Fisher Investments is a well-known investment management firm that has been in the industry for over four decades. Founded by Ken Fisher in 1979, the company has grown to become one of the largest independent investment advisors in the United States. With over $197 billion in assets under management, Fisher Investments has established itself as a major player in the financial services sector. However, with great success comes great scrutiny, and many investors have raised questions about the legitimacy of Fisher Investments.
A Brief Overview of Fisher Investments
Before we dive into the legitimacy of Fisher Investments, it’s essential to understand the company’s background and services. Fisher Investments is a fee-only investment advisor that provides portfolio management and investment advice to individuals, families, and institutions. The company’s investment approach is based on a proprietary methodology that focuses on long-term growth and wealth preservation.
Fisher Investments offers a range of services, including:
- Portfolio management: The company provides customized portfolio management services to clients, taking into account their individual financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon.
- Investment advice: Fisher Investments provides investment advice to clients, helping them make informed decisions about their investment portfolios.
- Retirement planning: The company offers retirement planning services, helping clients create a sustainable income stream in retirement.
Is Fisher Investments Legit? A Review of the Company’s Credentials
So, is Fisher Investments legit? To answer this question, let’s take a closer look at the company’s credentials.
- Registration with the SEC: Fisher Investments is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as an investment advisor. This registration requires the company to adhere to strict regulatory standards and guidelines.
- Industry certifications: Many Fisher Investments employees hold industry certifications, such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. These certifications demonstrate a level of expertise and professionalism in the field of investment management.
- Transparency: Fisher Investments is transparent about its investment approach, fees, and services. The company provides clear and concise information about its methodology and investment strategies.
Red Flags: A Review of Fisher Investments’ Controversies
While Fisher Investments has a solid reputation in the industry, the company has faced some controversies over the years. Here are a few red flags to consider:
- Lawsuits: Fisher Investments has been involved in several lawsuits, including a 2019 lawsuit filed by the SEC alleging that the company had failed to disclose certain conflicts of interest. The lawsuit was settled out of court.
- Complaints: The company has received complaints from clients and former employees, alleging poor customer service, high fees, and aggressive sales tactics.
- Ken Fisher’s comments: Ken Fisher, the company’s founder and chairman, has made some controversial comments in the past, including a 2019 comment that was widely criticized as sexist and insensitive.
Fisher Investments’ Fees: Are They Reasonable?
Fisher Investments’ fees have been a subject of controversy in the past. The company charges a management fee that ranges from 0.89% to 1.49% of assets under management, depending on the client’s portfolio size and investment strategy. While these fees may seem reasonable, some critics argue that they are too high, especially for smaller portfolios.
Here’s a breakdown of Fisher Investments’ fees:
| Portfolio Size | Management Fee |
| — | — |
| $500,000 – $999,999 | 1.25% |
| $1,000,000 – $4,999,999 | 1.15% |
| $5,000,000 – $9,999,999 | 1.05% |
| $10,000,000+ | 0.89% |
Comparison to Other Investment Advisors
To put Fisher Investments’ fees into perspective, let’s compare them to those of other investment advisors. Here are the fees charged by some of Fisher Investments’ competitors:
| Company | Management Fee |
| — | — |
| Vanguard Personal Advisor Services | 0.30% – 0.50% |
| Schwab Intelligent Portfolios | 0.00% – 0.24% |
| Fidelity Personalized Planning & Advice | 0.50% – 1.50% |
As you can see, Fisher Investments’ fees are higher than those of some of its competitors. However, the company argues that its fees are justified by the level of service and expertise it provides to clients.
Conclusion: Is Fisher Investments Legit?
So, is Fisher Investments legit? Based on our review, the answer is yes. While the company has faced some controversies and criticisms, it has a solid reputation in the industry and a long track record of success. Fisher Investments is registered with the SEC, transparent about its fees and services, and has a team of experienced investment professionals.
However, it’s essential to do your own research and due diligence before investing with any company. Here are a few takeaways to consider:
- Understand the fees: Make sure you understand Fisher Investments’ fees and how they compare to those of other investment advisors.
