I take it from this forum that many people here direct their own investments. Even if you don't go through an investment advisor though, what sorts of qualities do you or would you look for in an advisor? What credentials would you or are you looking for in an investment advisor? Are there any credentials that you would trust more than others?
This may seem self-serving since I'm working on the program, but I would be more inclined to trust and investment advisor with the CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) designation. Unfortunately, I don't think you see too many advisors with this certification because it is more suited for people employed in investment analysis and portfolio management than salespeople. In terms of ethical training and accountability, there is a significant ethics component to the program, and charterholders can lose their certification if found to be in violation of ethical standards. On the downside though, because the program is aimed more to investment analysis and portfolio management, CFA charterholders may not be as knowledgeable on personal finance issues as holders of other certifications.
This may seem self-serving since I'm working on the program, but I would be more inclined to trust and investment advisor with the CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) designation. Unfortunately, I don't think you see too many advisors with this certification because it is more suited for people employed in investment analysis and portfolio management than salespeople. In terms of ethical training and accountability, there is a significant ethics component to the program, and charterholders can lose their certification if found to be in violation of ethical standards. On the downside though, because the program is aimed more to investment analysis and portfolio management, CFA charterholders may not be as knowledgeable on personal finance issues as holders of other certifications.