The New Brunswick Securities Commission is launching new fraud prevention and personal finance resources for women, the regulator said Tuesday.

In recognition of both Fraud Prevention Month (March) and International Women’s Day (March 8), the NBSC is launching a new program targeting female investors, which includes an online money management guide and tools to help women explore the effect that their values have on money decisions and how money affects relationships.

The commission notes that 55% of women in Canada say they have the main responsibility for their personal finances, but 71% do not have a financial plan. Their financial challenges are also complicated by the fact that they have both longer life expectancy (five years longer than men), and they typically spend more time out of the workforce, meaning they typically have a lower pension at retirement.

“Women live longer than their spouses and they take more time off from work to care for children or aging parents,” said Marissa Rignanesi, education co-ordinator at the commission. “These are unique challenges that women face and they can have a significant impact on their finances.”

On March 1, Rignanesi will make a presentation at the International Women’s Day conference in Fredericton. Other organizations can book their own free presentation by contacting the commission.

“Our resources will help women better understand and take control of their personal finances,” said Rick Hancox, executive director of the NBSC. “We want to give women the tools to be better prepared for some of life’s financial challenges.”