Betterment Survey Reveals AI Adoption and Generational Differences in Client-Advisor Relationships
A third annual survey by Betterment Advisor Solutions reveals that while trust in human financial advisors remains strong, client expectations are evolving significantly across generations. Younger investors increasingly use artificial intelligence for financial tasks but still prefer working with a human advisor. The report highlights generational differences: younger clients seek more proactive guidance and modern technology from their advisors, whereas older generations place less emphasis on digital experiences. The survey found that 75% of investors use AI occasionally for financial decisions, yet only 3% would replace an advisor entirely with AI tools. Advisor loyalty is strong overall, but Gen Z shows higher rates of considering or switching advisors compared to other age groups. Additionally, younger clients are more likely to switch due to poor digital experiences. Betterment's CEO emphasized that while trust in advisors remains central, the expectations for service and technology have risen significantly among younger investors. The survey included 1,001 U.S. respondents who had worked with an advisor for at least a year.
Topics: AI_in_finance client_expectations financial_advisors generational_divide