Advisor Confidence Rises, as Does Taste for Risk

Advisors reversed course in August, reporting higher income, higher equity allocations and a jump in client risk tolerance, according to a monthly Financial Planning survey.

The Retirement Advisor Confidence Index - Financial Planning's barometer of business conditions for wealth managers - bounced to a reading of 56.1 after sliding to 53.5 for July.

Risk tolerance was once again a key factor, jumping 10 points to 57.7 after an almost 20-point slide the prior month. And although one respondent griped about a "typical summer slowdown," advisors reported a 4.6-point jump in fees charged for retirement services, reversing the previous month's drop. Other notable changes included an increase in allocations to equities and a drop in cash.

Several advisors reported an increase in 401(k) contributions. "Improving employment conditions are pushing companies that do not offer benefits to explore a more comprehensive package," one respondent said.

The survey also found investment gains were boosting client optimism and client accounts - and, in turn, fees on assets under management. "Overall, my clients are starting to feel optimistic about the stock market," one advisor said. "Even the so-called conservative investors want to take more stock risk." Yet there were notes of caution. "People's appetite for risk is much greater than seen in a very long time," said another respondent, calling the trend "somewhat concerning."

The index is composed of 10 factors - including asset allocations, investment product recommendations, economic and risk factors, taxes and planning fees - to track trends in wealth management business cycles. RACI readings of less than 50 indicate declines, while readings of more than 50 indicate expansion.

For reprint and licensing requests for this article, click here.
Investment products
MORE FROM FINANCIAL PLANNING