Video marketing is reshaping financial services, with 85% of all internet traffic expected to be video by 2025. Here's why it matters:
Key trends include personalized videos, short-form formats, AI-driven production, interactive content, and compliance-ready tools. Financial firms must leverage these strategies to acquire clients, improve retention, and stay competitive.
This shift isn’t optional - it’s essential for growth in 2025.
Personalized video content transforms generic financial messages into tailored experiences that resonate with individual clients. By tapping into customer data, financial advisors can craft videos that directly address a client’s unique financial goals, account details, and investment preferences. For instance, instead of sending out a standard retirement planning video, advisors can deliver a customized message that reflects a client’s actual portfolio performance and provides specific recommendations. This level of personalization is made possible through technology that automates the customization process.
Modern tools allow firms to produce thousands of unique videos by combining dynamic customer data with pre-recorded content. For example, a wealth management firm might create a core video about market trends and then seamlessly insert personalized details like the client’s name, portfolio value, and tailored asset allocation advice.
Personalized videos significantly boost engagement. When clients hear their name and see their specific account information in a video, they’re much more likely to watch it through to the end and act on the advice provided. This approach also simplifies complex financial topics - like tax-loss harvesting - by showing clients exactly how these strategies apply to their portfolios. The result? Longer viewing times and a stronger connection with the content.
In the financial sector, creating personalized video content comes with strict regulatory requirements. Agencies like the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), FINRA, and the SEC mandate that all marketing materials must be truthful, transparent, and non-deceptive.
"Creative marketing must comply with CFPB, FINRA, and SEC standards."
To stay compliant, firms need thorough review processes for video templates and data integration points. It’s also critical to include clear disclaimers, particularly when showcasing specific account performance or providing recommendations, to avoid any misinterpretation of future outcomes. These steps ensure that personalized videos align with both client expectations and regulatory guidelines.
Personalized video templates that pull real-time client data make it possible for even smaller firms to deliver a high level of customization. By integrating with CRM systems and financial platforms, these tools can automatically generate updated, client-specific videos. This allows firms to effectively target different client segments - whether it’s millennials, baby boomers, or high-net-worth individuals - ensuring each message feels personal and relevant.
This scalable approach not only enhances client communication but also delivers measurable business outcomes.
Investing in personalized video content can drive noticeable improvements in client acquisition and retention. These videos showcase the level of individualized attention clients can expect, helping financial advisors stand out while fostering long-term relationships.
"A precise assessment of ROI involves not just recognizing immediate success but understanding and forecasting the long-term impact of our digital strategies."
For financial firms working with Visora's GTM consulting services, personalized video content becomes a key tool for executing data-driven marketing campaigns. It helps build effective sales funnels that convert prospects into loyal, long-term clients.
Short-form and vertical video formats are reshaping how messages are delivered, especially in real-time. These quick, engaging videos - usually under 90 seconds - are designed to grab attention and make an impression fast. With people holding their phones vertically 94% of the time and over 80% of video content consumed on mobile devices, vertical videos naturally fit how we view content today.
For financial firms, this format is a game-changer. It simplifies complex offerings like mobile banking apps, investment tools, or payment solutions into digestible, engaging snippets. A quick demo or tutorial can go a long way in connecting with potential users.
"Short-form content is designed to deliver maximum impact in minimal time. It cuts to the chase, grabs attention instantly, and holds it just long enough to deliver a powerful message."
To make vertical videos effective, financial services should focus on clear visuals and text. Center the subject, use bold and readable fonts for captions, and ensure the content hooks viewers within the first few seconds.
Short-form videos are a proven tool for boosting engagement. Videos under 90 seconds hold a 50% viewer retention rate, and people spend an average of 1 hour and 16 minutes daily watching them. Plus, 75% of consumers prefer learning about products or services through video rather than text. Vertical formats, in particular, can increase engagement rates by 130% compared to horizontal ones. Social media platforms also give preference to short videos, amplifying their reach.
This trend aligns with microlearning - short, engaging lessons that break down complex topics into manageable pieces. For financial services, this means creating quick, impactful content on topics like retirement planning or investment strategies.
While short videos are great for grabbing attention, they must adhere to strict financial regulations. The SEC, FINRA, and FTC have specific guidelines that must be followed, especially since the brevity of these videos can sometimes oversimplify complex subjects. It's crucial to provide accurate, complete information with clear disclaimers.
Financial institutions must also comply with regulations like the Truth in Savings Act (TISA), Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA), and Fair Lending laws. Additionally, FDIC guidelines require all video content to be reviewed by compliance teams before publication. Developing clear social media policies and using monitoring tools can help ensure content meets these standards and is properly archived for audits.
