Home Newspaper December 2008

December 2008

Investment research

The introduction of loans and credit cards have already been a boon to the ever-risky sector

Although the steep correction of commodities prices has depressed small-cap mining stocks, they soon could be on the way back up

Studies have shown that at least 85% of overall portfolio returns can be pegged to the asset-mix decision

Although most are expected to emerge from the credit crisis bigger and better, they are still suffering big losses

As deflation enters the picture, it presents new challenges and opportunities for bond investors

An analysis of the sector reveals that these companies are the most stable in the current turbulent markets

Comment & Insight

Harper seems to have had an epiphany: less one-man rule, more Gandhi

Premier Gordon Campbell will probably struggle in the spring

Saskatchewan’s growing oil reserves may push it ahead of Alberta as Canada’s energy king

Borrowing power is the new standard for assessing business health

It’s been a long time since the cut of a business suit trumped results

Focus on Products

PH&N files amended, simplified prospectus

Spending on infrastructure is expected to take off, making it a good medium- to long-term holding

The current RRIF factors were set in 1993, and times have changed

“We’re taking our time and letting the opportunities come to us,” says the manager of one fund, which is 32% in cash

Many PPNs have converted to bonds to satisfy their guarantees of principal; investors’ return is zilch

CI Signature High Income Fund gets the nod over Mackenzie Cundill Balanced Fund in a grim market

But baby boomers as a group haven’t saved enough for retirement

News

Greg Pollock aims to boost membership in the advisors’ organization

Royal Bank of Canada will no longer use OBSI for banking complaint resolution, launching its own service instead

If the proposals are approved, it will “encourage the MFDA to reduce the role of members in governance and policy development”

Correction: The printed version of this story incorrectly stated that Fidelity plans to wind down its defined benefit pension record keeping business. Fidelity is winding…

The three were caught in an operation conducted by the Vancouver police, the RCMP’s IMET and the FBI

Consumers and businesses look to big government for help

Federal government reminds investors of the possibility of making in-kind transfers

Research and investment in biofuels has risen sharply, but many barriers remain

The Insurance Council of B.C. revoked the registration of Trillion Financial in B.C. referring to “ongoing risk”

But there’s little doubt provincial legislators have significant changes in mind

Mutual fund dealer acquires DundeeWealth’s network of mutual fund and insurance advisors in Quebec

New technologies are helping to create lower-emission electric cars with higher speeds and ranges

TD Newcrest report suggests that this alternative trading system is more significant that other ATSes

Boards, shareholders and even governments are calling for deep reforms

Plaintiffs seeking massive damages for unpaid overtime, credit card fees — and, now, bad investments

The AMF continues its investigation into securities breaches by Triglobal principals

There are matters to be resolved, the receiver says. So, no money will be paid out in 2008

Cost savings of $30 million will help firm to structure itself better to meet aggressive goals

Standardization, co-operation and more proprietary products will be keys to growth, report says

Veteran MGA owner ponders semi-retirement and a future that will be unkind to small agencies

Investors defrauded by bankrupt Mount Real now seeking compensation from others

He calls his style “common sense”

Building Your Business

Former bank employee and his wife, a nurse with a secure job, would consider moving to another city

TTI Transculture Training International Consulting in Toronto offers these tips for dealing with clients of other cultures:> Hand gestures have different meanings in different cultures.…

Understanding some of your clients’ traditions and customs can prevent inadvertent social miscues

Not all manufacturers of GMWBs deal with overwithdrawals in the same way

Colonoscopies are recommended for those over 50; you may have to go on a waiting list because demand is increasing

Robin Douglas, senior vice president with Raymond James Ltd. in Vancouver and portfolio manager for its Concierge Investing service, places great importance on client relations.“The…

A former pilot, Robin Douglas steers a steady course

Sending e-mails to unintended recipients is not that uncommon, but it can be prevented

Talking to clients about fees is no easy feat, but there are ways to make it smoother

Show clients information about their finances using cool tools; just don’t get too carried away with the bells and whistles

Henry had developed a strategy to realize his vision, developed a marketing program to attract the right people and had an effective process for converting…

Whether it’s taking time out from a family holiday to return a phone call from a client or hosting a sushi-making class for a group…

There are various red flags you should look for and report; if you don’t, you may face stiff penalties

Once you’ve landed the clients, it’s crucial to develop a plan that matches service levels to client segments

Straying into the territory of lawyers, even unintentionally, can bring serious repercussions from lawyers and regulators

Creative destruction is often the best course for an ailing financial advisory firm