What shapes investor beliefs and behaviours? Steve Utkus, a leading expert in investor behaviour and former Global Head of Investor and Retirement Research at Vanguard, brings decades of groundbreaking insights to this episode. Drawing on exclusive access to Vanguard’s anonymized client data and investor surveys, Steve uncovers the intricate links between what people believe and how they invest. In the first half, he reveals surprising findings from his research into investor beliefs and portfolio decisions. The second half dives into the impact of financial advisors, both human and robotic, on improving investor outcomes. Steve’s reflections, enriched by years of collaboration with academic leaders and personal conversations with Vanguard founder Jack Bogle, offer a rare window into the world of data-driven financial research. Join us today for this fascinating conversation as we unpack fresh perspectives on investor behaviour and the evolving role of financial advice!

Key Points From This Episode:

(0:00:20) The importance of understanding investor belief, Steve’s unique approach to studying it, and the benefits of using survey data.

(0:08:37) Understanding the effects of individual beliefs on portfolio equity shares.

(0:13:40) How equity sensitivity varies with things like trading frequency and how observed sensitivity compares with predictions of an asset pricing model.

(0:17:27) The variation of beliefs across different groups and the strong effect of being a pessimist, optimist, or having a middle-of-the-road perspective.

(0:21:29) Investor cash flow expectations, how it affects stock return expectations, and how it aligns with models of equilibrium.

(0:24:35) The impact of stock market disaster expectations on future stock returns and the effect of COVID-19 on investor expectations.

(0:33:37) ESG investing motives, portfolio impact, and the role of financial returns.

(0:38:35) Unpacking the impact of robo-advisors on previously DIY investors and who benefits.

(0:45:21) Pros and cons of human financial advisors: the needs they satisfy over robo-advisors.

(0:53:12) How unadvised investors’ needs differ from those who get financial advice.

(0:54:04) What determines how much value investors place on financial advice and how they think about the trade-offs between fees and the value of advice.

(01:00:00) Reasons traditionally-advised people give for not switching to robo-advising.

(01:03:15) Having a relationship with a good advisor: how it impacts investor behaviour through poor market performance periods, and the importance of frequent quality communication.

(01:13:07) The key attributes of a high-retention advisor and what they should be focusing on.

(01:19:02) Success, retirement, timing, and knowing when to leave, according to Steve.