Definition
What is a fiduciary financial advisor?
A fiduciary financial advisor is legally required to act in your best interest at all times, placing your financial well-being ahead of their own. Fiduciaries must avoid or disclose conflicts of interest, and they cannot recommend a product simply because it pays them more.
Not every financial professional is a fiduciary. Brokers and insurance agents often operate under a lower “suitability” standard, which only requires that a recommendation be suitable — not that it be the best available option for you.
Registered Investment Advisers (RIAs), like Up Capital Management, are held to the fiduciary standard under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. That duty applies to every recommendation — across planning, investments, tax, and estate work.
Related terms
This definition is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment, tax, or legal advice. Rules and thresholds change; consult a qualified professional about your situation.