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Chart of the Day: Financial Planning: Importance vs. Action

John Keefer, Trust Investment Associate Aug 18, 2026
Bar graph comparing the percentage of investors who think financial planning is important vs. those who actually have a formal plan.

Contents

Today's Chart of the Day was created with data from Morgan Stanley’s Financial Planning Survey and gives valuable insight into investor attitudes toward comprehensive financial planning.

The poll surveyed over one thousand affluent investors between the ages of 25 and 75 to better understand perceptions of financial planning and whether individuals are actively putting structured plans in place.

The survey's key takeaway: Nearly everyone recognizes the importance of financial planning, but only about half actually have a formal plan.

This gap highlights the value of working with financial professionals when navigating major life events or unexpected market shifts. Proper guidance can help bring structure and clarity to key financial decisions.
Chart of the Day

About the Author

John Keefer, Trust Investment Associate
John Keefer, Trust Investment Associate

John joined Crews Bank & Trust as a Trust Investment Associate in September 2025. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus in Finance and Banking from the University of Missouri, along with an Investment Certificate. In his role, he supports portfolio maintenance and analysis while helping clients work toward their financial goals.

Investments are not a deposit or other obligation of, or guaranteed by, the bank, are not FDIC insured, not insured by any federal government agency, and are subject to investment risks, including possible loss of principal.

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