People who work with a Financial Adviser are twice as likely to retire before 65

It’s a big call to say financial advice can change your life — but the numbers are starting to back that up in black and white.

The latest ‘Value of an Adviser Report’ from Russell Investments shows that people who work with a financial adviser are twice as likely to retire before the age of 65 compared to those who don’t.

That’s a massive difference. And for a lot of Kiwis, retiring earlier isn’t about putting your feet up, it’s about having the flexibility to work because you want to, not because you have to. It’s about having choices.

What is the value of a financial adviser?

The report puts the total value of financial advice at 4.52% per year, on average well above the typical 1% fee most advisers charge. But it’s not just about growing investments. A big part of that value comes from helping people avoid expensive mistakes, stay calm when markets wobble, and make confident, long-term decisions.

In other words, it’s about helping people stick to the plan, especially when the world feels a bit uncertain.

That might sound simple, but it’s not always easy. Markets go up and down. Life happens. Having someone to talk it through with someone who knows your goals, knows your situation, and understands the financial landscape can make all the difference.

And that’s where we come in.

How Castle Trust Financial Planning can help you

At Castle Trust Financial Planning, we’re big believers that advice should feel personal. It’s not about spreadsheets and jargon, it’s about real conversations, clear strategies, and support when you need it.

Whether retirement’s still a way off or it’s just around the corner, getting good advice now can help you get there sooner and with more confidence.

Curious what financial advice could actually look like for you?

Let’s have a chat. No jargon, no pressure just a conversation about where you’re at now, where you want to go, and how the right advice could help you get there.