facebookWhen does it make sense to switch from a robo-advisor to DIY ETFs? - Seedly

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snowlearning

08 Oct 2026

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Robo-Advisors

When does it make sense to switch from a robo-advisor to DIY ETFs?

At what portfolio size did DIY investing start to feel worth the extra effort for you? Or is the convenience of a robo-advisor still worth paying for even with a larger portfolio?

Discussion (8)

What are your thoughts?

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What is the hassle of buying urself? isn't just a recurring order on ur trading platform?

WWSS

18d ago

Community Manager at Seedly

Hey snowlearning!

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I think there isn’t really a fixed portfolio size. But when the robo-advisor management fee starts becoming a meaningful amount compared with what you’d pay to buy ETFs yourself, and you’re comfortable managing the portfolio, I think that's when you could actively switch. I would compare brokerage fees, FX costs, custody model and market access too, since those can add up for long-term investing. We've prepared a brokerage guide on SingSaver on comparing the different options: https://www.singsaver.com.sg/investment/blog/be...

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Hope this helps!

Personally, I wouldn't say there's a fixed portfolio size where you must switch. Maybe around $30k–$50k is a good point to see whether DIY makes sense for you. Robo-advisors are still worth considering if you prefer a hands-off approach.

I will switch when I see that the robos no longer are doing what they had set out to do in the first...

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