Abstract: The financial landscape in India is witnessing a paradigm shift as women increasingly participate in economic activities and investment decisions. This research paper presents a comparative analysis of the investment patterns of working and non-working women in India, examining the influence of employment status on financial behavior, risk perception, and investment preferences. Drawing upon primary survey data from 225 respondents in Bangalore and secondary data from national-level studies up to August 2025, the research reveals significant differences between the two groups. Working women demonstrate higher savings capacity, greater exposure to diverse investment instruments, and stronger motivation for tax-saving investments, while non-working women exhibit a pronounced preference for traditional, safe investment avenues such as gold and real estate. The study identifies "Lack of financial education and advice" as the primary constraint across both groups, highlighting the critical need for targeted financial literacy programs. The findings contribute to the growing discourse on women's financial inclusion and offer actionable insights for policymakers, financial institutions, and educators seeking to empower women investors in India.

Keywords: Investment Patterns, Working Women, Non-Working Women, Financial Literacy, Risk Perception, Gender and Finance, India.