For a long time, the image of the financial advisor has been tightly associated with high-net-worth individuals—those with sprawling portfolios, multiple properties, or complex tax needs. But in 2025, the financial landscape is evolving, and so too is the role of financial advisors. Today, even if you’re just getting started with investing or navigating your first job, financial advice isn’t out of reach. In fact, it might be the smartest financial move you can make—regardless of your current income or net worth.
Breaking the Myth: Advisors Are Only for the Wealthy
It’s a persistent misconception: “I’m not rich enough for a financial advisor.” This belief has kept many young professionals and everyday savers from seeking help, delaying smart financial decisions that could have helped them grow wealth earlier.
But let’s set the record straight. According to a 2024 study by the CFP Board, nearly 60% of people who work with financial planners have under € 500,000 in assets. Many advisors today offer scalable solutions tailored to smaller portfolios, hourly consultations, or project-based fees—meaning you don’t need a massive bank account to get started.
What a Financial Advisor Can Do for You—Even Early On
You might think, “I just have a few thousand euros saved—what’s the point?” But this is exactly when guidance matters most. Advisors can help you:
- Create a budget and savings plan.
- Understand how to prioritize between debt repayment, emergency funds, and investing.
- Choose the right types of accounts (like a tax-efficient investment wrapper or a pension fund).
- Avoid common beginner mistakes, such as overconcentration or emotional investing.
The earlier you structure your finances with intention, the more powerful tools like compounding, diversification, and tax optimization become over time.
Lower Fees, More Options
The rise of fintech platforms, robo-advisors, and hybrid services has democratized access to financial advice. For instance, platforms like Moneyfarm or Scalable Capital offer managed portfolios starting from as little as €1,000. In the U.S., tools like Betterment and Ellevest offer guided investing with human advisors available for an additional fee.
A growing number of independent advisors in Europe and Italy are now fee-only or charge hourly—removing the pressure of high commissions or complex products. In 2025, the average cost of a one-time financial check-up in Europe can range from € 200 to € 500, with ongoing advisory available at 0.5% to 1% of assets annually—well within reach for many.
The Emotional Value of Advice
Beyond numbers, working with a financial advisor can bring peace of mind. Behavioral studies have shown that people who work with advisors feel more confident about their financial future. A 2023 Vanguard report found that clients working with an advisor experienced, on average, 3% more in net returns annually when accounting for disciplined decision-making and long-term strategy.
An advisor acts as a financial therapist, helping you stay on track, especially during volatile markets. They’re not just for picking the next hot stock—they’re for making sure your investments align with your life goals, whether that’s a house in five years or early retirement at 50.
Building Wealth Starts with Smart Decisions—Not a Big Bank Account
The truth is, you don’t build wealth and then go to a financial advisor. You build wealth because you work with one. Whether it’s a one-hour session to review your financial plan or a long-term relationship, starting early builds the foundation for financial literacy and smarter decisions.
And if the cost still feels like a hurdle, remember: good advice now can prevent costly mistakes later. The wrong insurance, a missed tax advantage, or an emotional reaction during a market crash can cost far more than a consultation fee.
Your Financial Partner Doesn’t Have to Be Out of Reach
In today’s world, financial advisors are no longer gatekeepers of the wealthy—they are partners for anyone who wants to take control of their future. If you’re earning a salary, trying to save, juggling student debt, or just wondering how to make the most of your money, seeking advice could be the best investment you make this year.
You don’t need to be rich to work with a financial advisor. But working with one just might help you get there.
