Technology Redefines Traditional Notions of Investor Behavior

• What channels of digital engagement do investors use and prefer?
• How do investors use their self-directed and advised account portals?
• Why are investors seeking third-party financial tools?
• How have the traditional lines between the advised and self-directed blurred?

In a recent survey from Javelin Strategy & Research, investors surveyed were comprised of individuals with $250,000 or more in investable assets located in the U.S. Participants were screened to make sure they had an investment advisory relationship, a self-directed account or both. The total survey sample was 1,506.  “Investor” results generally refer to the entire sample (N=1,506). “Self-directed investors” refers to those who have a self-directed brokerage account, but do not have an advised relationship with a wealth manager (N=501). “Advised investors” refers to individuals that maintain an advisory relationship with a wealth manager (N= 1,005).

Respondents were stratified across generational segments, with the largest representations across Millennials (34%), Gen X (20%) and Baby Boomers (38%). The survey covered key questions on investor behavior, financial products, technology use, the advisor relationship and robo-advisors. The research was fielded in the spring and summer of 2021. This report highlights key findings of investor behavior through the lens of a self-directed and advised clients.