TD Ameritrade Holding Corp., Betterment and Wealthfront Corp. are among robo-advisers attracting new clients as younger investors see a buying opportunity amid the market upheaval.
Since the market downturn began, TD Ameritrade has seen new-account openings for its automated investing platform jump 150% from the same period a year ago, according to an emailed statement. Wealthfront said investment account signups are about 68% higher since stocks declined, and Betterment’s first-quarter increase is 25% from a year ago.
Automated accounts are generally cheaper because they use computer algorithms rather than human money managers. They’ve been especially attractive to younger investors, who have time to grow their savings before retirement. Wealthfront said its average customer age is 32. Betterment’s is 37.
“Because so many people are talking about the market, more people are thinking about it,” said Betterment Chief Executive Jon Stein. “Our customers do have a longer time horizon than, say, the average investor -- most are investing for retirement, which is a long time from now -- 20 to 30 years.”
Charles Schwab Corp. also saw increases over the first quarter of 2019. March was one of the San Francisco-based firm’s strongest months for account growth, spokeswoman Marianne Ahlmann said.
The boost in accounts has helped compensate for withdrawals by clients who need cash as much of the economy is locked down by the coronavirus pandemic. At Social Finance Inc., liquidations at about double the normal rate have been more than offset by increases in new accounts, according to Gene Kim, a product communications manager.
Chasing productivity is one thing, but when you're cutting corners, missing details, and making mistakes, it's time to take a step back.
It is not clear how many employees will be affected, but none of the private partnership’s 20,000 financial advisors will see their jobs at risk.
The historic summer sitting saw a roughly two-thirds pass rate, with most CFP hopefuls falling in the under-40 age group.
"The greed and deception of this Ponzi scheme has resulted in the same way they have throughout history," said Daniel Brubaker, U.S. Postal Inspection Service inspector in charge.
Elsewhere, an advisor formerly with a Commonwealth affiliate firm is launching her own independent practice with an Osaic OSJ.
Stan Gregor, Chairman & CEO of Summit Financial Holdings, explores how RIAs can meet growing demand for family office-style services among mass affluent clients through tax-first planning, technology, and collaboration—positioning firms for long-term success
Chris Vizzi, Co-Founder & Partner of South Coast Investment Advisors, LLC, shares how 2025 estate tax changes—$13.99M per person—offer more than tax savings. Learn how to pass on purpose, values, and vision to unite generations and give wealth lasting meaning
