Investors face a choice: human advisors or AI-driven platforms. This article compares Thrivent Independent Financial Advisors and the Mezzi AI platform to help you decide.
- Thrivent: Offers personalized financial planning, retirement strategies, and estate planning through human advisors. Fees range from 0.90% to 2.50% annually, based on Assets Under Management (AUM). Ideal for those seeking personalized, relationship-driven advice.
- Mezzi: Provides AI-powered investment management, tax optimization, and real-time insights. Costs $119/year for Premium or free for basic features. Best for tech-savvy, cost-conscious investors.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Thrivent Advisors | Mezzi Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | Human-guided, personalized advice | AI-driven, self-directed tools |
| Cost | 0.90%–2.50% AUM fees | $119/year (Premium) |
| Investment Focus | Broad (liquid & non-liquid assets) | Digital and investment accounts |
| Tax Planning | Comprehensive | Automated tax-loss harvesting |
| Support | Advisor meetings | 24/7 AI chat assistance |
| Best For | High-touch, complex needs | Low-cost, independent investors |
Choose Thrivent for in-depth, human-led planning or Mezzi for affordable, AI-powered efficiency.
Services and Features
Thrivent Advisor Services
Thrivent Independent Financial Advisors offer tailored wealth management solutions. As of December 31, 2023, they manage $179 billion in assets and serve 2.4 million clients. Their services cover a wide range of financial needs, including:
- Investment management
- Retirement planning
- Estate planning
- Tax strategies
- Insurance and annuities
- Small business planning
Mezzi Platform Tools
Mezzi delivers modern wealth management through its AI-powered platform, designed for self-directed investors. Key features include:
- Real-time AI Analysis: Provides investment insights and recommendations.
- Tax Optimization: Identifies opportunities to save on taxes.
- Portfolio Management: Offers account views and performance tracking.
- Family Collaboration: Enables multi-account management for families.
- Smart Account Grouping: Automatically categorizes investments.
"Building wealth should be available to every family." – Mezzi
To better understand their differences, here's a direct comparison of Thrivent and Mezzi's key features.
Service Comparison
| Feature | Thrivent Independent Advisors | Mezzi Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Approach | Personal advisor relationship | Self-directed with AI tools |
| Investment Strategy | Advisor-tailored strategy | AI-generated strategy |
| Tax Planning | Comprehensive tax strategies | Automated tax-loss harvesting |
| Account Management | Advisor-managed portfolios | User-controlled with AI insights |
| Client Support | Direct advisor access | AI-powered chat assistance |
| Asset Types | Full range, including insurance | Focus on investment accounts |
| Fee Structure | 0.90% – 2.50% annual fee | $119/year for Premium |
| Savings Potential | Varies by strategy | Average $1,000+ annual tax/fee savings |
Thrivent emphasizes advisor-led planning, offering personalized guidance during market fluctuations and complex financial decisions. In contrast, Mezzi focuses on empowering users with AI-driven insights and analytics, making it a cost-effective choice for independent investors. According to Mezzi's research, reducing fees on ETFs and mutual funds by just 1% could potentially add $186,877 to retirement savings.
AI vs Human Financial Advisors: Who Manages Wealth Better?
Client Experience
When comparing features, client interactions also reveal key differences in personalization and support.
Working with Thrivent Advisors
Thrivent Advisors focus on building long-term financial partnerships tailored to each client's needs. They start by evaluating your financial profile and then create a strategy just for you. Their support includes regular check-ins, portfolio reviews, guidance during market fluctuations, advanced financial planning, and faith-based advice if requested.
"Our advice is about more than just numbers - it's the start of a long-term partnership you can rely on, no matter how your life and goals may change." – Thrivent
Using Mezzi's AI Tools
Mezzi offers a self-directed investment platform powered by AI. As of February 2025, users can input details such as "$300K home equity" or specific retirement goals to receive customized recommendations. The platform provides real-time insights, tailored portfolios, and tax-saving strategies - all while leaving users in full control of their decisions.
The table below outlines how each platform approaches personalization.
