What Is Wealth Management?
Combining additional financial services, wealth management is an investment advisory service that caters to the requirements of affluent customers. The advisor obtains information regarding the client's desires and particular circumstances through a consultative process. Subsequently, the advisor customizes an individualized strategy by integrating a variety of financial products and services.
In wealth management, a holistic approach is frequently adopted. A diverse array of services, including investment advisory, estate planning, accounting, retirement, and tax services, may be rendered in order to address the intricate requirements of a client. Although fee structures for comprehensive wealth management services may differ, in general, charges are calculated in relation to the assets under management (AUM) of the client.
A Comprehension of Wealth Management
The scope of wealth management extends beyond investment advice. It can encompass all aspects of a person’s financial existence. Perhaps high-net-worth individuals would benefit more from a comprehensive approach as opposed to endeavoring to incorporate various pieces of advice and products from multiple professionals. In this method, a wealth manager coordinates the services required to manage their clients’ assets, along with developing a strategic plan for their current and future needs—whether it is will and trust services or business succession plans.
Many wealth managers can provide services in any aspect of the financial field, but some choose to specialize in particular areas, such as cross-border wealth management. This may be founded on the expertise of a specific wealth manager, or the primary concentration of the business within which the wealth manager operates.
In certain instances, a wealth management advisor may have to coordinate input from outside financial specialists, as well as the client’s own service professionals (for example, an attorney or accountant) to construct the optimal strategy to benefit the client. Some wealth managers also provide banking services or advice on philanthropic activities.
Wealth Management Example
Generally speaking, wealth management offices have a team of experts and specialists available to provide advice across different disciplines. For instance, consider a client who has $2 million in investable assets—in addition to a trust for their grandchildren—and a companion who has recently passed away. A wealth management office would not only invest these funds in a discretionary account but also provide will and trust services required for tax minimization and estate planning.
Wealth management advisors in the direct employ of an investment firm may have more knowledge in the area of investment strategy, while those who work for a large bank may concentrate on the management of trusts and available credit options, overall estate planning, or insurance options. In essence, expertise may fluctuate across distinct firms.
Wealth Management Business Structures
Wealth managers may operate as part of either a small-scale business or a larger corporation, one generally associated with the finance industry. Depending on the business, wealth managers may function under different titles, including financial consultant or financial advisor. A client may receive services from a single designated wealth manager or may have access to members of a specified wealth management team.
Fees for a Wealth Manager
Advisors can charge for their services in several methods. Some work as fee-only advisors and charge an annual, hourly, or preset fee. Some work on commission and are paid through the investments that they sell. Fee-based advisors earn a combination of a fee plus commissions on the investment products that they sell.
A recent survey of financial advisors reveals the median advisory fee (up to $1 million AUM) is just around 1%. Advisory HQ News Corp. "What Are the Average Financial Advisor Fees & Investment Fees Being Charged in 2021?" However, some advisors charge more, particularly on lesser account balances. Individuals with larger balances can often pay markedly less, with the median AUM fee declining as assets increase.
Credentials for Wealth Managers
You should examine the credentials of a professional to see which designation and training might best suit your requirements and situation. The top three professional advisor credentials are Certified Financial Planner, Chartered Financial Analyst, and Personal Financial Specialist. Many websites for professional certifying organizations allow you to evaluate if a member is in good standing or has had disciplinary actions or complaints.
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) has a tool that explains professional designations. You can also see whether the issuing organization requires continuing education, takes complaints, or has a method for you to confirm who holds the credentials. Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. "Professional Designations."
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Strategies of a Wealth Manager
The wealth manager begins by devising a plan that will maintain and increase a client’s wealth based on their financial situation, objectives, and risk tolerance.
Importantly, each element of a client’s financial picture, whether it is tax planning or wills and estates, are coordinated together to safeguard the wealth of the client. This may coincide with financial projections and retirement planning.
After the original plan is developed, the manager meets regularly with clients to update objectives, assess, and rebalance the financial portfolio. At the same time, they may investigate whether additional services are required, with the ultimate aim being to remain in the client’s service throughout their lifespan.
What Do Wealth Managers Earn?
According to Indeed, the average salary for a wealth manager in the United States in 2022 was $79,395.
Is a Wealth Manager the Same as a Financial Planner?
While some financial professionals are both wealth managers and planners, a key distinction between financial planners and wealth managers is that the letter are focused on assets and investments, while planners also consider everyday household finances, insurance requirements, and so on.
How Much Money Does the Wealth Management Industry Manage?
As of 2020, it is estimated that the wealth management industry had AUM of upwards of $112 trillion globally. This figure is expected to increase to $145.4 trillion by the year 2025.