"The number one thing I want you to take away from this is: if you talk about your strategy, if you talk about your investment holdings, if you talk about your performance, those are all things that are highly, highly regulated, and that is something that I have always been told, 'Just don't.'" – Nate Hoskin, CFP®
Short-form videos are not only effective but also efficient. They’re quicker and cheaper to produce than long-form content, making it easier for financial firms to maintain an active online presence. This format allows companies to create ongoing series on topics like investment tips or retirement strategies. Existing content, such as webinars or podcasts, can be repurposed into shorter clips, and viewer questions can be addressed in dedicated response videos. This approach keeps engagement high while testing new ideas quickly.
Short-form videos are delivering real results in client acquisition for financial services. For instance, 50% of investors say social media influences their choice of financial advisors, and 33% turn to online advice when evaluating professionals. Social media even plays a decisive role for 20% of people when selecting financial advisors. In one example, Nate Meyer, CFP® of N2, gained four new clients - worth a combined $6 million - from a single video in 2023.
Videos are also incredibly shareable, generating 1,200% more shares than text and images combined. Additionally, 72% of customers prefer learning about services through video, and using video can increase sales and conversions by up to 80%. For financial firms working with Visora's GTM consulting services, short-form videos are a cornerstone of effective marketing. They build brand visibility, attract qualified leads, and drive website traffic, all while helping establish credibility. By shifting from traditional marketing to education-focused content, financial advisors can provide free value, build trust, and grow their businesses on a larger scale.
Artificial intelligence is reshaping how financial services approach video content creation, making it easier for teams without technical skills to produce professional-grade videos. By automating tasks like editing, scene selection, and scriptwriting, AI has drastically shortened production timelines - from weeks to just days.
This technology handles everything from analyzing content needs to generating scripts, selecting visuals, and managing voiceovers or translations. As a result, financial firms can ensure consistent branding across all video content while freeing up creative teams to focus on storytelling and strategic content planning. These efficiencies make video production scalable and more cost-effective.
The results speak for themselves. Berlitz, for instance, created over 1,700 micro-videos in just six weeks, significantly cutting costs. Similarly, Zoom used AI tools to develop more than 200 micro-videos for training purposes in six months, reducing both production time and expenses.
One of the biggest hurdles for financial marketing teams is producing enough content to maintain engagement across multiple platforms. Traditional video production often demands large teams and substantial resources, making it tough to scale.
AI-powered tools address this challenge by slashing production time by 50% and costs by 40%. This means a single marketer can now handle tasks that previously required a full team. Beyond speed and cost, AI simplifies localization by enabling fast and accurate translations, allowing firms to deliver messages in multiple languages without hiring separate teams for each market. This is especially beneficial for financial advisors and fintech companies serving diverse client bases across regions.
For firms leveraging Visora's GTM consulting, AI video tools are integral to executing targeted strategies. They allow for the creation of personalized video content tailored to specific audience segments, whether aimed at individual investors, small business owners, or enterprise clients.
While AI offers remarkable production advantages, financial services must navigate a complex regulatory environment. The rules governing AI in financial services are a patchwork of federal initiatives, state laws, and industry guidelines.
In 2023, financial services invested around $35 billion in AI, with $21 billion coming from the banking sector alone. Compliance spending in the industry reached $270 billion annually in 2020, underscoring the importance of adhering to regulations.
Financial regulatory agencies generally do not issue regulations or guidance on specific technologies, but instead address the importance of effective risk management, governance, and controls regarding the use of technology, including AI, and the business activities that those technologies support.
To stay compliant, financial institutions must closely monitor evolving AI regulations and adjust their practices accordingly. This includes addressing issues like bias, data security, and transparency. Agencies like the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau require justification for AI-driven decisions, while the Federal Reserve and FINRA oversee AI systems to mitigate risks. Practical steps include auditing AI models regularly, using diverse datasets, establishing strong data governance, and ensuring systems provide transparency for regulators.
Beyond reducing costs and ensuring compliance, AI-driven video production delivers impressive returns on investment (ROI) and boosts client engagement. Personalized video content often far outperforms generic marketing materials.
According to McKinsey, applying generative AI to customer care functions can increase productivity by 30–40%. For example, one company saw a 14% improvement in resolution rates per hour, a 9% reduction in handling times, and higher customer satisfaction using generative AI. Similarly, Zendesk reports that its AI tools can boost productivity by 10%, potentially saving $146,000 annually.
