Home Newspaper January 2009

January 2009

Investment research

Although Canadian financials have weathered the storm better than their U.S. counterparts, options premiums are at record highs

The market’s speedy and comprehensive downturn has made assessing the investment scene a more difficult task

Although corporate bonds are yielding as much as equities in some instances, investors prefer safety of government-issued debt

Canada’s Big Three telecommunications companies are counting on wireless services to drive revenue in the near future

Comment & Insight

The premier should have anticipated the current mess in the energy sector

If hockey is a religion, who’s playing centre?

One of the most seductive — and risky — investment propositions is the “seed stock” deal. And Vancouver sometimes seems to be Canada’s seed stock…

Advocates say the decision of Royal Bank to leave OBSI does not serve the public interest

Editor's letter

Other countries sometimes move more quickly against Canadian perpetrators

The Habs are celebrating their 100th, but fans are still waiting for the return of the old mojo

Focus on Products

AIC completes mergers

Cash position of Dynamic Focus+ Small Business Fund trumps that of Bissett Small-Cap Fund

Managers of Canadian equity funds face a murky market, but some can see values beginning to appear

Segregated and mutual funds that invest in real property have produced positive returns over the past 12 months

To find those that will survive, look at payout ratios, tax pools, commodity prices

Each state has its own rules, and these can vary significantly

Study finds that equity investors overpay for risky stocks

Building Your Business

Here are 10 tips to help you stay positive as you deal with clients and volatile markets over the coming months

Study shows clients don’t understand mortgage insurance policies; term life provides numerous advantages

These mini-laptops are small and capable of running office applications, so they are ideal for advisors on the go

When it comes to estate planning and wealth transfer, financial advisors have long been wary of professional trustees. That’s understandable, given that the management of…

Exercise, time spent with family, volunteer work can make you less susceptible to stress, more optimistic

Historian Niall Ferguson offers a sweeping history of money as a driving force of change

Calgary-based advisor prides himself in building deep client relationships

Family mediation skills can play a key role in the peaceful resolution of financial issues

Clients should be organized into tiers, with clear service standards for each category

A middle-aged, middle-income couple should reduce their real estate and build up RRSPs, insurance and pensions

Integrating a trust company into your network can add value for clients

Brian Hein, president of Hein Financial Group Inc. in Calgary, believes client relationships are the key to success. “If you want to get rich, know…

News

Société General agrees to settle class action suit by paying $611 million

Use of solar energy has ramped up in the past decade, but it still has a long way to go

A report from the CCIR says the forms cause confusion and misunderstanding on the part of consumers

Clients’ desire for unbiased financial planning advice during tough times is a testament to the firm’s business model

Economists expect Canada to outperform the U.S.

Retail investors want greater accountability from both dealers and regulators

A severe, protracted period of deleveraging could impede a return to normal

Report from expert commission calls for creation of a pension champion and a new industry regulator, among other things

Quarterly profit survey

The TMX’s new CEO says he remains committed to a global future for the group

While credit continues to flow to Canadian consumers and business owners who have good credit ratings, banks and other financial services firms across the country…

Advisors may need to help clients deal with servicing their debts in the coming year

The British regulator’s significant proposals are aimed at putting an end to clients’ lack of confidence in the industry’s integrity