New York — Most Americans continue to place greater trust in human financial advisors than artificial intelligence when making major financial decisions, according to a recent survey that highlights persistent caution toward AI's role in personal finance.
The study found that while AI-powered financial tools are becoming increasingly common for budgeting, expense tracking, and basic investment insights, a majority of respondents still prefer guidance from professional advisors when making significant decisions such as retirement planning, long-term investing, estate planning, and major purchases.
Researchers said respondents cited personalized advice, accountability, and the ability to discuss complex financial situations as the primary reasons for trusting human professionals over automated systems. Many participants also expressed concerns about AI's ability to fully understand individual financial goals, changing life circumstances, and broader economic conditions.
Despite that preference, the survey indicated growing acceptance of AI as a complementary tool rather than a replacement for professional advice. Many respondents reported using AI-powered applications to monitor spending, compare financial products, analyze market trends, or answer basic personal finance questions before consulting an advisor for more consequential decision.
Industry analysts say the findings reflect a broader shift in financial services, where firms are increasingly integrating AI into client support, portfolio analysis, and administrative tasks while continuing to rely on human advisors for relationship management and strategic planning. The combination of technology and professional expertise is widely viewed as the most practical approach as AI capabilities continue to evolve.
Financial experts note that AI can quickly process large volumes of data and provide useful insights, but they emphasize that investment decisions should also account for an individual's risk tolerance, long-term objectives, tax considerations, and personal circumstances—areas where experienced advisors continue to play a central role.
The survey suggests that as AI adoption expands across the financial sector, consumers are likely to embrace a hybrid model in which technology enhances efficiency while human advisors remain the trusted source for complex financial planning and life-changing investment decisions.
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