The impact on client acquisition is equally compelling. SundaySky helped a financial institution increase savings contributions by 550% among clients who watched onboarding videos compared to those who didn’t. This demonstrates how personalized video content can inspire meaningful behavioral changes and deepen client engagement.
We see feedback where clients tell us the video helped them understand the program much better. As a result of that greater understanding, they engage deeper and bring in more assets to move up the ladder in the program.
AI also enhances lead qualification and prospect prioritization by turning raw data into actionable insights. This allows platforms to identify high-value prospects while automating early qualification steps, freeing human advisors to focus on more complex financial decisions. With 82% of executives planning to increase AI investments by 2025, financial firms adopting AI-powered video production today will gain a strong edge in client acquisition and retention.
Interactive videos invite viewers to actively engage, transforming passive watching into a hands-on experience. Unlike traditional videos, these allow users to click on elements, answer questions, input information, and follow personalized pathways - all within the video.
Financial services have embraced this technology faster than most. In fact, financial brands were behind 83% of interactive video projects. This format is reshaping how companies engage their audience, offering measurable results and smoother client interactions.
Interactive videos outperform standard ones in key metrics. They achieve 4× higher click-through rates on calls-to-action and a 43% higher completion rate. This is because they empower viewers to explore content at their own pace - whether it’s learning about specific investment options or using built-in calculators to estimate returns.
These videos also excel at identifying high-intent leads. For example, if a viewer clicks on a segment about retirement planning or downloads a guide, financial firms can use this behavior to qualify leads and prioritize follow-up efforts.
Creating interactive video content for financial services comes with strict regulatory requirements. Organizations like FINRA ensure that all communications are fair, balanced, and compliant. As one regulatory notice emphasizes:
Social Media may be a new medium, but FINRA's rules on communicating with the public are still applicable.
To stay compliant, financial firms must:
Interactive videos are versatile and scalable, making them ideal for various client segments and service lines. Financial advisors can create templated experiences for scenarios like retirement planning or portfolio reviews, then tweak these templates for specific clients or groups.
They’re also a game-changer for client onboarding. These videos can guide new customers through account setup while collecting necessary details. For fintech companies or fractional CFOs using Visora's GTM consulting services, interactive videos simplify the explanation of complex tools or processes. This self-service approach allows sales teams to focus on well-qualified leads, optimizing their efforts and delivering measurable results.
The return on investment for interactive videos in financial services is hard to ignore. These videos have driven 11× more credit card applications and achieved a 126% higher click-through rate than standard videos. In the mortgage sector, they reduced call center demand by 73%, as customers used interactive features to self-serve for forbearance options.
A seamless digital experience is critical in financial services, and interactive videos deliver personalized engagement that supports client understanding of saving, spending, and investing.
For financial services companies, creating video content comes with a unique challenge: balancing engaging storytelling with strict regulatory requirements. By 2025, 89% of businesses are expected to use video as a marketing tool. However, financial firms must navigate this space carefully, ensuring their video solutions are built with compliance in mind.
The regulatory environment is intricate and ever-changing. For instance, FINRA Rule 2210 imposes strict guidelines on approval, content, and recordkeeping for financial communications. Before a video reaches its audience, it must meet these standards, often slowing down the marketing process. As FINRA explains:
FINRA's job is to protect investors and promote market integrity by monitoring broker-dealer conduct.
This oversight extends to all forms of digital communication, including social media. Platforms like Twitter and TikTok are not exempt from compliance rules, as FINRA has made clear.
To tackle these challenges, financial firms must stay firmly aligned with U.S. regulatory requirements. Producing compliant video content means understanding multiple regulatory frameworks and adhering to strict standards. Communications must be fair, balanced, and complete. Firms also need robust internal processes, where compliance supervisors review all retail communications before they are published.
Key practices include maintaining a professional tone, focusing on education rather than promotion, including necessary risk disclosures when discussing financial products, and regularly updating content to align with current regulations and market conditions.
Training plays a critical role in ensuring team members understand communication rules. This is especially important as 91% of B2B marketers now integrate AI into video production.
Modern tools are transforming how financial organizations manage compliance. AI-powered solutions can transcribe video and audio content, flag potential compliance risks, and highlight their exact location within the video. This automation reduces the manual workload while maintaining adherence to regulatory standards.
Several financial institutions have already reaped the benefits of scaling compliance processes. For example, a global bank automated its approval workflows on Microsoft Teams, ensuring compliance with SEC Rule 17a-4(b). This not only improved audit response times but also strengthened compliance management. Similarly, a U.S. credit union adopted compliance software aligned with IROCC and AML requirements, enabling automated monitoring that reduced workloads and encouraged a proactive approach to compliance.
