Announcing 12 Days of Finance Winner: Robert Kiyosaki

Mr. Robert Kiyosaki enlightened me with his easy and simple to understand financial education. I am so grateful and I thank him.

-Alwed E.

After 31 days of voting, Go Banking Rates readers have voiced their opinions, and we heard them loud and clear. Our 12 Days of Finance poll included some of the biggest names in financial expertise, as well as a few underdogs, but the fans ultimately chose Robert Kiyosaki as the most popular finance expert of 2011.

Kiyosaki, synonymous with the “Rich Dad” empire, should be proud to have such a loyal–and expansive–following. Claiming close to 42 percent of the votes, Robert Kiyosaki was the clear winner.

Why Is Robert Kiyosaki the Most Popular Finance Expert?

Kiyosaki’s advice is unconventional, to say the least, and often incites a passionate response, whether in agreement or opposition. So how did he manage to claim such a large portion of the votes?

The unorthodox nature of the Rich Dad ideology just may be the key to it’s popularity.

In a time of continued unemployment and market downturn, Americans are abandoning the conventional avenues to achieving wealth and embracing Kiyosaki’s fearless, entrepreneurial approach. It certainly isn’t the right path for everyone, but as Rich Dad fans attest, it definitely works for them.

Special Recognition to the Runner-Ups

Though Kiyosaki won by a large margin, there were a couple of other experts on our list who also boast a very large and passionate fan base as well. Here’s what their followers had to say.

2nd Place: David Bach

David Bach came in second place with just over 28 percent of the votes.

I give all female college graduates I know, including both of my darling daughters, David Bach’s book “Smart Women Finish Rich”! an amazing book and the kind of information/education about money that women RARELY get! Thank you David!

-Cynthia R.

David Bach is a personal favorite, automating your financial plan is something everyone should do.

-Michael G.

I truly enjoyed reading David Bachs books, Fight For Your Money and Debt Free For Life. Learned a great deal and as a result of the books, I put his plan into action and as a result my credit score jumped 57 points. Hard work and diligence pays off every time.

-Mildred J.

3rd Place: Jeff Yeager

Jeff Yeager took the third spot with over 8 percent of the votes, an impressive feat considering his much smaller (but obviously loyal) following.

I voted for Jeff Yeager because he delivers his helpful, practical advice like a wise uncle with a touch of humor. Very refreshing in this age of louder-faster-heavier.

-Carol W.

I love Jeff Yeager! He is a much realer person to me than the rest of them! He doesn’t have any crazy formulas to follow or anything! I compare his philosophy to dieting! Eat less, move more, and you will lose weight! Jeff- If you don’t need it, don’t buy it!

-Jessica M. C.

Go Jeff Yeager, he has engaged AARP members with his witty and practical advice. Thanks for tips I can use right now!

-Christina C.

Learn More About These Personal Finance Experts

Whether the results of this poll have you surprised, delighted or pissed off, stay tuned this month to get an in depth look into the personal finance philosophies of our top three winners. Members of the GBR team will be reviewing the books that made Robert Kiyosaki, David Bach and Jeff Yeager the household names they’ve become.