Debunking myths about robo-advisors.
Learn the truth behind robo-advisors, the modern method of automating your investing.
MYTH #1: Robo-advice portfolios are one-size-fits-all.
TRUTH:
Using your answers about your goals, risk tolerance, and timeline, Schwab Intelligent Portfolios® will build you a tailored portfolio, curated from 50+ hand-selected ETFs, representing 20+ expanded asset classes, six risk profiles, and three investment strategies. The result is more than 80 different models that are recommended based on your goals and personal preferences. If your needs ever change, you have the flexibility to update your portfolio anytime.
MYTH #2: Robo-advisors lack human oversight.
TRUTH:
Charles Schwab Investment Advisory, Inc. (CSIA) dedicates an entire team of experienced analysts to continually research and evolve their approach to creating asset allocations designed to improve outcomes for individual investors.
MYTH #3: If I choose a robo-advisor, I don't get professional guidance.
TRUTH:
Schwab Intelligent Portfolios includes 24/7 access to live support from U.S.-based service professionals who can answer questions you might have about your account. You can also choose a fee-based option that includes unlimited 1:1 guidance from a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional.
MYTH #4: Robo portfolios are designed to "beat the market."
TRUTH:
The objective of Schwab Intelligent Portfolios is not to try to beat the market but rather to help you achieve better outcomes over time by staying consistently invested in a diversified portfolio as the market fluctuates. This helps you take the emotion out of investing by not reacting to external events while maintaining a long-term view of your goals. It also means that Schwab Intelligent Portfolios' performance may be better or worse than specific market benchmarks.
MYTH #5: All robo-advisors charge similar investment fees.
TRUTH:
While different robo-advisors have varying fee structures, with Schwab Intelligent Portfolios, you'll pay no advisory fee and no commissions. However, as with all other robo-advisors, you will pay the ETF operating expenses.* See how Schwab Intelligent Portfolios' fees compare to other robo-advisors'.
MYTH #6: Robo-advisor performance is unproven.
TRUTH:
With the first robo-advisor launching over a decade ago and over 100 robo-advisors available today, there is plenty of historical data to reference. Robo-advisor portfolios often perform comparably to or better than traditional portfolios.
Think a robo‑advisor is right for you?
Learn more about what Schwab has to offer:
Schwab Intelligent Portfolios
Our robo-advisor builds, monitors, and automatically rebalances a diversified portfolio based on your goals. You can get help from Schwab professionals anytime, 24/7.
Schwab Intelligent Portfolios Premium®
Provides all the features of Schwab Intelligent Portfolios, plus unlimited 1:1 guidance from a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, a digital financial plan, and interactive online planning tools.