These platforms streamline reviews with centralized approvals, customizable workflows, and secure guest access. They also offer detailed activity logs and enterprise-grade security, fostering seamless collaboration between marketing and compliance teams.
Compliance-ready videos do more than just meet regulatory standards - they also drive measurable business results. Marketers report that short-form videos yield the highest ROI (71%), the highest engagement (66%), and the most leads (60%). By ensuring videos are compliant from the start, firms can deploy content more quickly and capitalize on more opportunities.
One fintech company, for example, implemented compliance software to manage communications across platforms like Zoom and Slack. With advanced risk detection, they met compliance requirements without stifling innovation, helping them stay competitive.
Embedding compliance into the creative process from the beginning is key. As AI and compliance expert Vall Herard puts it:
When done right, video can be both highly effective and fully compliant - it's just a matter of having the right tools and processes in place.
For financial advisors, fractional CFOs, and fintech companies partnering with Visora's GTM consulting services, compliance-ready video solutions enable confident content creation. These tools help achieve customer acquisition goals while meeting all regulatory demands, allowing marketing teams to focus on strategy and creativity rather than getting bogged down by compliance hurdles.
Gone are the days when financial services firms could rely on just one platform to connect with their audience. Today, reaching customers effectively means embracing multi-channel video distribution. Why? Because it not only expands your reach but also drives deeper engagement. In fact, multi-channel engagement can increase customer lifetime value by 30%. And with conversions now requiring 18 touchpoints across 4–5 channels, it’s clear that meeting your audience where they are is no longer optional - it’s essential.
Using multiple channels to distribute video content can dramatically boost engagement. For instance, LinkedIn videos posted twice a week achieve a 3.44% engagement rate, which is double that of other formats. Plus, social videos are shared a staggering 1,200% more than text or image posts.
Take Chime, for example. They use Facebook to share educational videos and blog links where customers discuss financial lessons they wish they’d learned earlier. Email is another powerhouse in this space, with 4 billion users globally in 2020 - a number expected to grow to 4.6 billion by 2025. Companies like H&R Block take full advantage of email, sharing video content on tax services and sending reminders about key tax deadlines.
Scaling video distribution across multiple channels is no small feat, but it’s entirely achievable with the right strategy. Garanti Bank is a great example. They target different customer segments on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and even text messaging, which has helped them maintain a 24% average growth in loans and a 31% rise in net income over five years.
Success here requires a thoughtful framework. As Peppers & Rogers Group points out:
"The objective of multichannel strategy should be to redefine the distribution model based on customer insight. This doesn't automatically mean a migration strategy to remote or cost-efficient channels. It requires an understanding of different customer groups and how they prefer to interact with the bank."
Tools like a "segment-channel-product matrix" can help financial services firms pinpoint gaps between their current capabilities and what’s needed to reach their audience effectively. This ensures video content is tailored to the right people on the right platforms.
As you scale your distribution efforts, compliance with U.S. financial regulations becomes even more critical. Financial institutions must adhere to consumer protection laws across all channels, including social media. This means having a robust risk management program in place that involves compliance, legal, technology, and marketing teams. These teams work together to identify, measure, and control risks.
Another key requirement? Archiving all business communications, including video content. Many firms partner with third-party providers to ensure proper social media archiving.
The return on investment from multi-channel video distribution is undeniable. A whopping 93% of marketers say video marketing has delivered positive ROI, and 87% of consumers report being convinced to purchase a product or service after watching a video. On top of that, 83% of people want to see more video content from brands.
Quicken Loans takes full advantage of this by using platforms like YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Facebook, and Instagram to attract new customers. Fidelity Investments similarly uses targeted ads on Google and Facebook to promote retirement and financial planning services, tailoring their messaging to resonate with different age groups.
For financial advisors, fractional CFOs, and fintech companies collaborating with Visora's GTM consulting services, multi-channel video distribution is a game-changer. By running data-driven campaigns across various platforms, these firms can maximize their video reach while staying fully compliant with regulatory requirements.
As video marketing evolves, data analytics has become the backbone for refining strategies and improving results. It’s no longer enough to create engaging content - understanding how it performs is essential for success. Daniel Kushner, CEO of Oktopost, sums it up perfectly:
"You can't improve what you can't measure".
Tracking engagement metrics is key to understanding how audiences interact with your videos. While views indicate how many people clicked "play", deeper metrics like shares, likes, comments, click-through rates, and watch time reveal whether your content truly resonated.
