April 2020 Pulse Survey: The Impact of COVID-19 on CFP® Professionals and Their Clients

This pulse survey of CFP® professionals, conducted online from April 6-13, 2020, offers insights on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on CFP® professionals and their clients.

Key findings include:

• CFP® professionals are reporting increased client inquiries during the COVID-19 pandemic, with more than 78% of survey respondents reporting an increase.
• During the COVID-19 pandemic, clients are contacting CFP® professionals with a range of concerns, with more than 70% of survey respondents reporting clients raising concerns with managing volatility, and with protecting assets.
• CFP® professionals are recommending that their clients take a long-term view as they address their financial concerns. More than 36% of survey respondents say their primary advice to clients is “Sit tight. Wait to make any major financial decisions until volatility decreases.”
• CFP® professionals believe in the value of a financial plan. More than 94% of survey respondents agree that Americans with a financial plan are more likely to make progress toward their goals, even during these uncertain times.

Read the full survey

More than 34% of surveyed CFP® professionals reported an increase in inquiries from prospective clients as the COVID-19 pandemic has evolved.