Robo-Advising
28 Pages Posted: 24 Mar 2020
There are 2 versions of this paper
Robo-Advising
Date Written: January 15, 2020
Abstract
In this chapter, we first discuss the limitations of traditional financial advice, which led to the emergence of robo-advising. We then describe the main features of robo-advising and propose a taxonomy of robo-advisors based on four defining dimensions: personalization, discretion, involvement, and human interaction. Building on these premises, we delve into the theoretical and empirical evidence on the design and effects of robo-advisors on two major sets of financial decisions, that is, investment choices (for both short- or long-term horizons) and the allocation if financial resources between spending and saving. We conclude by elaborating on five broadly open issues in robo-advising, which beget theoretical and empirical research by scholars in economics, finance, psychology, law, philosophy, as well as regulators and industry practitioners.
Keywords: Robo-advisors, algorithmic aversion, machine learning, artificial intelligence, hybrid robo-advice, holistic advice, conflicts of interest, fiduciaries, preferences, beliefs
JEL Classification: D14, G21
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation