What is the difference between an investment adviser and a stockbroker?

The difference between an investment adviser and a stockbroker lies in the services they provide. Stockbrokers are primarily focused on conducting transactions with stocks and other securities on behalf of their clients. Stockbrokers help clients buy, sell, and manage investments. They typically have less regulatory requirements and provide advice that is more limited in scope than that of an investment adviser. An investment adviser is a professional who provides financial advice and money management services to their clients. Investment advisers provide tailored advice to clients that takes into account their unique risk tolerance and financial goals. They have a fiduciary duty to act in their clients’ best interests. In California, investment advisers are required to register with the California Department of Business Oversight. Unlike a stockbroker, an investment adviser has to follow more stringent rules and regulations, as laid out by California’s Investment Fraud Law. The law is intended to protect investors from fraudulent practices, such as insider trading, Ponzi schemes, and other illicit activities. Investment advisers are held to a high standard of care, which means they must always place their clients’ interests ahead of their own.

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