Investment management needs to be built on structure, process and discipline. And that discipline has to be applied consistently regardless of short-term market events.

We believe that the most important decisions we can make relate to asset allocation - which asset classes, regions of the world and manager styles are appropriate for a given level of risk at that moment in time.

Asset allocation – the spread of different asset types in a portfolio – is said to be responsible for around 90 per cent of the variation in returns for your portfolio over the long term.

Over time the evidence shows that equities and similar risk investments have provided the best returns and we expect that to hold true in the future. However, we acknowledge that while this may be the case, this asset class also tends to be the most volatile with oftentimes sharp rises and falls. We understand that investors have different tolerances for volatility and for the risk that their investments may drop in value over any given period.

For that reason, we provide a suite of risk-adjusted strategies implemented through both active and passive investments. This approach is designed to maximize the potential return for a portfolio within the specific level of risk with which you feel comfortable.

What is the proper investment mix for me?

Based on our in-depth conversations, your answers to an extensive risk tolerance questionnaire and our assessment of your personal financial situation, we will create a customized investment program that 1) reflects your primary investment objectives and 2) prioritizes your financial goals, investment time horizon and risk tolerance . The recommended portfolio will address your tax position, income and capital needs and time horizons. Our primary aim is to ensure that you remain confident about achieving your goals, at all times, regardless of what is happening in the wider world.

What kind of investments do you include in a portfolio?

We create your personal portfolio with enhanced diversification with the aim of minimizing volatility. Depending on your particular situation, your portfolio may be comprised of a unique combination of the following: individual equities, international and domestic mutual funds, exchange traded funds (ETFs), government and corporate bonds, GICs, convertible debentures and more. In certain circumstances and for portfolios of limited size we may recommend a mix of funds and/or ETFs. It all depends on your specific situation and investment goals which we help you to discover and define.

Once a portfolio is established, what happens then?

Probably our most important activity is the ongoing monitoring of your portfolio. The continuous evaluation of recommended investments ensures that the fundamental strength remains in place to deliver on your long-term financial goals. Timely recommendations are made to take profits, add to positions or to switch into more attractive investments. However, there will always be a core strategic portion of your portfolio which is held with a long-term view in mind – this “Strategic Asset Allocation” is reviewed and updated annually. The remainder of your portfolio is a reflection of our nearer–term point of view. This “Tactical Asset Allocation” gives us the opportunity to factor in what is currently happening in the world, politically and economically.