This tool developed by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), a US-based organisation that regulates broker-dealers. The tool is designed for investors and finance professionals to evaluate the costs associated with mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and exchange-traded products (ETPs).

This online tool allows users to compare various funds based on their fees and expenses, enabling them to make more informed investment decisions. Finance professionals can use the tool to assist clients in understanding the long-term costs of different investment products and how those costs can impact returns over time.

The FINRA Fund Analyzer is particularly useful for analysing the effect of ongoing fees, front-end and back-end loads, and other expenses that may affect an investment portfolio. The tool generates projections of future savings or losses based on different cost structures, helping finance professionals provide clear guidance to clients on which funds may offer better cost-efficiency.

Targeted primarily at retail investors and financial advisers, the tool supports the decision-making process by providing transparent cost breakdowns. It is also relevant for those conducting due diligence on behalf of clients who are focused on minimising costs over the long term.

For finance professionals, the tool simplifies the comparison of up to three funds side by side, presenting clear data on expense ratios, share classes, and historical performance metrics. This allows for more efficient fund selection, ensuring that clients are directed towards investment products that align with their financial goals and risk tolerance.

While the tool is US-based, its analysis of fund fees and expenses can still be useful for UK and Australian finance professionals when considering funds with similar fee structures or when educating clients on the importance of fee transparency in investment products.

In conclusion, the FINRA Fund Analyzer offers a valuable resource for finance professionals who seek to provide clients with detailed insights into fund costs, supporting better-informed investment decisions. Its fee-focused analysis is essential for those advising on portfolio efficiency and long-term investment strategies.