Morningstar portfolio strategist Amy Arnott and senior manager research analyst Gabe Denis discuss the blurring lines between robo-advisors and traditional financial advisors. They cover topics such as the benefits of robo-advisors, limitations of digital investment advice, and the best and worst robo-advisors of 2023.
Robo-advisors offer lower fees and personalized portfolios, making them accessible and beneficial for investors starting out.
Robo-advisory services are not limited to younger investors and are being utilized by those in their late 40s and early 50s as well, indicating a broader appeal and suitability.
Deep dives
Benefits of Robo-Advisors
Robo-advisors offer lower fees compared to traditional financial advisors, making them more accessible to investors with smaller account balances. They use algorithms and questionnaires to create personalized portfolios based on an investor's goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. Robo-advisors also automatically rebalance portfolios over time.
Types of Investors Who Benefit from Robo-Advisors
Robo-advisors are beneficial for investors who are starting out and seeking guidance with their investments. They provide a middle ground option between self-directed investing on cheap brokerage platforms and comprehensive wealth management services. Contrary to expectations, not just younger investors, but also investors in their late 40s and early 50s are utilizing robo-advisory services.
Changes and Limitations of Digital Investment Advice
Some improvements have been made by robo-advisory providers based on previous assessments. These improvements include reducing fees, lowering minimums, and adding features like tax loss harvesting. However, one limitation is that digital investment advice may lack a human touch, as some investors prefer human involvement in making final investment decisions. The lines between robo-advisory and traditional wealth management are blurring, as many providers now offer access to human advisors and traditional advisors are adopting digital tools.
Morningstar Research Services’ Amy Arnott, portfolio strategist, and Gabe Denis, senior manager research analyst, discuss how the lines are blurring between robo-advisors and traditional financial advisors.