Don’t say ‘No’ to the ‘O’

A new year always brings change, and after 26 years, InvestmentNews is making a big one. 

It’s subtle, but substantial. As of Jan. 1, we are no longer spelling “adviser” with an “e” in articles and headlines. We have aligned with the common usage of the industry, our readers and media brethren by adopting “advisor” with an “o.”

We addressed the “e” vs. “o” debate before, in a March 2017 cover story by Jeff Benjamin. In that issue, our former editor made the case for sticking with “e” even though a vast majority of readers surveyed preferred “o.” As Fred Gabriel explained in his Editor’s Note, “e” is consistent with the SEC’s Investment Advisers Act of 1940: 

“We have long used the ‘e’ convention. We do it because that is how regulators refer to individuals who dole out professional advice ... We also do it because we generally adhere to the rules set forth by the AP Stylebook, which calls for the ‘e’ spelling.”

Fair enough.

But common usage throughout the industry and other media outlets is to spell “advisor” with an “o.” Times change, customs evolve, and so must InvestmentNews.

It’s been a mark of pride to adhere to the traditional spelling for 26 years, despite being an outlier. But in my three years here I’ve received emails from readers pointing out that the preferred terminology is “advisor.”

It may take us a month or so to get used to it, so please bear with us. It may seem inconsistent at times — we won’t retcon the “e” on branded content like “Niche Adviser” pre-2023 — but over time our style will even out. IN content will be easier to find via search engines, bringing a wider and even more engaged audience.

What are your thoughts?