Investment advisers have a responsibility to:

Investment advisers bear a fiduciary duty to their clients, which fundamentally requires them to act in the clients' best interests. Exercising independent judgment is crucial in this role because it allows advisers to make decisions based on objective criteria and the specific needs and goals of their clients, rather than being influenced by external pressures or conflicts of interest.

When advisers exercise independent judgment, they are better positioned to recommend suitable investments, appropriate asset allocations, and tailored strategies that align with the client's risk tolerance, investment horizon, and overall financial objectives. This independence also mitigates the risk of making recommendations driven by personal gain or prevailing industry trends that may not serve the client's best interests.

Ultimately, exercising independent judgment aligns with the ethical and professional standards that govern the investment advisory profession, reinforcing the trust that clients place in their advisers.