Chris Budd: What makes a good financial decision?

clock • 3 min read

Chris Budd looks at how advisers can help their clients to make better financial decisions…

Humans are not built for making good financial decisions. What do I mean by ‘good'? The easy answer would be to say that a good financial decision is one that helps a client achieve their objectives. Even that starting point, however, is problematical. Money objectives This is for two reasons; firstly, our objectives tend to be focused on now, not on the future. We are simply not very good at delaying gratification and find it very difficult to picture our future selves. Consequently, therefore, achieving an objective now might actually make us less happy in the future. If the o...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Your Business

News editor's view: Advice firm valuations - are we at the peak?

News editor's view: Advice firm valuations - are we at the peak?

The news editor's Friday Night Takeaway from 6 February

Isabel Baxter
clock 06 February 2026 • 3 min read
Majority of advisers confident on increasing profits amid 'challenging year'

Majority of advisers confident on increasing profits amid 'challenging year'

Latest SOTAN report says 78% predict higher profits in 2026

Jenna Brown
clock 04 February 2026 • 3 min read
Preparing to sell an advisory business and planning for what comes after

Preparing to sell an advisory business and planning for what comes after

'In short, do not rush into a process until you have your proverbial ducks in a row'

Roderic Rennison
clock 03 February 2026 • 5 min read