Report 2024 on financial advisor-investor relationship

The Report analyses the advisor-client relationship in order to detect possible information and knowledge distortions. In continuity with the 2020 edition of the survey, the advisor-client relationship was explored with reference to the specific topic of integrating so-called ESG factors (Environmental, Social, Governance) into the financial advice processes. Given the crucial role played by the industry in informing savers and promoting interest in sustainable investments among them, it is useful to analyse evidence on the dynamics at work in the advice sector and, in particular, in the interaction between professionals and their clients. The analysis, as usual, is based on a questionnaire administered – between September and December 2023 – to two samples, consisting respectively of financial advisors and their clients/investors (mirroring survey). Through a comparison between investors' opinions – as perceived by financial advisors – and the opinions actually declared by clients, the survey delves into several profiles related to: i. the interaction between professional and client, ii. the knowledge and dissemination of sustainable investments and iii. the factors that can prompt such investment options. The measure of 'alignment' between 'perceived' by professionals and 'declared' by investors offers indications as to the strengths and areas that could, on the other hand, benefit from an intervention on the information exchange or interaction modalities that would elevate the quality of the relationship, the service offered and the client's investment choices.