In celebration of International Women’s Month, Amerant Bank’s SVP Private Client Team Leader Becky Castillo shared valuable insights with Inside South Florida’s Cameron Dobbs. The discussion focused on women’s unique financial challenges and how to overcome them. Castillo also emphasizes how to start building wealth to better one’s financial situation.
The Financial Challenges Women Continue to Face in 2025
Despite significant progress in workplace equality, women still encounter unique financial obstacles. These obstacles can impact their long-term financial health. During her interview, Castillo highlighted two critical challenges:
“Women are still making less money than men, which slows career progression and impacts income,” Castillo explained. This persistent wage gap continues to create ripple effects throughout women’s financial lives.
Another significant challenge Castillo identified is career gaps.
“Women often take time off from work to care for children or elderly family members, which has a substantial impact. They subsequently make less money and, as a result, can’t save adequately for their future.”
These employment gaps don’t just affect immediate income—they compound over time, reducing retirement savings and investment opportunities.
Financial Resources Every Woman Should Know About
Accessing the right resources is crucial for women looking to strengthen their financial position. Castillo proudly noted that Amerant Bank, with its 45+ year history, features significant female representation. This applies to its board of directors, executive team, and general team members, who are 51% women.
“We offer financial literacy programs, personalized advice to our clients, and guidance regarding retirement and investments,” she shared.
These resources specifically address the unique financial journey women experience and provide targeted support where they need it most.
Growing Your Business: Advice for Female Entrepreneurs
Castillo emphasized the power of personal connections for women building businesses. She advises women to “Network yourself, meet people, and be authentic.”
She highlighted LinkedIn as “an invaluable tool and resource” for women entrepreneurs looking to expand their professional networks.
Her practical wisdom cuts to the heart of business growth. “The more people you meet and speak to, the more leads and referrals you will have. It’s all about who you know and who knows you.”
Starting Your Financial Journey: Foundational Steps for Success
For women at the beginning of their financial journey, Castillo offered a roadmap:
“The most important thing to remember is to know what you’re working toward,” she advised. “Set your goals, understand what you are saving for—whether it’s a vacation, college, 401(k), or life in general.”
Her practical approach continues with these actionable steps:
- Get a budget together
- Understand your savings potential
- Track your expenses carefully
- Set up automated transfers to your savings account
- Maintain discipline by not touching these savings
- Keep yourself accountable
This structured approach creates a foundation for financial success that women can build upon throughout their lives.
Taking Control of Your Financial Future
The financial challenges women face are real, but they’re not impossible. With the right resources, networking strategies, and fundamental financial practices, women can create robust financial futures despite systemic obstacles.
As Becky Castillo’s expert advice demonstrates, understanding women’s specific challenges is the first step toward overcoming them. Women can build financial security and independence by leveraging resources and implementing disciplined financial practices. This is also true for businesswomen looking to overcome financial challenges.
For more information, visit our Private Banking page.
Watch the full interview below:
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