Social shares, in particular, are a powerful indicator. They act as endorsements, building trust and expanding reach. For instance, 48% of Facebook video watch time comes from shared content, demonstrating how engaged viewers can amplify your message.
Audience retention analysis offers another layer of insight. By studying when viewers drop off or stay engaged, marketers can fine-tune their messaging for better results. In fact, by 2025, around 60% of marketers plan to focus on metrics like likes and shares to measure campaign effectiveness. For financial advisors and fintech firms, this means creating content that connects emotionally and delivers value, rather than simply chasing views.
As financial services firms expand their video marketing efforts, understanding performance data becomes even more critical. Metrics like Average View Duration (AVD) provide a clear picture of how well content holds attention. For example, an AVD of 5–6 minutes on a 10-minute retirement planning video signals strong engagement.
Metric | What It Reveals | How to Calculate | Good Performance |
---|---|---|---|
Average View Duration | Content engagement level | Total Watch Time ÷ Total Number of Plays | 50–60% of total video length |
Audience Retention Rate | Viewer retention per moment | (Viewers at specific time ÷ Total viewers who started) × 100 | Gradual decline is ideal |
Interaction Rate | CTA click performance | (Total Clicks ÷ Total Views of element) × 100 | 1–5% for in-video CTAs |
Metrics like interaction rates, which measure clicks on calls-to-action (CTAs), are particularly useful. A typical click-through rate for in-video CTAs ranges from 1–5%, though this can vary by industry. High replay rates can also highlight segments that either resonate strongly or confuse viewers, offering valuable clues for improvement.
By refining these metrics, financial services firms can directly impact ROI and client acquisition, ensuring their video strategies are both scalable and effective.
Data analytics doesn’t just measure performance - it drives results. By identifying which videos lead to valuable actions, financial firms can adjust their strategies to maximize impact. Comments, for example, provide a window into audience sentiment, revealing client concerns and preferences that can guide future content.
Data also informs video length. Research shows viewers watch about 82% of how-to videos under one minute and over 50% of videos between one and thirty minutes. This helps firms tailor content length based on complexity. A quick explainer might perform best under a minute, while more detailed guides can sustain longer engagement.
For financial advisors, fractional CFOs, and fintech companies, platforms like Visora leverage these insights to refine video campaigns. By tracking engagement and conversion metrics, firms can continuously optimize their strategies for better client acquisition.
As Gaurav Sharma, Founder & Digital Marketing Consultant at Attrock, advises:
"Focus on the story and not on conversions. The best videos connect with your viewers, provide them value, and good storytelling can help you form meaningful connections".
With data analytics, financial services firms can strike the right balance - crafting stories that resonate while delivering measurable results. These insights ensure their videos not only engage but also drive meaningful outcomes.
Trust is the backbone of any successful financial relationship - after all, clients are handing over their life savings. Video content has emerged as a powerful tool for establishing credibility, much like personalization and interactive content. It not only reinforces your expertise but also helps build a sense of reliability and connection.
Video content puts a face to your firm, making it feel more approachable and trustworthy. Unlike static marketing materials, videos allow potential clients to see and connect with the people behind the business. That human connection can go a long way toward creating a sense of security.
And the data backs this up. A whopping 91% of people say video helps them trust a brand, and 72% report that positive testimonials make them feel more confident in a business. For financial advisors, fractional CFOs, and fintech companies, this makes video an invaluable tool for forming genuine connections with potential clients.
Some of the most effective types of video content include:
Educational videos are another excellent option. They not only demonstrate expertise but also make complex financial topics easier to understand. For example, animated explainer videos can simplify investment concepts, while whiteboard-style videos can visually illustrate tax laws or financial strategies. Step-by-step guides are also helpful for walking clients through processes like mortgage applications or retirement planning.
When creating video content for financial services, compliance is non-negotiable. Regulatory bodies like the SEC, FINRA, and FTC have strict guidelines, so it's essential to include disclaimers and maintain thorough records.
To stay on the right side of the law:
By following these steps, financial firms can confidently produce video content without risking regulatory violations.
Once compliance is under control, scaling your video efforts becomes much more manageable. Video content is highly versatile and can address multiple client segments at once. For instance, educational videos on topics like budgeting, retirement planning, or investment strategies can resonate with a wide audience, positioning your firm as a trusted source of knowledge.
Live video sessions are another great way to connect. They allow audiences to ask questions and get immediate answers, fostering real-time interaction and building trust. Additionally, brand storytelling through video creates emotional connections by showcasing your firm’s values, and these videos can be repurposed across various platforms.
