Once you’ve decided it’s time to get some professional financial help, you may be asking yourself: “Which type of financial professional is best for me?” From a financial advisor to an investment advisor to a wealth advisor, it’s helpful to know the differences between each category of financial experts before committing to a long-term engagement. According to the CFP Board, “consumer use of financial advisors has increased significantly in the last five years,” going up approximately 10 percent in the span of just five years.1 

When advisors were surveyed about the benefits of cash flow management and budgeting, nearly 100 percent of them stated that their clients became more confident and secure about their financial futures after utilizing the service.2 However, “consumer use” does not necessarily mean every age group of consumers is jumping on the bandwagon. The Society of Actuaries found that “only 52 percent of pre-retirees and 44 percent of retirees consult a financial planner or advisor.”3  Before you make a final decision, we’ve rounded up some of the key differentiators between each group so you can sign your contract with confidence.

Term #1: Financial Advisor

The most used term, a financial advisor is someone you helps you with different aspects of your financial life. This might include planning for and transitioning to retirement, investment advice, life insurance, 401(k) plans, IRAs, budgeting and more. Every financial advisor is different in what specific areas they specialize in and what services they provide, so if you are looking for help in one particular area, it is always best to ask. 

Financial advisors can be compensated in a variety of ways – they can be fee-based, fee-only, or charge a percentage based on your total AUM (assets under management). 

Term #2: Investment Advisor

An investment advisor is a professional who focuses on just that – your investments. An investment advisor will manage your portfolio with the goal to get the highest rate of return that you can over the long run. Before they begin designing your portfolio, investment advisors should evaluate your current financial picture, as well as determine your optimal risk tolerance, which may involve you filling out a questionnaire. 

After discussing your needs and goals with your advisor, they typically will then present an investment strategy tailored according to the unique aspects of your life. Some investment advisors actually manage your money and do the investing for you, other simple “advise” on what you should do, leaving you to implement the strategies on your own. 

Term #3: Wealth Advisor

With more money comes more responsibility, and wealth advisors’ duties are catered specifically to those who have a decently-sized estate, often labeled as high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals. Also known as wealth managers, some of the topics wealth advisors cover include risk management and estate planning.

Keep in mind, many firms may categorize their own business under more than one of these labels (they might say they are a “financial advisor” as well as a “wealth advisor”. Of course, the best course of action is always to contact any financial professional you are interested in working with directly and learn more about their business model and what services they provide to their clients. 

Franklin Madison Advisors, Inc. (“FMA”), is a registered investment adviser firm with its registration and principal place of business in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Registration of an investment adviser does not imply a certain level of skill or training. FMA is in compliance with the current notice filing requirements imposed upon registered investment advisers by those states in which FMA maintains clients.

This commentary and forecasts are limited to the dissemination of general information pertaining to Franklin Madison Advisors’ investment advisory services and general economic and market conditions and are subject to change without notice. The information contained herein is not intended to be personal, legal, investment or tax advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any security or engage in a particular investment strategy. For additional information about FMA, including fees and services, please contact FMA or refer to the Investment Adviser Public disclosures.

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