Comparing Personalization Methods
| Aspect | Thrivent Advisors | Mezzi AI Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Assessment | In-depth personal consultation | AI-powered questionnaire |
| Ongoing Support | Regular advisor meetings and calls | 24/7 AI chat assistance |
| Planning Style | Detailed written recommendations | Real-time digital insights |
| Decision Making | Collaborative with advisor guidance | Self-directed with AI suggestions |
| Complex Situations | Dedicated planning for unique needs | Algorithm-based solutions |
| Account Management | Advisor-managed with client input | User-controlled with AI support |
Thrivent's advisors are well-suited for navigating complex scenarios like retirement planning or estate transitions, ensuring personalized care. On the other hand, Mezzi's AI platform thrives on delivering instant insights and automated optimizations, continuously monitoring for tax benefits and portfolio adjustments.
"Financial planning is personal. That's why our conversations focus on your unique values and goals." – Thrivent
Choosing between these options depends on how much personal interaction you want and the complexity of your financial needs. Thrivent emphasizes human connection, while Mezzi focuses on AI-driven efficiency, catering to different types of investors.
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Pricing
Understanding how fees are structured is crucial when deciding between personalized advisory services and AI-driven platforms.
Thrivent Fee Structure
Thrivent uses a tiered annual management fee system paired with a dedicated planning fee based on Assets Under Management (AUM). Here's a breakdown of the maximum fees for various AUM brackets:
| Assets Under Management | Annual Management Fee | Dedicated Planning Fee | Total Maximum Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to $99,999 | 2.00% | 0.80% | 2.80% |
| $100,000 – $249,999 | 1.85% | 0.75% | 2.60% |
| $250,000 – $499,999 | 1.70% | 0.70% | 2.40% |
| $500,000 – $999,999 | 1.55% | 0.60% | 2.15% |
| $1,000,000 – $2,999,999 | 1.45% | 0.33% | 1.78% |
| $3,000,000 – $4,999,999 | 1.25% | 0.20% | 1.45% |
| $5,000,000 – $9,999,999 | 1.00% | 0.10% | 1.10% |
| $10,000,000 and above | 0.90% | 0.05% | 0.95% |
Additional costs include fund operating expenses (ranging from 0.36% to 1.82%), transaction fees, and a $15 annual custodial fee for retirement accounts with balances under $50,000.
Next, let's look at how Mezzi's pricing compares.
Mezzi Pricing Plans
Mezzi keeps things simple with two straightforward options:
- Free Plan: $0 – Includes basic account views, insights, family collaboration features, and performance comparisons.
- Premium Membership: $119 per year – Offers AI chat assistance, risk discovery tools, advanced analysis, and optimization features.
Cost Analysis
Here’s an example to highlight the difference in costs:
For a $500,000 portfolio (Thrivent’s $500,000–$999,999 bracket), the annual management fee is 1.55% ($7,750), and the planning fee is 0.60% ($3,000), adding up to $10,750 annually. In comparison, Mezzi’s Premium Membership costs a flat $119 per year.
Mezzi suggests that saving just 1% on advisor fees could lead to over $1 million in savings over a 30-year period. Thrivent requires a minimum account balance of $25,000 for most managed accounts, with SMA accounts typically needing between $100,000 and $250,000. Mezzi, on the other hand, has no minimum investment requirements.
Investment Results
Thrivent Performance Data
As of January 31, 2025, Thrivent's funds show varied returns across different categories. Here's a quick breakdown of their 5-year performance:
- Large Cap Growth Fund: 15.59% return
- Large Cap Value Fund: 11.55% return
- Small Cap Stock Fund: 11.20% return
- Mid Cap Stock Fund: 10.05% return
For allocation funds, performance aligns with risk levels. Aggressive portfolios tend to deliver higher returns, as seen in the table below:
| Fund Type | 5-Year Return | 1-Year Return |
|---|---|---|
| Aggressive Allocation | 9.36% | 13.28% |
| Moderately Aggressive | 7.37% | 11.15% |
| Moderate Allocation | 6.17% | 8.92% |
| Conservative Allocation | 2.28% | 3.08% |
Mezzi Performance Data
Mezzi focuses on reducing costs and fees rather than active fund management. Users have reported finding over $1,000 in annual savings through the platform. Key benefits include:
- Identifying opportunities for tax-loss harvesting
- Streamlining portfolio fees
- Offering real-time performance insights
This approach contrasts sharply with Thrivent's active management style, creating a clear choice for investors based on their priorities.
