What is a Robo Advisor?

A robo advisor is a type of investment advisor that uses algorithms and software to manage your investments. They are a low-cost, automated alternative to traditional financial advisors. Robo advisors typically charge a percentage of your assets under management (AUM), which is much lower than the fees charged by traditional advisors.

How do Robo Advisors Work?

When you sign up for a robo advisor, you will be asked to answer a few questions about your financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. The robo advisor will then use this information to create a portfolio of investments that is tailored to your needs. The portfolio will be rebalanced periodically to ensure that it remains aligned with your goals.

What are the Benefits of Using a Robo Advisor?

There are many benefits to using a robo advisor, including:

  • Low fees: Robo advisors typically charge a percentage of your AUM, which is much lower than the fees charged by traditional advisors.
  • Automated management: Robo advisors are automated, so you don’t have to worry about making investment decisions yourself.
  • Portfolio customization: Robo advisors allow you to customize your portfolio to meet your specific needs.
  • Access to financial planning tools: Many robo advisors offer access to financial planning tools, such as goal-setting calculators and retirement planning tools.

What are the Drawbacks of Using a Robo Advisor?

There are a few drawbacks to using a robo advisor, including:

  • Limited access to human advisors: Some robo advisors do not offer access to human advisors, which can be a drawback for investors who want personalized advice.
  • Not suitable for all investors: Robo advisors are not suitable for all investors. If you have complex financial needs, you may need to work with a traditional advisor.

Which Robo Advisor is Right for You?

There are many robo advisors on the market, so it can be difficult to choose the right one. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a robo advisor:

  • Your investment goals: What are your financial goals? Are you saving for retirement, a down payment on a house, or something else?
  • Your risk tolerance: How much risk are you comfortable taking with your investments?
  • Your time horizon: When do you need to access your money?
  • Your budget: How much are you willing to pay in fees?

Once you have considered these factors, you can start researching different robo advisors. There are many online resources that can help you compare robo advisors, such as NerdWallet and Investopedia.

Here are some of the best robo advisors in 2023:

  • Betterment: Betterment is one of the most popular robo advisors. It offers a wide range of features, including goal-setting tools, retirement planning tools, and access to human advisors.Opens in a new windowDigital, Data, and Design Institute at HarvardBetterment robo advisor logo
  • Schwab Intelligent Portfolios: Schwab Intelligent Portfolios is a great option for investors who want a low-cost, automated investment solution. It offers a wide range of investment options and low fees.Opens in a new windowRobo-Advisor ProsSchwab Intelligent Portfolios robo advisor logo
  • Wealthfront: Wealthfront is another popular robo advisor. It offers a variety of features, including tax-loss harvesting and socially responsible investing.Opens in a new windowForbesWealthfront robo advisor logo
  • Fidelity Go: Fidelity Go is a great option for investors who want a low-cost, automated investment solution from a well-known financial institution. It offers a wide range of investment options and low fees.Opens in a new windowRobo-Advisor ProsFidelity Go robo advisor logo
  • SoFi Automated Investing: SoFi Automated Investing is a great option for investors who are looking for a low-cost, automated investment solution with access to human advisors.Opens in a new windowRobo-Advisor ProsSoFi Automated Investing robo advisor logo

Conclusion

Robo advisors are a great way to invest your money without the high fees of traditional advisors. They are a low-cost, automated alternative that can help you reach your financial goals. If you are looking for a way to invest your money, a robo advisor is a great option to consider.