The value of personal professional financial advice to clients: A systematic quantitative literature review

Abstract

Financial advice is perceived to be inaccessible and complicated with consumers at the mercy of a sector under sustained scrutiny, raising questions about value for clients. This study systematically reviews the literature on the value of financial advice. Extant research focuses on financial benefits and lacks a holistic view of value and the factors impacting it. Gaps exist across non-financial benefits, geographic regions and over time. We call for a sustained and coordinated approach to research in this field. The findings inform consumer engagement strategies, policies concerning the uptake of professional financial advice and development of the profession.