Gallup Study Shows Americans Prefer Human Financial Advisors Over AI

A joint study by Gallup and Edward Jones indicates a strong preference among American adults for human expertise over artificial intelligence when making major financial decisions. According to the research, 79% of adults expressed some level of confidence in human financial advisors, while fewer than 30% felt the same about AI guidance. Only 3% of respondents reported a great deal of confidence in AI.

Despite this gap in trust, approximately 18% of adults have utilized AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude for financial guidance. These interactions are primarily tactical, focusing on queries regarding 529 education savings accounts, 401(k) plans, or Trump Accounts.

David Chubak of Edward Jones noted that while AI is useful for discovery and refining financial questions, people still rely on human partners to navigate the emotional and consequential aspects of planning. Meanwhile, Jim Bianco, president of Bianco Research, warned investors that relying on AI carries the risk of groupthink investing.