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What is non-discretionary investment advice?

Non-discretionary investment advice means your adviser provides recommendations, but you retain final approval before implementation.

Last reviewed: July 2026

Direct answer

Non-discretionary investment advice means an adviser provides recommendations, but the client keeps final decision-making authority. The adviser can analyze, explain, recommend, and monitor, but trades or implementation steps require client approval. High Tide Advisory provides advisory services on a non-discretionary basis.

Why this matters

Many people assume all advisers manage accounts the same way. They do not.

Some advisers have discretionary authority, meaning they can place trades in client accounts without asking for approval each time, within the limits of the advisory agreement.

High Tide Advisory operates differently. The firm provides non-discretionary advice. That means recommendations are discussed with you before implementation.

Questions worth reviewing

  • You stay involved
  • The process is transparent
  • Planning context matters
  • It fits a planning-first model
  • Does non-discretionary mean I have to do everything myself?
  • Is non-discretionary better than discretionary management?

How High Tide Advisory helps

Full PDF Resource

Get the full What is non-discretionary investment advice? PDF.

This page gives you the overview. The full PDF goes deeper with the planning framework, checklists, examples of questions to review, and next-step organization.

Review Disclosures

Submitting this request does not establish an advisory relationship. The PDF is educational only and is not individualized investment, tax, legal, or insurance advice.

Common questions

Does non-discretionary mean I have to do everything myself?

No. High Tide Advisory can provide analysis, recommendations, and guidance. You retain final approval authority.

Is non-discretionary better than discretionary management?

Not universally. It depends on the client. Non-discretionary advice may appeal to clients who want more direct involvement.

Can High Tide Advisory trade without my permission?

High Tide Advisory does not accept discretionary authority. Clients maintain final decision-making authority before implementation.

Does non-discretionary advice still involve fiduciary duty?

When providing investment advisory services, High Tide Advisory acts in a fiduciary capacity.

Related resources

Educational only. This guide is for educational purposes only and is not individualized investment, tax, legal, or insurance advice. High Tide Advisory LLC provides non-discretionary investment advisory and financial planning services only pursuant to a written advisory agreement. Tax preparation or tax-related services, when applicable, may be provided through High Tide Tax Solutions LLC under a separate engagement. Insurance implementation, when applicable, may be provided through BJB Insurance Solutions LLC for separate compensation. Clients are not required to use either affiliated entity. Consult qualified tax and legal professionals before making tax or estate planning decisions.