The future of financial advice

A focus on behaviour and personalised guidance 

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In an era dominated by data and technology, one might assume that financial decisions are purely a matter of numbers. Yet, research consistently shows that behaviour and mindset play a far greater role in shaping financial outcomes than the figures alone. Momentum is leading the charge in acknowledging this, ensuring that our advice goes beyond numbers to address the human emotions and behaviours that influence financial decisions.

At Momentum, our purpose is clear: to build and protect clients’ dreams. This vision drives everything we do, from developing personalised financial strategies to offering behaviourally informed advice that aligns with clients’ unique life stories. In a world filled with financial data, real value comes from understanding the people behind the numbers.

The rise of behaviourally informed financial advice

Financial services are evolving rapidly, and the role of the adviser is shifting with it. Modern clients no longer seek transactional services that focus solely on product recommendations. They want guidance tailored to their personal goals, financial behaviours, and the factors that influence their money decisions.

This is where behaviour comes into play. People’s attitudes toward money are shaped by early life experiences, cultural backgrounds, and subconscious beliefs, also known as money scripts. Whether it is a tendency to avoid debt at all costs or the belief that financial success is tied to status symbols, these ingrained patterns impact every financial choice.

We recognise that understanding these behaviours is key to delivering meaningful advice. It is no longer enough to recommend products based on surface-level financial data. Advisers must dive into the psychological factors at play, providing advice that resonates with a client’s life experiences, values, and emotions. This is how we help clients build and protect their dreams.

Money scripts and their impact on financial decisions

For advisers, recognising and addressing these money scripts is essential. If an adviser suggests a strategy that conflicts with a client’s deep-seated beliefs, the client may resist or feel uncomfortable. By understanding the emotional drivers behind these beliefs, advisers can offer advice that is both practical and aligned with the client’s emotional framework.

At Momentum, we ensure our advisers are equipped to navigate these emotional complexities. We focus on educating clients about the role their money scripts play and helping them adopt healthier financial behaviours that support their long-term objectives.

Behavioural coaching for better financial outcomes

In addition to understanding money scripts, advisers at Momentum play a key role as behavioural coaches. We know that even the most well-laid financial plans can be derailed by emotional reactions to short-term events, such as market fluctuations or unexpected life changes. By applying principles of behavioural finance, our advisers help clients avoid impulsive decisions that could undermine their long-term goals.

For example, when markets drop, fear and uncertainty often drive individuals to make rash decisions, such as selling off investments at a loss. Behavioural coaching helps clients maintain a long-term perspective, reducing the “behavioural tax” of poor financial decisions driven by emotional responses. This guidance ensures that clients stay focused on achieving their dreams, despite short-term distractions.

Personalised advice: The core of momentum’s approach

At Momentum, we believe that advice—not products—should be at the heart of financial planning. Personalised, behaviourally informed advice allows us to connect with clients on a deeper level, offering insights that go beyond basic financial planning.

Our outcome-based advice framework is designed around helping clients achieve their unique life goals, with financial strategies tailored to their specific needs. This approach considers every aspect of the client’s life, including their money behaviours, personal values, and evolving circumstances. We are committed to delivering advice that is truly client-centric, aligning financial strategies with both emotional and financial realities.

Building and protecting clients’ dreams

Momentum’s purpose is to build and protect the dreams of our clients. This goes beyond numbers and charts. It’s about helping clients create a financial foundation that supports the life they envision. We provide the guidance they need to navigate complex financial landscapes, ensuring that every decision aligns with their broader goals.

We understand that trust is essential in achieving these outcomes. That is why our advisers prioritise long-term relationships, built on understanding, empathy, and expert advice. By focusing on our clients’ unique aspirations, we ensure that their financial strategies evolve alongside their lives.

The role of technology in personalised advice

Sonja Steyn, CFP®, Strategic Head: Wealth Management, Financial Planning & Advice: Momentum Advice, Momentum Group
Sonja Steyn, CFP®, Strategic Head: Wealth Management, Financial Planning & Advice: Momentum Advice, Momentum Group

Technology and AI have transformed the financial services landscape, offering clients instant access to financial tools and data. While these innovations are valuable, they cannot replace the personalised insight that comes from human advisers. We embrace technology as a tool to enhance, not replace, the human element in financial advice.

Our advisers use advanced technology to provide data-driven insights and hyper-personalised advice. However, it is their understanding of client behaviours, emotions, and values that truly sets them apart. This combination of cutting-edge technology and human expertise allows us to offer a transformative advisory experience that is both seamless and personal.

Conclusion

At Momentum, we are redefining financial advice by placing behaviour and personalised guidance at the forefront. By combining behavioural insights with cutting-edge technology, we ensure that our clients receive advice that is as unique as they are, setting them on a path toward lasting financial success. 


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