The impact of video on client acquisition and ROI is undeniable. Studies show that people retain 95% of a message when they see it in a video, compared to just 10% when reading text. What’s more, 88% of consumers have been persuaded to make a purchase after watching a video, and 54% of marketers say video is their most effective content type.
Take this example: In early 2023, a financial advisor from Carson Group’s Emerging Advisor Growth Accelerator program began posting videos on social media. Shortly after, a viewer reached out and became a client because they felt an immediate connection.
J.J. Peller, a respected industry voice, sums it up well:
The more often people hear and see you on video sharing your ideas and wisdom, the more comfortable they'll become with you. And the more comfortable someone becomes with you, the more likely they are to feel confident in hiring you to be their financial advisor and entrusting you with their entire financial lives.
When paired with lead-nurturing strategies, video content can significantly boost conversion rates. For example, SEO leads in the financial sector have a close rate of 14.6%, compared to just 1.7% for outbound leads. Optimized videos not only capture high-converting organic traffic but also drive meaningful results.
For firms using platforms like Visora, video becomes a cornerstone of a well-rounded marketing strategy. By integrating authority-building videos with broader efforts, financial services companies can create systems that not only foster trust but also deliver measurable growth.
Live streaming is changing the way financial advisors connect with clients by enabling real-time conversations. With about one-third of advisors now engaging with most of their clients exclusively through virtual channels, live streaming feels like a natural progression in client interaction.
In 2023, the global live streaming market reached a staggering $1.35 trillion. Recognizing its potential, industry leaders like Citibank and Bank of America have embraced live video for customer support and virtual financial consultations. This growing trend highlights the power of live streaming to create meaningful, real-time connections.
Live streaming offers something recorded videos can't - immediacy. It transforms a passive viewing experience into an interactive dialogue, allowing clients to ask questions and get answers on the spot. Hosting live Q&A sessions, for example, fosters a two-way exchange that builds trust and engagement.
The secret to successful live streams lies in keeping the audience involved. Features like polls, live captions, and Q&A tools encourage participation. Financial advisors can use this format to deliver market updates, simplify complex investment strategies, or introduce new financial products - all while responding to client comments and questions in real time.
To maximize participation, consider offering incentives. After the session, share the recording, address any unanswered questions, and promote future events to extend the session's impact beyond the live broadcast.
While live streaming is a fantastic engagement tool, it must comply with strict financial regulations. Social media, including live streaming, is treated as a form of electronic communication, subject to the same rules. To stay compliant, financial professionals should establish clear guidelines and conduct pre-broadcast reviews. This includes outlining topics and preparing any necessary disclaimers ahead of time.
Firms must also ensure employees' social media activity aligns with legal and regulatory standards. This requires constant monitoring and, in some cases, limiting live streaming to non-financial topics. Providing clear instructions on managing viewer comments is also essential.
As compliance expert Joanna Belbey advises:
Carefully interpret the existing rules and then document your rationale for your decisions. Your regulator may not agree with your decision, but your thoughtfulness will be appreciated in the event of an exam.
Beyond engagement, live streaming scales incredibly well for financial services. Unlike one-on-one meetings, a single live session can reach hundreds or even thousands of clients at once. This makes it ideal for delivering market insights, educational content, or product updates to a broad audience.
As younger clients increasingly expect convenient, virtual access to advisors, scaling live streaming efforts will become even more critical for growth. To succeed, firms should focus on building trust and consistency - schedule regular broadcasts, maintain open communication, and actively listen during sessions.
Scaling doesn’t mean losing the personal touch. Well-crafted live streams can establish trust and highlight your value to clients. For instance, a single educational session on retirement planning could appeal to multiple client segments while positioning your firm as a reliable source of expertise.
To measure the ROI of live streaming, start by defining clear goals and tracking outcomes. As livestreaming expert Lev Cribb puts it:
Depending on your ultimate desired outcome, livestreaming can be a vehicle or a destination.
In financial services, live streaming is particularly effective for generating leads and acquiring new clients. Compare the benefits - like engagement and lead generation - against production and promotion costs to assess its value.
To get the most out of each session, repurpose live streams into podcasts, video clips, or written articles. This approach amplifies the reach of your content and integrates it into your broader marketing strategy.
For financial firms with well-rounded marketing plans, live streaming is an excellent way to attract and retain clients. It creates genuine touchpoints that build trust and deliver measurable results when aligned with other marketing efforts.
