Examining the association between robo-advisory and perceived financial satisfaction

Abstract

Purpose

Robo-advisory has become an increasingly popular asset management tool in recent decades. This paper studies the association between robo-advisor usage and perceived financial satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data extracted from the National Financial Capability Study 2015 (NFCS2015), the present study carried out a logistic analysis that examines the association between robo-advisory and perceived financial satisfaction. This model also studies the interaction effect of age on this association.

Findings

The present study finds that robo-advisor usage is positively correlated with a person’s perceived financial satisfaction after controlling for covariates related to financial literacy and other demographic factors. Moreover, the present study reveals that age moderates the association between robo-advisory usage and financial satisfaction. The results are robust after regressing financial satisfaction on robo-advisory by different age groups.

Originality/value

This paper extends existing literature on robo-advisory by showing that robo-advisory usage relates to a higher level of financial satisfaction. This finding helps understand the rapidly increasing trend of robo-advisory in the financial industry. Moreover, the present study reveals a moderate effect of age on the association between robo-advisory usage and perceived financial satisfaction.