June 2007

Comment & Insight

Despite discouraging words from the Canada Revenue Agency, charitable donation tax shelter schemes are brazenly operating in Canada. In Vancouver, at least a half-dozen schemes…

But the BCSC has indicated it may opt out of this part of the registration reform project

I was six when they dug the huge hole in the field beside our house. And I must say, my brother and I thought it…

The new CEO of Alberta’s provincially owned bank is steeped in Vancity culture

Key words in the operating manual include “disfigurement” and, of course, “death”

Just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should. That’s the lesson all Canadian bankers have learned this past month, courtesy of Bank of…

The Tories will no longer be able to control the agenda and pretend they have a majority

The spirit of optimism that surrounded the 1967 world’s fair has returned

Investment research

Africa’s economic powerhouse doesn’t fit the emerging markets mould

Consumer staples perform steadily when business conditions turn adverse, but they make up a small part of the Canadian market

Having US$ income to pay off Florida home expenses is vital for this couple

What can bond investors do to safeguard against rising interest rates and falling consumer prices?

A hedge fund should be considered as a risk-reduction tool within a broader-based investment portfolio

Focus on Products

With the recent in-troduction of a new line of guaranteed invest-ment funds, IA Claring-ton Investments Inc. of Toronto is combining the investment expertise of its…

Deal may preclude or restrict public ownership of a major Canadian firm

A tight control on costs and a $150-million limit on each fund’s assets are aimed at getting the most for clients, says president

But only renters who are highly disciplined, savvy investors can match the wealth that homeowners can accumulate

CSA and others diligently develop proposals aimed at harmonization

CIM’s James Morton points to emerging markets’ hard-working, young populations as drivers of growth

Managers of C.I. Harbour Fund and AGF Canadian Real Value Fund both scour the markets for solid yet undervalued companies

Goodman launches Dynamic global fund/Toronto-based investment firm Goodman & Co. Investment Counsel Ltd. has launched Dynamic Global Value Balanced Fund, which will invest in bonds…

With clients looking to take their portfolios global, the big issue for advisors is how much they should send overseas

The U.S. economy is losing some of its vigour, but managers expect further gains from many big-name companies this year

Dealers’ Report Card

Advisors, executives differ about the usefulness of giving clients accessibility

Scores in the category tumbled on communication, quality and staffing concerns

Firms’ pitches to incoming advisors, the experience level being sought and the type of training offered to new advisors all vary greatly

But firms have differing ways of meeting the growing challenge of helping retiring advisors hand off their businesses

Interestingly, the top firms shun the dual platform in favour of mutual funds and insurance sales

Advisors are satisfied with the job their compliance departments are doing, but are frustrated with their overbearing nature

The success of equity programs, which are growing in popularity in the industry, leads to higher scores

Advisors complain about not knowing their new management’s expectations, as well as the previous regime’s failure to deliver

Firm’s ability to deliver on promises also high on the list of priorities

As mutual fund sales and performance improve, the average financial planner’s book is shrinking

More firms are offering advisors a choice

Building Your Business

Former NHLer Stew Gavin wants to make sure his clients are set for life

Ensure that your clients who own small businesses are ready to make a safe transition to retirement

Spend some time relaxing and reflecting this summer with these classics and books destined to be classics

Stew Gavin’s advisory business, with a client list made up mostly of NHL players, is certainly different than most. How many advisors can say their…

When an advisor mentions “succession,” what some clients hear is “death,” cautions Grant Robinson, a director at the SuccessCare Program in Guelph, Ont., which offers…

Study shows people who cut back the amount of salt in their diet reduce their risk of heart disease

And even if you don’t plan to buy or sell, this book holds valuable information for your business

Help your boomer clients meet their new responsibilities — looking after mom and dad

Insurance advisor not permitted to claim trip with girlfriend, apartment expenses or life insurance premiums as tax deductions

The future of financial advising is in knowing all about the niche you serve

Univeris expands its wealth management program to include an insurance component

Inbox Marketer Suite lets you segment your e-mail list and design a targeted marketing campaign

Widowed advisor was “at work,” but not working. Now she’s ready to make her vision come true This case study is based on the situation…

Take an unassuming approach, like TV detective Colombo. Ask questions, listen, take notes

Hungry to replace planners who are retiring and to attract young clients, the industry is scooping up financial planning grads

Provide options to change type size, offer audio clips and provide descriptive audio text for any images

Members of your team may be caring for elderly parents. Let them know that you recognize what they’re coping with. You may also consider making…

News

Could lower execution cost and increased liquidity be benefits of Alpha?

GGOF was known for its income products, but tax changes showed the firm’s vulnerability

Concerns about inflation are overblown, according to economists at the big Canadian banks.Granted, inflation has been edging upward, but a slowing U.S. economy will probably…

Does equalization restore fiscal balance between Ottawa and provinces?

Clients’ registered investments won’t be on the hook should legal issues arise

Yet brokerages don’t necessarily want their advisors to sell options and futures

Dealer committees should review new PPN products for suitability; advisors should perform due diligence for clients

Nationalist overtones emerge

Total number of people selling IG products reaches 3,985 as of March 31; the company plans to open six new offices this year

Firm will charge advisors asset-based fees; advisors can operate under Beacon Wealth Management banner or their own brand

Canadian companies say that even with the proposed changes, the tax measure will effectively eliminate a valued tax strategy

The SEC and the OSC have taken recent measures to combat this growing illegal activity

The bank will detail a trading loss that may reach $680 mil. but how did this catch everyone off guard?

A domestic carbon market can efficiently reduce pollution, but getting the right system up and running is crucial

Canam Credit Co., headed by 22-year-old James White, aims to help the “underbanked” markets in Alberta and beyond