Peter Cundill, of Cundill Investment Research, was given the award for fund manager of the year at the 2003 Canadian Investment Awards gala last night in Toronto.

The awards identify the leading investment management companies and managers, as well as various marketing, service, education, philanthropy and technology initiatives within financial services industry.

A committee of 17 industry analysts voted on awards for 23 categories. Cundill was the analysts’ choice for fund manager of the year.

The 2003 analysts’ choice for career achievement was Dominic D’Alesandro, CEO, Manulife Financial Corp.

The analysts’ choice for fund company of the year was AIM Trimark Investments. That award was seconded by Canada’s advisor community who selected AIM Trimark as fund company of the year in an online poll.

Canadian investors selected Fidelity Investments Canada Ltd. as their choice for fund company of the year.

In addition to the analyst, advisor and investor wards, hundreds of submissions are voted on by industry peer groups of executives, journalists, strategic partners and providers. Some highlights of the 11 Special Jury Awards Include:

  • Marketing Award for Best Overall Campaign: ‘Hockey Cards’ by AGF Funds Inc.;
  • Imagine Community Investment Award: Investors Group;
  • Best Use of Technology: Fidelity Portfolio Pro by Fidelity Investments Canada Ltd.;
  • Best Overall Initiative: WorldPort Technology Suite by WORLDSOURCE Financial Management; and
  • YMCA Investment in Values Challenge Awards: AEGON Capital Mgmt and Scotia Cassels.

“For 2004, at our 10th Anniversary Gala, the CIA will introduce a new labour-sponsored fund category and work with new analysts and other financial services committees with very specific expertise to evaluate new criteria. As a result, we expect to see more advisor and distribution oriented award recognition to compliment our existing program as a reflection of the consolidating and merging financial services landscape, which is likely ongoing with possible bank merges in the future.” said Sabine Steinbrecher, event founder and manager, Canadian Investment Awards & Gala.

Steinbrecher added that next year’s gala will take place on Dec. 3, 2004 at Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto.

For detailed information on all 40 awards, a complete list of winners, as well as on voting committees, juries, categories, criteria and methodology go to www.investmentawards.com.