As financial services continue to embrace advanced video strategies, making content accessible and inclusive has become a major focus for 2025. This isn't just about doing the right thing - it's also about reaching a significant audience. Nearly 25% of Americans live with disabilities, representing a market worth approximately $13 trillion in spending power. With 73% of people wanting or needing accessibility features, incorporating these elements is no longer optional if you want to connect with a broad audience.
Accessible video content ensures that everyone, including individuals with disabilities, can fully engage with financial services. Features like captions, audio descriptions, and transcripts make this possible. Consider this: videos with captions are 80% more likely to be watched, benefiting not only those with hearing impairments but also non-native speakers and viewers in quiet environments.
When it comes to accessibility, compliance is crucial. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), financial videos must include tools that address visual, auditory, and cognitive impairments. While the ADA doesn’t specifically outline requirements for online video, Titles II and III mandate "supporting features" to ensure equal access.
Failing to meet these standards can have serious consequences. According to the State of Digital Accessibility Report, 57% of financial services professionals faced legal action over digital accessibility issues in the past year alone. Non-compliance can lead to lawsuits, hefty settlements, and damage to your brand’s reputation.
To avoid these pitfalls, financial firms should follow the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). These guidelines outline how to create inclusive digital experiences, including closed captions that can be toggled on or off, audio descriptions for visual content, and transcripts for all videos.
Accessible videos aren’t just about compliance - they’re also a powerful way to boost engagement. Research shows that videos are more effective at grabbing attention and inspiring action compared to other content types, and this effect is amplified when accessibility is prioritized.
The numbers speak for themselves. Around 11.5 million Americans experience hearing loss, and nearly 12 million individuals aged 40 and older have vision impairments. Accessibility features like captions and audio descriptions make it possible for these audiences to engage meaningfully with your content. Captions, for instance, are invaluable not just for those with hearing impairments but also for non-native English speakers and people watching in noise-sensitive settings. Similarly, audio descriptions allow visually impaired viewers to grasp critical visual details, such as charts or graphs.
By integrating accessibility features, financial advisors can build stronger connections with their clients. When clients see their needs thoughtfully addressed, it reflects care and attention to detail - qualities that are highly valued in the financial sector. This level of engagement fosters trust and lays the groundwork for scalable, efficient content production.
Once accessibility workflows are established, creating inclusive video content becomes a seamless and cost-effective process. Planning for accessibility from the outset ensures high-quality features and minimizes additional expenses.
Content Type | Captions | Transcript | Audio Description |
---|---|---|---|
Pre-recorded Multimedia | Required | Recommended | Required |
Pre-recorded Video-only | Not Applicable | Recommended | Required |
Live Multimedia | Required | Not Applicable | Optional |
Modern production tools make it easier than ever to integrate accessibility features. Professional captioning services and automated tools handle the technical aspects, allowing your team to focus on crafting engaging financial content. For firms regularly producing updates, educational videos, or product explainers, consistent accessibility standards ensure every piece of content meets compliance requirements while reaching the widest possible audience.
This streamlined approach not only simplifies content creation but also enhances your market performance by making your videos accessible to everyone.
The benefits of accessible video content extend well beyond compliance. Accessible videos improve SEO, enhance user engagement, and strengthen your brand’s reputation.
By prioritizing inclusive design, businesses can reach a broader audience, enhance user experience, strengthen brand reputation, comply with regulations, and improve SEO. In a competitive digital landscape, embracing accessibility isn't just the right thing to do - it's the smart thing to do for sustainable growth and ROI.
The potential for client acquisition is also significant. Accessible content demonstrates social responsibility and sets your brand apart. Clients with disabilities, along with their families, are more likely to choose financial professionals who accommodate their needs. This not only builds trust but can also lead to valuable referrals within communities that value inclusivity.
Short-form and long-form videos deliver distinct results across key metrics, making it essential to understand their differences when shaping your marketing strategy. Factors like engagement, production costs, and compliance challenges all play a role in determining which format aligns best with your financial marketing goals.
Engagement rates clearly favor short-form videos. These videos generate 2.5 times more engagement than long-form ones, with 66% of marketers agreeing that short-form content drives the highest engagement among all formats. Completion rates further highlight their effectiveness: 59% of short-form videos are watched for 41–80% of their duration, while 30% achieve an average watch rate exceeding 81%.
Platforms like TikTok and Instagram showcase this trend. TikTok boasts an average follower engagement rate of 4.2%, while Instagram finance brands see a 1.3% engagement rate. However, Instagram Reels outperform other post types with 49% higher engagement.
