Question

What’s the difference between a financial advisor, wealth manager, and financial planner?

Answer

The terms overlap, but each signals a different scope.

Financial advisor is the broadest label, covering anyone who gives financial guidance.

A wealth manager or wealth advisor provides comprehensive advice, integrated services — investments, tax planning, estate planning and risk management such as reviewing insurance and other protection strategies.

A financial planner focuses on long-term planning across goals like retirement, education, and insurance rather than solely on managing investments

Because these titles are not regulated, they should not be relied upon as the sole basis for determining an individual’s role or responsibilities. Before selecting, review the individual’s Form ADV Part 2B to verify the services they provide and whether they act in a fiduciary capacity.

About Mercer Advisors

We exist so you don’t have to worry about money. For more than 40 years, we’ve taken the sophisticated, time-tested approach that many ultra-high net worth individuals use to help manage their financial lives and made it accessible to more families.

Want to learn more about Mercer Advisors?