The investment world is rapidly changing – for the better in my opinion. One way this is changing is that people are recognizing how much they are now paying in fees. Mutual Funds and Segregated Funds are extremely expensive and most managed funds rarely beat the market – especially when you take in consideration the fees associated to those funds. Another thing that has gained popularity are ETF’s (Exchange Traded Funds). These funds work like an individual stock, but they hold many individual stocks in one bucket at a much lower fee. These can be used to replicate the market index and provide great diversification while being much more liquid than mutual funds.
I have partnered with a fantastic company that can provide you with a professionally managed, low-fee ETF portfolio, Justwealth. In my opinion, they are one of the most sophisticated and comprehensive online platforms in the market. They have a fantastic team who have managed tens of billions of dollars for large financial institutions on behalf of Canadian investors. There advisory board is also quite impressive, including the President and CEO of Kellogg Canada Inc and the CEO and Founder of Flight Network.
What makes them a bit unique in the market compared to other online platforms is that they have actual portfolio managers that you can talk to. Having this access can be very comforting as you will be able to understand exactly how your money is being invested and obtain insight on what’s happening in the market. In addition, all their accounts are being monitored daily. Another unique feature is that they have over 60 different portfolios to work with – which means that they are more suitable for a larger amount of investor types compared to companies that only offer five or ten portfolios.
Finally, it’s worth mentioning that Justwealth has a top priority of keeping your information very secure. They have partnered with many firms to ensure that all elements of their website are secure, and any information passed between you and Justwealth’s website is being encrypted at the highest level. All your assets are held with their custodian BBS Securities, an IIROC regulated company. In addition, your assets are protected by the CIPF for up to $1,000,000 and BBS Securities is ensured for up to $10, 000,000. Lastly, as a Portfolio Manager, Justwealth has a fiduciary legal standard that it must live up to – a title much more meaningful than the generic “financial advisor” at most banks.
Here is where you can sign-up:
https://www.justwealth.com/secureplan-advisor-page/
Step 1: You will need to complete the investment questionnaire. This will help determine what type of investment risk is best for you. Justwealth has over 60 portfolios to meet you needs and this questionnaire will help direct you to the best one for your situation.
Step 2: Enter your Personal Information
Step 3: E-Sign and upload your PhotoID
Once the above has been complete, your Personal Portfolio Manager will review your account information and contact you within two business days. You will receive an email from the Justwealth Support Team which will outline the requirements to complete the regulatory identity verification process. Depending on the nature of your account application(s), you may be required to complete some additional forms either by electronic means or hard copy format.
For full disclosure, Justwealth will charge of fee of 0.4% to manage your account. They will be the ones that provide you with all advice surrounding your risk tolerance and how your money is to be invested. There will be an additional fee of 0.5%, which is my fee to you. This is what allows me to provide you with financial advice and help you achieve your financial goals. My commitment will be to update your financial plan on an annual basis and be there for you throughout the year to help you make smart financial decisions.
Not ready to sign up? How about we review your portfolio at no charge? This can help you understand how you may be overpaying in fees and ensure that you are properly diversified.
By Jeff Romansky
CHS, CPCA Principal, SecurePlan Insurance Solutions
Jeff started his insurance career in 2006 when he joined RBC Insurance. During this time, he helped hundreds of insurance advisors grow their business by providing them with comprehensive advice, consultation and training. His commitment to building strong relationships, paired with his positive attitude and specialized expertise led him to win multiple awards including being #1 in his position throughout Canada on numerous occasions.
After nine successful years at RBC Insurance, he decided to pursue his dream and start his firm to help professionals, executives and owner-managed businesses with their individual insurance and employee benefits. Jeff proudly serves clients throughout Southwestern Ontario and the GTA.
Jeff Romansky is a broker, so you can be confident that he is working for you and not the insurance company. He consultative approach is welcomed by his clients as they never feel pressured and are always correctly informed. When necessary, Jeff will work with or bring in trusted partners to meet your overall financial goals. He is committed to building long-term relationships with all his clients and viewed as a trusted partner to many.
Jeff’ resides in Grimsby with his wife and daughter. When Jeff isn’t hard at work, you can find him with friends on the golf course, curling rink or camping with his family.