Financial literacy : an interface between financial information and decision-makers in organisations

Abstract

Individuals' decisions and subsequent actions flow from their understanding of the surroundings in which they operate. In order to facilitate economic and financial sustainability, individuals need the cognitive ability to understand financial information in the context of these surroundings. The intellectual construct inferred from this encompassing and complex process is financial literacy. The term 'financial literacy' consists of the words 'financial' and 'literacy', both of which are used to represent a myriad of issues that can easily lose their relevance when used together. This article addresses the interface (or gap) between information (matter) and decision-making (mind). The dualism of financial literacy, matter and mind, is explored by means of a literature review and an empirical survey. From the survey, respondents' perceptions of the financial literacy construct were gleaned. Awareness of financial literacy from the interface perspective promotes a deeper understanding of the concept. Recommendations are made to assist organisations and individuals to overcome financial uncertainties.