Robo-advisors: What They Are, Types, and How to Invest in 2026

June 30, 2026

Today, technology and artificial intelligence are revolutionizing the way we invest our money. One of the latest trends in the investment world is the use of robo-advisors, also known as automated financial advisors. In this article, we will explore what robo-advisors are, their origin, the different types available, how they work, their profitability, a comparative list of the best robo-advisors, key aspects to consider when choosing one, and the steps to invest with a robo-advisor. Additionally, we will analyze the advantages and disadvantages of using a robo-advisor. Let's get started!

Nueva llamada a la acción

What is a Robo-Advisor?

A robo-advisor is a digital platform that uses algorithms and advanced technology to provide automated financial advisory services. These platforms allow investors to efficiently and conveniently manage and optimize their investment portfolios.

Instead of relying on a human financial advisor, a robo-advisor uses algorithms and mathematical models to offer personalized investment recommendations. These algorithms analyze factors such as the client's financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment time horizon to design a suitable portfolio.

Robo-advisors typically offer a wide range of investment products, such as index funds, ETFs, and stocks. Additionally, they provide tracking and monitoring tools so investors can follow their portfolio performance in real-time.

One of the main advantages of robo-advisors is their accessibility. As online platforms, investors can access their accounts and conduct transactions anytime, anywhere. Furthermore, robo-advisors generally have lower costs compared to traditional financial advisors, which makes them more appealing to a wide range of investors.

Origin of Robo-Advisors

Robo-advisors first emerged in the 2000s, but it was after the 2008 financial crisis that they gained popularity. Investors, disillusioned with the high costs and poor practices of some traditional financial advisors, sought more transparent and cost-effective alternatives. It was in this context that robo-advisors began to gain traction, offering automated financial advisory services at a fraction of the cost of human advisors.

Nueva llamada a la acción

Types of Robo-Advisors

Robo-advisors offer investors two investment options: portfolios of real estate investment funds, designed to maximize returns, and pension plans, aimed at generating long-term savings. These investment alternatives, in turn, diversify into fixed-income assets and variable income.

How Do Robo-Advisors Work?

Robo-advisors use algorithms and advanced technology to provide automated financial advice. The process typically begins with an online questionnaire where the investor provides information about their risk profile, financial goals, and investment horizon. Based on these responses, the robo-advisor generates a diversified investment portfolio tailored to the client's needs.

Once the portfolio is established, the robo-advisor is responsible for automatically monitoring and adjusting the assets based on market changes and the investor's objectives. This allows the portfolio to remain balanced and aligned with the client's long-term goals, without requiring constant investor intervention.

How Profitable is a Robo-Advisor?

The profitability of a robo-advisor can vary depending on several factors, such as the investment strategy used, the performance of the underlying assets, and the fees charged by the platform. In general, robo-advisors typically have lower costs compared to traditional financial advisors, which can increase the net return for the investor.

It's important to note that no investment is risk-free and robo-advisors do not guarantee positive returns. However, by utilizing sophisticated algorithms and diversifying investments, robo-advisors can help minimize risk and maximize long-term returns.

Comparative List of the Best Robo-Advisors

Below, we present a comparative list of some of the best robo-advisors available on the market:

InbestMe

It stands out for offering more complex yet more comprehensive plans for investors seeking a combination of passive and active management.

Before opening an account with InbestMe and choosing one of their plans, it's important to first determine which one best suits your needs.

The commission can be up to 1.20%, as its investment approach is not as passive and is more actively managed compared to others mentioned previously. In other words, it does not generate profitable passive income

Like other providers, InbestMe offers a free management promotion for up to €15,000 during the first year, allowing you to try their services risk-free.

Myinvestor

It launched as a provider of investment funds, both managed and indexed, giving each investor the freedom to select the funds they prefer and build their own portfolio with attractive commissions. This service remains the core of its business. However, they have also expanded their offering by acting as a robo-advisor through their managed portfolio service.

Openbank

Openbank, like Popcoin, is the online division of Banco Santander, leveraging this brand to compete in the passive investment field through its robo-advisor service.

Openbank's commission starts at 1.03%, including all expenses, and decreases as the amount you invest increases. To invest with Openbank, you must first open an account.

Keys to Choosing the Best Robo-Advisor

When choosing a robo-advisor, it's important to consider some key aspects. Below are three important points to keep in mind:

Costs and Fees

It's essential to evaluate the costs and fees associated with the robo-advisor. This includes portfolio management fees, transaction fees, and any other additional charges. It's important to find a balance between the cost and the value the robo-advisor offers in terms of services and performance.

Customization and Adaptability

Different investors have different needs and goals. It's important to choose a robo-advisor that offers customization and adaptability options to meet individual needs. This can include the ability to adjust risk levels, select specific investment themes, or modify asset allocation.

Experience and Reputation

Researching a robo-advisor's experience and reputation is crucial for making an informed decision. It's advisable to read reviews from other users, investigate the background of the team behind the robo-advisor, and verify that the platform complies with relevant regulatory standards.

Steps to Invest with a Robo-Advisor in

Investing with a robo-advisor is a simple and accessible process. Here are the steps to follow:

Research and Selection

Researching and comparing different robo-advisors is the first step to investing. Analyzing the costs, investment strategy, services offered, and reputation of each platform can help you make an informed decision.

Registration and Account Opening

Once you've selected a robo-advisor, the next step is to register and open an account on the platform. This typically involves providing personal information and completing a questionnaire that will help determine your risk profile and investment goals.

Fund Transfer and Investment

Once the account is active, you should transfer the desired funds to the robo-advisor's account. The platform will then invest the funds according to the selected strategy and will automatically monitor and adjust the portfolio based on market changes and the investor's goals.

Advantages of Using a Robo-Advisor

Using a robo-advisor offers several advantages for investors. Here are some of them:

  • Access to automated financial advice at a lower cost compared to human advisors.
  • Greater diversification and risk management through advanced algorithms.
  •  Saving time and effort by not requiring constant investor intervention.
  • Transparency regarding costs and investment decisions.

Disadvantages of Robo-Advisors

Despite the advantages, there are also some disadvantages associated with using robo-advisors. Some of these include:

  • Lack of personalized human advice.
  • Limitations regarding specialized investment options.
  • Risk of errors when relying solely on algorithms.
  • Potential service interruptions due to technical issues.

Conclusion

Robo-advisors have proven to be an attractive option for investors seeking an accessible, efficient, and cost-effective way to invest their money. These platforms utilize algorithms and advanced technology to provide automated financial advice, offering benefits such as lower costs, diversification, and risk management. However, it's also important to consider the limitations and disadvantages associated with using robo-advisors. By carefully researching and selecting the right platform, investors can fully leverage the opportunities this innovative investment method offers in 2024. Another investment platform option is Domoblock, which specializes in real estate tokenization and real estate crowdfunding,  offering the opportunity to invest in high-yield properties, should you be interested in real estate investment. But first, find out what types of real estate investments exist in the market.

Don't wait any longer—start exploring the world of robo-advisors to boost your investments for the future!

Nueva llamada a la acción

Sergio Navarro

Expert in blockchain, investments, and personal finance

Share on your social media

Do you like what you're reading?

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Do you like what you're reading?

Subscribe to our newsletter!

En estudio

Villareal | Castellón

Josep Ramón Batalla, 54

DOMO-CS-2
Flipping building

Funded

-

-

Target

647.323,06 €

Rentabilidad estimada:
12,64%
Duración estimada:
12
Chat with other investors and ask your questions in our Telegram group

Related articles