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If you want to grow your wealth with automated investing, Wealthfront and M1 Finance are two low-cost, hands-off options that suit different investors. Here’s a clear look at what each offers and who they’re best for.
Wealthfront
Wealthfront began as a classic robo-advisor for people who want a fully managed experience. After a short questionnaire, it builds a diversified portfolio geared to your timeline, risk tolerance, and goals. The service handles rebalancing, dividend reinvestment, and tax-loss harvesting to help optimize returns. It also offers individual stocks, ETFs, and themed portfolios.
M1 Finance
M1 provides access to thousands of ETFs and stocks plus screeners to help you design a portfolio. It also offers expert model portfolios for retirement, income, global exposure, socially responsible investing, and more. M1 will rebalance your portfolio back to your target allocation on request. Trading is commission-free; accounts with a $10,000 balance (or an approved loan) can avoid monthly fees, otherwise a $3 monthly fee may apply.
Which to choose
Both platforms blend automated and self-directed investing, but they serve different styles. Choose Wealthfront if you want a hands-off, tax-efficient portfolio that’s managed for you. Choose M1 Finance if you prefer to build or customize your own portfolio while still using automated rebalancing and model portfolios. Wealthfront is ideal for passive investors who want everything handled; M1 is better for DIY investors who want control plus automation. Both offer cash-management features and socially responsible investing options.
Safety and security
Both companies use strong security measures and work with partner banks so cash deposits are protected by FDIC insurance. Investment accounts are protected by SIPC against broker-dealer failure. That said, market risk and price volatility always apply.
