Choosing the right financial advisor can feel overwhelming, but focusing on trust and transparency can make all the difference. Here’s what to look for and why it matters.
When it comes to money, peace of mind is often just as important as the numbers themselves. Having someone to guide you through investment choices, retirement planning or long-term financial goals can ease stress and provide clarity. But finding that person isn’t only about expertise—it’s also about whether you can genuinely rely on them.
The financial world can be complex, and not every advisor will be the right fit for every client. Personal values, communication style and the ability to explain strategies clearly all play into whether an advisor feels trustworthy. As investors become more discerning, building a relationship rooted in transparency is now as crucial as technical skill.
New trends in the financial advisory industry showcase the increasing value placed on trust and transparency. As Statista recently reported, among investors transparency was named as the most essential characteristic to maintaining a positive relationship with their financial advisor, and as CNB Bank & Trust also recently uncovered, 94% of clients said they were likely to make a referral only when they ‘highly trusted’ their advisor.
Whether you’re looking for your first ever financial advisor, or to change to a new one, the truth is in 2025 trust and transparency should be at the top of your radar, and you should give the search for a financial advisor time to ensure you find the right one—the one who will bring you real confidence in your financial present and financial future.
If you’re a trust, but verify, kind of person, one of the first things to look for is whether you are working with a licensed fiduciary advisor. This means they are legally bound to offer financial advice that serves their clients, not their own interests.
Other great ways to tell if your financial advisor is someone you should trust include asking about how they’re compensated, checking for any past disciplinary actions and paying attention to how clearly they explain their recommendations. Reading real client reviews and testimonials can also give you an honest sense of how they work with people day to day. If you feel rushed, confused or pressured, that may be a sign to look elsewhere.
Ultimately, trust is built over time. Start with small steps, like scheduling an initial consultation or asking for references, and see if the relationship feels open and respectful. Your instincts matter as much as the advisor’s credentials.
While there are plenty of self-directed tools, online platforms, and financial education resources available, these can’t always replace the nuanced support a trusted advisor provides. A professional can help you navigate complex decisions, tailor strategies to your specific circumstances, and provide reassurance during uncertain times.
That said, it’s worth remembering that advisors aren’t the only way forward—what matters most is choosing the path that gives you confidence and clarity. For many, the combination of independent learning and guidance from a trustworthy professional is the most balanced solution.
At the end of the day, the right financial advisor should leave you feeling secure, informed, and confident about your financial future.
"Goldstone Financial Group, LLC (“GFG”) is a registered investment advisor with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or qualification. This material is provided for informational purposes only. Opinions expressed herein are solely those of GFG. None of the information presented in this material is intended to offer personalized investment advice and does not constitute an offer to sell or solicit any offer to buy a security or any insurance product and is not intended to be used as the sole basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation."
