A Challenge for New Clients: How to Choose a Trusted Advisor

If you’re in business for yourself, you have a unique opportunity to build wealth in an asset class that others don’t have: equity in a business enterprise that some day may be sold for millions of dollars. In addition, that business can spin off income for family members that can provide significant tax advantages, done well. Understanding how to realize on this asset requires the help of a trusted financial advisory team. Who should be on that team and how do you find them? This is a challenge your next new business clients may wrestle with. Here are some tips on how you can open discussions to help them:

We would like to remind you about our skill-testing financial trivia.  This is your chance to win a free registration to the DAC in Kelowna, where this year’s theme will be: CANADA 150: Financial Advice at the Crossroads of Change. You just need to correctly answer both questions.

At a time when governments are more closely monitoring changes in global GDP growth, the effects of protectionism, currency fluctuations, tax changes and sluggish business investment on the long-term financial well-being of Canadians, wealth advisors need to better understand new strategies for making tax efficient investment recommendations to the families they work with.

Canadians who reach age 65 are more likely than ever to live into their 90's thanks to healthier lifestyles and a decline in heart disease.  But this lengthens the retirement income planning period.  Therefore, a renewed focus on continued capital accumulation and preservation is as important as the tax-efficient withdrawal of funds.  Knowledge Bureau’s recently updated Portfolio Risk Management in Retirement course reviews the measurement and calculation of risk and return from this perspective.

Gain confidence and trust of your clients: Wisdoms from Sharon Timson, DFA - Tax Services Specialist, Manitoba

"I am grateful for the blessings of wealth, but it hasn't changed who I am. My feet are still on the ground. I'm just wearing better shoes.” - Oprah Winfrey

The RESP may become a more important savings vehicle in 2017 now that the Education and Textbook Credits are playing out their swan song on the 2016 tax return.  Remember, you can still claim tuition fees and transfer up to $5000 to supporting individuals, however, with the reduced tax benefits in 2017, a fresh look at the RESP is worthwhile.