Planning and Advice

Duty of care

In the wake of numerous instances of financial fraud in North America, there has been increased focus on the duties and obligations owed by investment professionals to their clients. In the U.S. and elsewhere, regulators are proposing changes that would impose a fiduciary standard on those entrusted with managing investor funds.

By David Di Paolo, Kara Beitel |April 1, 2011

4 min read

Planning and Advice

Homemade wills often require interpretation

There are many reasons a will may need to be interpreted. An interpretation application is a request for the opinion, advice and direction of the court on specific questions. The questions will relate to matters of concern to the executors and trustees (and/or certain beneficiaries) who are unable to discern from the terms of the will how to implement it, or who is to benefit and how. An executor who administers the estate in accordance with guidance received from the court will be protected from subsequent complaint by a beneficiary.

By Daniel J. Dochylo |April 1, 2011

6 min read

Planning and Advice

Increasing estate value for the affluent

Frequently incorporated in estate plans for affluent clients, an estate bond is a taxefficient strategy that creates a large and immediate estate value.

By André L’Espérance |April 1, 2011

3 min read

Industry

Top six frauds and scams

The Ombudsman for Banking Services and Investments (OBSI) has issued a list of the frauds and scams that top its Most Frequent Complaints list. Here’s a list you can share with clients—and guard against yourself. 1) Debit and credit card fraud: Keep your cards in a safe place, use different PINs for each card, don’t […]

By Staff |March 31, 2011

2 min read

Professionalization of the investment advisor role

Since the global market crisis of 2007-2008 there have been renewed calls in many jurisdictions for a stronger regulatory presence in securities markets. Even before the crisis though there was a rising expectation that members of the investment community conduct themselves in keeping with the standards of professional excellence that would enhance the ‘duty of care’ being provided to the client.

3 min read

Best Practices: Dealing with a troubled team

The senior advisor in our practice is amazing with people but cannot organize himself or his time and does too much of the talking in the client appointments. This often results in 2 - 3 hour appointments which cuts us down to only about 5 - 6 appointments a week.

5 min read

Budget 2011: A client letter

Show clients you’re proactive by sending them this customizable letter about the Federal Budget. Dear [Client/Prospect name], As you know, Finance Minister Jim Flaherty delivered his federal budget on March 22 in Ottawa. This budget has several items that could affect your financial plan or present additional opportunities. In case you haven’t had a chance […]

2 min read

When compliance comes calling

“Hi, I’m Andrew Symonds from Head Office; I’m calling to schedule your audit. What’s good for you the week after next?” A call like this from compliance, about an impending branch review examination, is a surefire trigger for the fright and flight response. But a branch review needn’t be a cat and mouse game. Nor […]

5 min read

Planning and Advice

Duty of care

Homemade wills often require interpretation

Increasing estate value for the affluent

Top six frauds and scams

Making your Blackberry better

Professionalization of the investment advisor role

Social media: The new economy of sharing

Best Practices: Dealing with a troubled team

Budget 2011: A client letter

When compliance comes calling