
The Crucial Role of Transparency in Leadership
As Jessica climbed the corporate ladder, she identified three pivotal lessons:
- Explain the Why: Understanding the reason behind business decisions is crucial.
- Transparency is Key: Avoid sugarcoating; honesty fosters trust.
- Big Picture vs. Details: Balancing an aerial view with ground-level intricacies is essential for effective leadership.
Navigating Challenges in the Fast-Paced Finance Sector
Being a CEO in today’s finance landscape, particularly in forex and cryptocurrency, is nothing short of exhilarating and, at times, chaotic. Jessica describes the staggering $7.5 trillion daily turnover in the forex market and the need for rapid decision-making. With an ever-evolving regulatory environment, staying on top of changes while educating clients is an ongoing challenge—but one that fuels her passion for the role.
The Rise of Female Traders in Crypto
Recent findings from OANDA reveal female traders are stepping up to the crypto plate this year, outpacing their male counterparts. Jessica suggests this shift may stem from women’s more disciplined approach to trading. By emphasizing risk management tactics and providing comprehensive education, we can bolster female participation in investing.
Finding Inspiration and Aiming for Equality
Inspiration often strikes from female pioneers, and for Jessica, Sallie Krawcheck stood tall during challenging times. As CEO of OANDA, Jessica’s vision revolves around fostering equality in finance while promoting intelligent trading practices. The future shines bright for women in finance, with attendees at OANDA events gaining knowledge and insights that empower them to succeed.
