Advisors offer clients many value-added services, in addition to investment planning, insurance and risk management planning and general financial and Estate Planning advice.

This often leads to a discussion by clients of what is hot in the market and what is actively being discussed in the media and whether the client should participate in the "action” or not.

There are many times when these hot investment themes turn into...

For many small business owners, what began as a bright idea or an innate desire to exercise their entrepreneurial spirit turned into a new enterprise with the promise to provide for them and their families. Even the most successful small businesses are significantly reliant upon the continued health, vision and skills of the business owner or a key person.

Without the owner or key person, the likelihood of the business continuing is greatly diminished. It can mean instant death for the business with devastating consequences for the owner, employees and their families.

Instead of putting money in savings or investments, many business owners...

If you are between the ages of 35 and 65, it is quite likely that someone you know has recently been diagnosed with a terminal illness. Hopefully, there is time for them to review and organize their estate to ensure their loved ones are properly taken care of.

From a tax planning perspective, it is wise to ensure that heirs receive the maximum value of the estate. It is tragic when someone works hard all their life only to have much of their assets taxed heavily by the government because of an insufficient estate plan.

The Canada Revenue Agency will happily accept whatever income and assets are not protected by a proper estate plan.

This may also serve as a wake-up call to: