While an overwhelming 86 per cent of financial advisors are positive about 2013, nearly two-thirds are sensing apprehension among their clients, according to an SEI Quick Poll.

Only 14 per cent of advisors expect 2013 to be worse than 2012, yet less than one per cent regarded their clients as optimistic about what the new year will bring.   

The difference of opinion between advisors and their clients is also reflected in the way advisors perceive the current economic situation. For example, 84 per cent said 2012 was a "good year" for their businesses and 75 per cent said they are better off than they were four years ago.

However, when asked how they thought clients would compare their current situation to four years ago, over half (55 per cent) of advisors anticipated that their clients would claim they are not better off.

"Whether it's real or perceived, advisors believe their clients have a different perception of the markets than the advisors do," said Kevin Crowe, head of product development, SEI Advisor Network.

Advisors were also quizzed on top fears and challenges for themselves and their clients in the coming year.

Nearly one-third (30 per cent) identified avoidance of the fiscal cliff as their clients' top priority, followed by positive financial markets (24 per cent), Congress working better together (15 per cent) and a reduced federal deficit (13 per cent).

By contrast, just one in 10 advisors cited the fiscal cliff as their biggest worry, while a third referred to the "mounting federal deficit" and economic uncertainty. A total of 15 per cent cited tax increases.

"With all of the news lately about the fiscal cliff, it's not surprising that clients seem more concerned with this issue than anything else," said Val Fernelius of Vantage Wealth Management in San Mateo, CA.  

The survey - completed by 275 financial advisors - "points to a need for clearer communication between advisors and clients about the economic outlook," SEI said.