Market Benchmark Comparison
How do these results stack up against market benchmarks?
Thrivent's actively managed funds show a mix of outcomes. For example, the Large Cap Growth Fund demonstrates strong performance in growth-driven markets. On the other hand, fixed-income funds like the Government Bond Fund (5-year return: –0.99%) and the Municipal Bond Fund (5-year return: –0.55%) have struggled in a rising interest rate environment.
Mezzi, with its focus on fees and taxes, doesn't align as closely with traditional performance metrics. Instead, it emphasizes cost savings and efficiency, offering a lower-cost alternative to traditional human-managed portfolios. This highlights the trade-off between personalized guidance and an AI-driven, cost-conscious approach.
Best Fit Clients
Let’s dive into which types of clients align best with each option, based on features and pricing.
When to Choose Thrivent
Thrivent Independent Financial Advisors are ideal for investors who value personalized guidance, especially during significant life transitions. Here's who they're best suited for:
High-Touch Investors
- Individuals looking for comprehensive financial planning
- People navigating major life events like retirement, receiving an inheritance, or changing careers
- Those who prefer in-person, relationship-focused service
"It's not just about retirement; it's about relationships, opportunities and legacy." - Jon Skov, Thrivent advisor
Clients with Complex Financial Needs
- Those juggling multiple financial goals that require coordinated planning
- Individuals needing help with estate planning or charitable giving strategies
- Investors who want integrated advice on insurance and investments
With over a century of experience and a client base of 2.3 million, Thrivent is well-suited for those seeking ongoing, personalized support throughout their financial journey.
When to Choose Mezzi
Mezzi’s AI-powered platform is a great fit for tech-savvy investors who prioritize efficiency and keeping costs low. It works particularly well for:
Self-Directed Investors
- People comfortable using digital tools and AI insights for decision-making
- Investors focused on minimizing fees and maximizing tax efficiency
- Those who appreciate real-time updates and the ability to make quick portfolio changes
Cost-Conscious Wealth Builders
- Individuals aiming to lower advisory fees
- People who can take advantage of tax-loss harvesting
- Investors managing multiple accounts who benefit from consolidated financial insights
These distinctions become even clearer when you compare the two side by side.
Making Your Choice
| Factor | Choose Thrivent If You… | Choose Mezzi If You… |
|---|---|---|
| Time Investment | Prefer delegating financial management | Enjoy a hands-on approach to managing your portfolio |
| Cost Sensitivity | Value personalized service over cost | Want to minimize fees |
| Decision Making | Need emotional support during market changes | Rely on data and AI-driven insights |
| Financial Complexity | Have diverse financial planning needs | Focus mainly on investment optimization |
Think about your priorities: Thrivent offers in-depth, personalized planning, while Mezzi provides streamlined, cost-efficient management.
"A Thrivent financial advisor can be a coach, an educator and a trusted ear - someone working in your best interest to help you pursue lifelong goals and make the most of all you've been given." - Thrivent
Final Comparison
Let's sum up the key differences between Thrivent and Mezzi based on their service models, pricing, and overall client experience.
Decision Factors
Thrivent focuses on human-led financial planning, while Mezzi leans into AI-driven wealth management. These differences shape the way each platform meets client needs.
Here's a quick breakdown of how they compare:
| Aspect | Thrivent | Mezzi |
|---|---|---|
| Service Model | Human advisor-led planning | AI-powered, self-directed tools |
| Cost Structure | Varied fee structures | Subscription-based model |
| Investment Approach | Holistic wealth management | Tech-focused investment tools |
Thrivent Advantages
Personalized Financial Planning
- Offers in-depth assessments and written recommendations for clients.
- Designs tailored retirement and estate strategies.
- Implements tax-conscious investment solutions.
Expert Guidance
- Portfolios are managed by licensed advisors.
- Builds long-term client relationships that adapt to life changes.
- Provides customized planning through Dedicated Planning Services.
Mezzi Advantages
Affordable Pricing
- Transparent subscription plans.
- No percentage-based fees on assets under management (AUM).
- Includes a Free tier for basic wealth management needs.
Smart Technology Features
- Real-time AI insights for investments.
- Automates tax-loss harvesting.
- Combines accounts efficiently with smart grouping tools.
