Which of the following is a responsibility of investment advisers?

Investment advisers have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of their clients. This responsibility is fundamental to their role and encompasses the obligation to put clients' needs above their own when making investment recommendations or managing assets. Being a fiduciary means that advisers must provide advice that is not only suitable but also optimal for the client's unique financial situation, goals, and risk tolerance.

Acting in the best interests of clients helps to build trust and confidence in the advisory relationship, ensuring that clients feel secure in the decisions being made on their behalf. This principle is supported by regulatory frameworks, which emphasize the obligation of advisers to prioritize their clients' interests and to disclose any conflicts of interest that may arise.

While investment advisers undoubtedly provide investment advice, their responsibility goes beyond mere advice to encompass overall stewardship of their clients' financial well-being. In contrast, claiming to guarantee high returns could mislead clients, as all investments carry inherent risks and there are no certainties in the market. Managing personal assets may be a separate area of focus for advisers, but it does not pertain directly to their responsibilities towards clients.