Gender equality and competition in the financial sector

Abstract

Gender equality is a major milestone for many governments especially for European Union (EU) member states. Despite of many advancement registered by many countries, for the purpose of addressing gender inequalities, there is still scope for major improvements. The aim of this study is to explore in what ways competition and competitive relations Malta’s financial sector are gendered. The study further explores whether assertions of the ‘glass ceiling’ and the gender pay gap are based on facts or fiction. A case study approach is adopted to answer the research question. Hakim’s Theory of Gender Power and Bradley’s Preference Theory are the basis of the theoretical framework, which informs this research. The semi-structured interview is the main instrument used to gather rich data from seven companies, there are few however strong impediments to career advancement. This study concludes that although gender discrimination and gender pay gaps are still highly evident in certain sectors, only a few strong impediments to career advancement exist in a small number of the seven financial companies that were interviewed. These findings are expected to prove useful to academics, policymakers, human resources (HR) practitioners and non governmental organisations (NGO’s).