86%

Of clients say they feel more in control of their finances after receiving advice.

Rethinking the Adviser Role

Common wisdom among financial advisers is that their role is to guide clients away from poor decisions and help them avoid costly mistakes during market volatility.

But the research shows clients don’t want to feel protected, they are more motivated by feeling confident about their finances and in control of their financial future.

momentum lines
momentum lines
85% of advisers say helping clients stay disciplined during market volatility is an important aspect of a financial adviser. Compared to just 67% of advised clients.
70% of advisers strongly agree that avoiding costly mistakes during volatility is a financial benefit of advice. Compared to just 28% of advised clients.
89% of clients say they are more confident about their finances after receiving advice, ranking it the #1 financial benefit. Advisers ranked it #3.

Insights

Confidence in achieving long-term goals

 

What this means for you


Advisers may find it valuable to move the conversation beyond simply protecting clients from poor decisions, towards equipping them with the skills and confidence to make their own. Here are three approaches that could help clients feel more empowered and in control.

 

One

Reframe
your pitch

Your behavioural coaching will help them feel more in control of their finances. Shift from 'we'll protect you from making mistakes during market volatility' to 'we'll help turn emotional reactions into rational and controlled decisions'.

 

Two

Elevate emotional
benefits

Put peace of mind and empowerment at the centre of your value proposition. 'We don't just manage your portfolio, we reduce financial stress and give you the confidence you'll be on the right track'.

 

Three

Inspire confidence through education

Use every interaction to build your client's financial capability. When clients understand how decisions are made, they feel more engaged and confident in the path ahead.

 

From research to results

Book a meeting with your Regional Manager to get access to our exclusive Practical Value of an Adviser Guide, a step-by-step playbook to help you deliver more value to your clients across all the dimensions of advice.

Book a meeting with your Regional Manager
From research to results
 

What clients are saying

 

Next up

Breaking through the barriers to advice.
What's holding clients back and how to win them over.

Now
live

Want to download the report?

Fill out the form on the 'Value of an Adviser' page to access the report

Russell Investments' ownership is composed of a majority stake held by funds managed by TA Associates Management, L.P., with a significant minority stake held by funds managed by Reverence Capital Partners, L.P. Certain of Russell Investments' employees and Hamilton Lane Advisors, LLC also hold minority, non-controlling, ownership stakes.

On July 2, 2026, Russell Investments Group, Ltd. (“Russell Investments”) entered into a definitive agreement and plan of merger (the “Transaction”) pursuant to which Russell Investments will be acquired by a consortium led by B Capital Group Management, L.P. that includes California Public Employees Retirement System. The Transaction is expected to close by the end of Q1 2027, subject to the receipt of regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.

© Russell Investments Group, LLC. 1995-2026. All rights reserved. This material is proprietary and may not be reproduced, transferred, or distributed in any form without prior written permission from Russell Investments. It is delivered on an "as is" basis without warranty.