As a CFA charterholder, you are required to adhere to the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct. One of the key responsibilities is the duty of suitability. This duty mandates that members must ensure their recommendations align with the needs and circumstances of their clients. Consider the following scenario:
A financial advisor is meeting with a new client to discuss potential investment strategies. The client expresses a preference for high-risk investments but is unsure of their financial objectives. What should the financial advisor prioritize in this situation?