Why are investors distrustful of financial advisors?

A recent study suggests that earning clients’ trust is an uphill battle

Why are investors distrustful of financial advisors?
With increasing focus placed on investor protection and upholding clients’ interests, financial advisors may be wondering whether there’s a climate of distrust in the industry. And if there is an uneasy relationship between FAs and the public, forging relationships can be difficult.

According to a recent survey by wealth management firm Personal Capital, 32% of US adults think that financial advisors would cheat an investor if given the chance, reported Financial Advisor IQ. The March poll surveyed 2,178 American adults, 1,301 of whom had investor accounts.

A majority of the respondents (70%) reported becoming more suspicious because of recent industry developments. The study also found a certain lack of knowledge of the industry; 46% of respondents incorrectly believe that US FAs are legally bound to uphold the client’s best interests above their own, and 31% were not sure.

The respondents also showed a lack of knowledge regarding what they pay for. Among those with investment accounts, a fifth know they pay for investment management services, but don’t know how much. Twenty-eight per cent don’t look at fees when choosing their account; among investors younger than 34, the percentage increases to 47%.

Independent investors may be the hardest segment to reach. Among US respondents without an advisor — a segment that reportedly comprises more than half (54%) of the American population — 45% reported not trusting them.


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