An online investment platform claims businesses like itself are winning more market share among women equity investors compared to traditional channels.

SyndicateRoom found that although more men than women would consider making equity investments through the various methods available, the gap between men and women making investments decreased among online platform users.

Men were 17% more likely to access the equity markets than women – but for those using online investment platforms, that male–female divide reduces by a fifth, suggesting the use of online investment platforms is breaking down barriers to investing.

SyndicateRoom, which surveyed 1,000 UK retail investors, claimed online platforms are closing a gender gap in equity investment.

Fifty-six per cent of women in the UK would consider making equity investments through any method, compared to 65.5% of men. But when asked about using online investment platforms, 48% of men and 42% of women said they would use an online platform.

The survey also found that almost twice as many women were dissatisfied with their broker compared to men. This was due to the pressure of high management fees paired with dwindling interest rates, according to the firm.

“It’s positive to see the shift away from traditional channels and towards online platforms – and we’re especially thrilled to see the significant impact digital platforms are having on increasing market access for female investors,” said Gonçalo de Vasconcelos, CEO and co-founder of SyndicateRoom.

©2017 funds europe