Discrimination against Women in Bank Lending: The Inequalities Women Face When Seeking Small Business Loans

Abstract

This thesis examines the issue of discrimination against women in bank lending. Discrimination against women in bank lending is a continually evolving topic in today' s society and maintains itself as a source of controversy and debate. Women, while only a short time ago did not even have a checking account or a credit card, are becoming the next big economic success in a changing world. Women assert themselves as capable and successful entrepreneurs and the statistics have supported that assertion. Nevertheless, women face several financial barriers when embarking on their business or personal ventures. Women face discrimination through the financial institution's view and preconceived stereotype of women as riskier borrowers. When applying for small business loans, women feel that they are being denied fair opportunities. Despite countless studies and declarations of statistics in their support, women continue to face difficult challenges when acquiring the necessary capital to transform their visions into concrete and profitable pursuits.