Optimism among American investors has held up amid economic uncertainties, with a significant majority of CFP professionals observing a more positive outlook for 2024 compared to the previous year, according to the CFP Board.
A new survey by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. found that six out of seven CFP professionals report their clients are looking forward to the future with optimism, despite challenges posed by the economic environment and anticipation of the US elections.
The 2024 CFP Professionals Financial Outlook Survey, part of the CFP's consumer sentiment survey series, indicates a notable shift in investor sentiment, with 48 percent of professionals citing an uptick in optimism among their clients compared to 2023.
The influence of the upcoming election is undeniable, with 83 percent of those surveyed acknowledging that the 2024 election cycle is expected to affect financial decision-making to some degree.
"The value of working with a competent, ethical financial advisor is even higher during times of economic uncertainty,” said Kevin R. Keller, CEO of the CFP Board.
The survey also shed light on the investment behavior of clients, with nearly 60 percent of CFPs noting their clients are more inclined to invest or increase their investments as a result of their positive financial outlook.
Looking at clients’ planning priorities, the CFPs surveyed said their clients were interested in discussing retirement readiness (77 percent), girding for inflation (60 percent), and understanding the national economy (56 percent).
To help clients adapt, three-fifths of the advisors polled said they recommend strategies such as developing or revising financial plans (62 percent) and prioritizing retirement savings (60 percent).
In response to the current high-interest-rate environment, 41 percent of professionals suggest moving funds into high-yield investment accounts, such as money market funds and certificates of deposit. Meanwhile, three-tenths (28 percent) are advising clients to minimize exposure to high-interest debt.
Despite the general optimism – with 43 percent of CFP professionals saying their clients are planning vacations – the survey revealed a cautious stance on major financial decisions, with a significant portion of clients putting off life milestones like purchasing a home or starting a family.
The survey also hints at rising demand for competent and ethical financial advice, with seven in ten Certified Financial Planner professionals expecting to grow their client bases in this year.
"CFP professionals are a port in the storm for anxious investors,” said Kevin Roth, managing director of research at the CFP Board. “Whether a client is contemplating a major life change or a relaxing vacation, the trusted advice of a CFP professional is more important than ever."
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