The Changing Face of Household Payments Among Dutch Couples

A fresh study has unmasked the financial habits of men and women in the Netherlands, taking us behind the curtains of their household payment autonomy and security. It also delves into the adoption of digital payment modes and consciousness regarding fraud. The study brings an encouraging trend amongst youngsters who are taking strides towards closing the gender gap in financial matters.

Payment Breakdown

Breaking down the division of financial responsibilities in Dutch homes, a distinctive pattern emerges. Women are often found managing day-to-day bills and social transactions. In perspective, 32% of women cohabitating with their partners are mainly in charge of grocery payments, compared to 12% of men. Conversely, men are usually seen dealing with recurring, hefty expenses like rent, mortgage, and insurances. For example, nearly half the men (47%) persistently take responsibility for paying taxes and social contributions, as against 23% of women. Importantly, the study spotlights that seven out of ten couples keep a check on each other’s payment activities, irrespective of gender.

Interestingly, the younger generation seems to be dismantling traditional payment roles. They demonstrate a more balanced approach to finance, with many couples under 35 jointly handling household payments—a sharp contrast to the older generations.

When it comes to digital payment skills, a gender split is evident, with men more inclined towards trying out new payment technologies, including contactless payments through smartwatches. However, this disparity dissolves in the youngest group, suggesting an equivalent proficiency in using varied payment tools.

Fraud Awareness

The study also lifts the veil on a worrisome discrepancy in awareness about fraud among men and women. In general, women appear to have a lesser understanding of different types of fraud, especially with malware knowledge. Defined as malicious software intended to infiltrate or harm devices, malware is recognized by 72% of men but only 47% of women. Interestingly, the study reveals a more widespread familiarity with “friend-in-need” frauds (or WhatsApp frauds), where fraudsters disguise themselves as known acquaintances in trouble. It’s noteworthy that women report encountering this type of fraud more often, while men are more frequently targeted by phishing, malware, and bank helpdesk frauds. However, the number of instances of falling victim to these frauds remains relatively low among the Dutch.