What to Know About Fiduciary Financial Advisers
Fiduciaries are legally bound to put your interests first, as defined by the Investment Advisers Act of 1940.
The fiduciary duty of loyalty means they must place clients’ interests above their own.
They must avoid conflicts of interest and clearly disclose any conflicts that may be present.
Not all advisers are fiduciaries—some are regulated by different laws and may operate under a lower standard of care.
Are You Working With the Right Wealth Manager?
Some firms may claim to put your interests first, but aren’t held to the fiduciary standard. Different professionals are regulated by different laws—some may even be registered in multiple ways. This means they may provide certain services under a one standard of care, but offer other services under another (potentially lower) standard.
Understanding an adviser’s experience, standard of care and forms of compensation can help you feel confident your needs are being met. Watch this video to learn key questions to help guide your search.
Clarity on Compensation Matters—Here’s Why
Here are important points to keep in mind if your adviser receives compensation from commissions on certain investment products:
Your adviser may only be required to recommend investments that are “suitable” rather than investments that are best for you
Your adviser may be paid more to sell one product over another.
Your adviser may engage in revenue-sharing agreements with fund companies that encourage the adviser to recommend certain funds
With a Fiduciary Like
Fisher Investments, You Get:
Simple, transparent
fees
Advice tailored to your
long-term goals
190,000+
individuals, families, businesses and institutions around the world
$362 Billion
in assets under management,
as of 9/30/2025
45+ Years
experience serving clients and helping them achieve their investment objectives
6,300
employees dedicated to your financial goals