- Research the company’s investment approach: Take the time to learn about Fisher Investments’ investment methodology and how it aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
- Read reviews and testimonials: Check out reviews and testimonials from current and former clients to get a sense of the company’s strengths and weaknesses.
By doing your own research and due diligence, you can make an informed decision about whether Fisher Investments is the right investment advisor for you.
Is Fisher Investments a legitimate investment firm?
Fisher Investments is a well-established investment firm that has been in business for over four decades. The company was founded in 1979 by Ken Fisher and has since grown to become one of the largest independent investment advisors in the United States. With over $197 billion in assets under management, Fisher Investments has a proven track record of providing investment management services to individuals, families, and institutions.
Fisher Investments is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). The company is also a fiduciary, which means that it is required to act in the best interests of its clients. Fisher Investments has a strong reputation in the industry and has received numerous awards and recognition for its investment performance and client service.
What services does Fisher Investments offer?
Fisher Investments offers a range of investment management services to its clients. The company provides customized investment portfolios that are tailored to each client’s individual financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. Fisher Investments also offers a range of investment strategies, including equity, fixed income, and alternative investments. The company’s investment approach is based on a long-term perspective and a focus on capital preservation and growth.
In addition to investment management, Fisher Investments also provides financial planning and wealth management services to its clients. The company’s financial advisors work closely with clients to understand their financial goals and develop a comprehensive financial plan that addresses their investment, tax, and estate planning needs. Fisher Investments also offers retirement planning and wealth transfer services to help clients achieve their long-term financial objectives.
How does Fisher Investments make money?
Fisher Investments makes money by charging its clients a fee for its investment management services. The company’s fees are based on a percentage of the client’s assets under management, and the fee rate varies depending on the type of investment strategy and the level of assets under management. Fisher Investments also generates revenue from its financial planning and wealth management services, which are typically provided on a fee-for-service basis.
It’s worth noting that Fisher Investments does not charge commissions or other transaction-based fees, which can be a conflict of interest for some investment firms. The company’s fee-only structure aligns its interests with those of its clients, which means that Fisher Investments is incentivized to provide investment advice that is in the best interests of its clients.
Is Fisher Investments a fiduciary?
Yes, Fisher Investments is a fiduciary. As a registered investment advisor, the company is required to act in the best interests of its clients and to provide investment advice that is free from conflicts of interest. Fisher Investments has a fiduciary duty to its clients, which means that it must prioritize their interests above its own.
As a fiduciary, Fisher Investments is required to disclose any potential conflicts of interest to its clients and to obtain their consent before engaging in any transaction that may present a conflict. The company is also required to maintain the confidentiality of client information and to provide transparent and accurate disclosure of its investment strategies and fees.
What is the minimum investment requirement for Fisher Investments?
The minimum investment requirement for Fisher Investments varies depending on the type of investment strategy and the level of service required. For its private client group, the minimum investment requirement is typically $500,000. However, the company also offers a range of investment strategies that have lower minimum investment requirements, including its investment portfolios for individuals and families.
It’s worth noting that Fisher Investments is a boutique investment firm that caters to high net worth individuals and families. The company’s investment strategies are designed to meet the complex financial needs of its clients, and its minimum investment requirements reflect the level of service and expertise that it provides.
How does Fisher Investments select its investment managers?
Fisher Investments selects its investment managers based on their experience, expertise, and track record of investment performance. The company’s investment managers are required to have a minimum of 10 years of investment experience and a strong understanding of the capital markets. They must also have a proven track record of investment performance and a deep understanding of the company’s investment philosophy and approach.
Fisher Investments also requires its investment managers to be certified financial analysts (CFAs) or chartered financial analysts (CFAs). The company’s investment managers are also required to adhere to a strict code of ethics and to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
Can I trust Fisher Investments with my money?
Fisher Investments has a strong reputation in the industry and has received numerous awards and recognition for its investment performance and client service. The company is registered with the SEC and is a member of FINRA, which means that it is subject to strict regulatory oversight and must adhere to high standards of ethics and professionalism.
However, as with any investment firm, there are risks associated with investing with Fisher Investments. The company’s investment strategies may not be suitable for all investors, and there is always a risk that the value of your investments may decline. It’s essential to do your research, read reviews, and consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.