"Short-form videos are no longer a trend but a fundamental shift in how brands engage audiences. With skyrocketing engagement rates, higher ROI, and high virality potential, brands must prioritize short-form content and follow a proper video marketing guide." – Firework
Production costs also tilt in favor of short-form content. These videos are less expensive to produce, making them ideal for quick, high-impact campaigns.
Compliance challenges affect both formats, but in different ways. Short-form videos risk oversimplifying complex financial products, requiring creative compliance strategies to strike the right balance.
Aspect | Short-Form Videos | Long-Form Videos |
---|---|---|
Engagement Rate | 2.5× higher than long-form | Lower engagement but fosters deeper connections |
Completion Rate | 59% watched for 41–80% of their length | Often struggles to hold viewer attention |
Production Cost | $1,000–$5,000 per minute (lower overall cost) | $1,000–$5,000 per minute (higher overall cost) |
ROI Performance | 31% of marketers report highest ROI | Offers moderate ROI; better for SEO |
Compliance Complexity | Greater risk of oversimplification | Allows for more detailed disclosures |
Best Platforms | TikTok and Instagram Reels | YouTube and company websites |
Audience Acquisition | 93% effective for reaching new audiences | More effective at retaining existing audiences |
A smart approach often combines both formats. Short-form videos grab attention quickly, while long-form content provides detailed information, making it ideal for nurturing deeper connections.
Mobile optimization enhances the appeal of short-form videos even further. Designed for easy viewing on mobile devices, these videos thrive on social platforms. With 85% of mobile users watching videos on mute, adding subtitles can significantly improve performance.
The rise of video marketing in financial services - up 95% since 2021 - has made short-form videos a cost-effective tool for customer acquisition. For financial advisors and fintech companies, this format offers a lower cost per acquisition compared to traditional methods, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious campaigns.
The financial services industry is changing fast, and video marketing is proving to be a key tool for staying ahead in 2025. The numbers speak for themselves: over 90% of businesses now use video marketing, and it consistently delivers strong ROI.
Marketers are seeing real results with video content. Eighty-seven percent report increased lead generation, and the same percentage credit it with driving direct sales. On top of that, 96% say video has boosted brand awareness, while 99% confirm it helps users better understand their products or services.
These impressive stats highlight a broader shift in the industry, but they also underscore specific challenges. For example, 80% of customers in 2025 expect personalized services from financial firms. Video marketing addresses this by allowing businesses to create customized content that simplifies complex financial topics and strengthens connections with their audience.
Consumer preferences are shifting heavily toward video. In 2025, 83% of consumers want to see more video content from brands, and 78% prefer to learn about products or services through short videos. With short-form video projected to make up 90% of internet traffic by 2025, financial firms can't afford to ignore this growing trend.
Beyond engagement, video marketing helps cut costs by reducing support inquiries and improving client communication. Eighty-eight percent of marketers say video enhances user understanding of products, and 66% report fewer support queries as a result.
To take advantage of these trends, financial services firms need expertise in navigating both regulatory requirements and modern marketing strategies. That’s where Visora comes in. With a proven track record of working with Fortune 500 companies and generating over $70 million in pipeline for financial services partners, Visora offers streamlined video strategies designed to simplify compliance and drive measurable growth - all at a pace that keeps up with today’s demands.
Now is the time to embrace video marketing, meet evolving consumer expectations, and secure your place in the future of digital communication.
To ensure compliance when using AI-driven video production tools, financial services companies need to establish clear guidelines that align with industry standards, such as those outlined by FINRA and SEC. Regularly auditing AI-generated content and applying explainability techniques can help uncover and address any potential compliance risks.
Using AI tools specifically designed for compliance, like automated content review systems or risk assessment tools, can make the process more efficient. Staying updated on regulatory changes and embedding compliance checks directly into your video production workflow are also key steps to maintaining adherence to industry requirements.
Short-form video content has become a powerful tool for financial services, especially in today’s fast-moving digital world. These videos, typically lasting less than 60 seconds, are perfect for platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts. Their short length makes them engaging and easy to digest, which is great for capturing attention, breaking down complex financial topics, and boosting brand visibility among busy audiences.
On the other hand, long-form content works better for diving deeper into topics, showcasing detailed product features, or providing educational material to build trust with clients. While both formats have their strengths, short-form videos shine when it comes to sparking quick engagement, particularly among younger, tech-savvy viewers who favor concise, snackable content.
Measuring the return on investment (ROI) of video marketing is crucial for financial firms to ensure their efforts deliver results and align with their business objectives. Here's how to effectively assess ROI:
By combining these strategies, financial firms can clearly see how video marketing contributes to their overall success.