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Affluent women are becoming a sought-after segment of the market for financial advisors, estate planners and all the organizations seeking contributions. Much is being said and written about how
to appeal to women and to be successful in winning and retaining their business. This is a good thing if it leads to financial people treating women with respect and accomodating the way that women
process information and make decisions. However, this white-hot spotlight of attention makes it more important than ever for women to be confident and competent in the way they handle their finances.
Nationwide Financial Services, Inc. of Columbus, Ohio, recently did a survey of women whose annual income exceeds $100,000. The survey found that many women are primarily interested in the end result of
an investment or a contribution, and only secondarily in the financial details. It also found that women are interested in gathering information and then discussing it with friends and family before they
make decisions.
Royal Treasure believes that an abundance of knowledge, tools and peer networks enable women to make good legal, investment and giving decisions. It also makes them less vulnerable to inept or
unscrupulous advisors, therefore enabling them to be good stewards of all that God has entrusted to them. Discussion and learning with peers is one of the essential features of each Royal Treasure
Symposium. A popular topic at each symposium is how to do appropriate due diligence on a ministry. We believe that when considering a contribution to a non-profit organization, it is certainly
appropriate to research their ministry, personnel and operating philosophy, etc. But it is equally important to request that they send financial information such as an audited financial statement or an
informational tax return (called a Form 990). Most organizations are required by law to provide this information on request.
Even though most donors aren't clamoring for this financial information, we believe it is just good stewardship on the part of both donor and organization. It maintains the reputation of the Christian
organization as being above reproach and is evidence that God's money is being handled appropriately. Transparency encourages greater confidence in non-profit organizations, which should result in
greater giving to Christian ministries.
We invite you to attend our upcoming symposium March 13-16 and learn together with a network of peers.
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