Getting help with investing
Financial professionals who can help you with investments are either
broker/dealers or
investment advisers.
There are differences between these roles. One of the most important is their obligation to you when suggesting investments. Under a new federal rule known as
Regulation Best Interest, broker/dealers may recommend financial products that are only in the best interest of their customers and they must identify any potential conflicts of interest. Regulation Best Interest is different from the fiduciary standard.
Investment advisers are held to a higher standard known as a
fiduciary duty. This means they must put your interests ahead of their own.
Before hiring a financial professional, ask family members and friends for recommendations, and make an appointment to interview the people they suggest.
Some questions to ask include:
- What training and experience do you have?
- How long have you or your firm been in business?
- Have you personally been involved with any disciplinary action or arbitration cases? If yes, how were these resolved?
- What are your fees? Will I pay you commissions, ongoing asset-based fees, or other fees?
- What procedures and protocols do you have in place to protect my personal information?
Financial professionals and finding your match
Firms and people selling investments and providing advice must be licensed. Always check their licensing status and background. You can check a license and review disciplinary history at
https://brokercheck.finra.org/.
Your investment plan
In your first meeting, your financial professional will ask you many questions to chart a course of action for you. Be prepared to provide your investment adviser with your:
- Short- and long-term goals
- The time you need to save and invest for the future
- Income, assets, and liabilities
- Age
- Risk tolerance
The majority of financial professionals put your needs and interests ahead of their own, but be on alert for these red flags:
- Ignores your goals and objectives
- Evades pointed questions
- Suggests a loan to invest
- Recommends cashing out to fund new investments
- Pressures you into making a decision
- Provides no documents and agreements