Despite turmoil in the financial services industry, trust remains high among ready-to-act affluent investors, demonstrating a real opportunity for firms to attract new customers. While only 16 percent of affluent investors anticipate opening an investment account in the near future, these ready-to-act investors report significantly higher levels of trust in the industry compared with affluent investors staying the course. These and other findings are from Investor Brand Builder, an annual Cogent Reports study by Market Strategies International.
“Locating affluent investors who are ready to act is akin to finding a needle in a haystack,” said Julia Johnston-Ketterer, senior director at Market Strategies and author of the report, in a news release. “While targeting affluent investors with purchase intent is challenging—as they are relatively few and far between—the higher level of trust they have in the industry will benefit distributor firms. Winning over potential customers will prove easier among this significantly more trusting segment.”
But once a target prospect is identified, the work doesn’t stop there. Importantly, those with purchase intent are more likely to consider themselves knowledgeable about investing and have a good grasp on the investment fees they pay. “Ready-to-act affluent investors are savvier about managing their money,” said Linda York, senior vice president at Market Strategies and head of the firm’s syndicated wealth management division, in the release. “Their needs go beyond the basics of investing and require a greater level of sophistication. Meeting these investors at the level they expect and appreciate can go a long way in helping investment firms earn their consideration and, ultimately, their business.”
The report highlights the top firms that are most likely to be considered by affluent investors opening an investment account—the firms that achieve a high level of trust among ready-to-act affluent investors and are known for providing top-notch service along with industry-leading guidance and analytics tools.
“With its consistency of message and low-cost focus, Vanguard earns the distinction of the most trusted brand among ready-to-act affluent investors,” Johnston-Ketterer added. “Even with the record inflows the firm received over the past year, Vanguard continues to deliver on its promises, strengthening the brand’s perception in the marketplace and positioning the firm well for future growth.”
Most trusted investment firms by ready-to-act affluent investors
- Vanguard
- Fidelity Investments
- USAA
- John Hancock
- Edward Jones
Source: Market Strategies International. Cogent Reports. Investor Brand Builder. November 2017.
