Look beyond ratings for a better understanding of investment risk

Risk ratings often don't tell the whole story

clock • 4 min read

Now more than ever, advisers should look further than ratings to fully understand how investment funds align with their clients’ specific risk profile, writes Nick Henshaw

Ratings provided by independent agencies are a brilliant starting point for advisers working to determine the risk profile of different investment funds, both on and off-platform. But, especially given the elevated volatility that markets have been experiencing recently, it's important that they are seen just as that – a starting point. Risk ratings are useful because they provide a single metric that allows an adviser to assess a potential investment at a glance. But, while ratings provide a fast and cost-effective way to determine suitability and meet regulatory requirements, they 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 Investment

Looking beyond the oil shock

Looking beyond the oil shock

'A few weeks ago, there was genuine reason for optimism'

Fahad Hassan
clock 27 July 2026 • 4 min read
What does a new PM and chancellor mean for investments?

What does a new PM and chancellor mean for investments?

'What is important is what happens over the long term'

Jasper Thornton Boelman
clock 23 July 2026 • 4 min read
SJP rebrands global equity income fund and reduces charges

SJP rebrands global equity income fund and reduces charges

Appoints Acadian as investment adviser

Patrick Brusnahan
clock 22 July 2026 • 1 min read