SELECTING AN ADVISOR IS AN IMPORTANT DECISION

Here are some of the questions our clients have asked over the years, and if you have more, we're ready to answer them.

 

Am I a typical Forge client?

We're not the solution for every individual, but we're an excellent team for clients interested in long-term solutions. We pride ourselves on creating long-standing and valued relationships with our clients. Forge's average client relationship extends beyond 10 years, so if you're looking long-term we are likely a good fit.

 

How do you decide what types of products and services will meet my financial goals?

When it comes to selecting products and services, there is no ‘one size fits all' solution. Each client is assessed on their own unique circumstances; services are selected to balance short and long-term goals and current market risk and opportunities. We don't implement products; we implement client-focused solutions.

 

Does Forge create financial plans?

Yes we do. Depending on their goals, we work with our clients to define objectives, build their plan and integrate it into the overall management of their portfolio. Financial plans can take various forms, usually dictated by a client's stage of life.

 

I haven't completed my estate planning; can you help with that?

Yes, we take a holistic approach to your overall financial situation and work to ensure that you are aware of the options available to you. We have extensive knowledge and experience in related fields that impact your financial affairs, including tax and estate planning. At your request (or our recommendation), we'll introduce you to a trusted partner who can guide you in such matters.

 

Do I need to be a knowledgeable investor who can manage my own portfolio?

Our clients are unique in terms of what they need from Forge. Some want to be actively involved in managing their accounts, while others will give Forge full discretion on the management of their portfolio. We're like a concierge – your knowledge and needs dictate the products and services we deploy on your behalf.

 

How does your fee structure work; do the fees bear the same risk as my capital and returns?

We view a client's portfolio as their business and we are committed to keeping their business profitable. Fees are determined by applying a specified fee rate to the total market value of the client's assets under our management. We would be happy to explain this in more detail at our initial meeting.

 

What type of checks and balances are in place to protect my assets?

CIBC Wood Gundy is a division of CIBC World Markets Inc., a securities dealer member of the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO). CIBC World Markets is also a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), which was created by the investment industry to provide limited protection for client assets in case of a member firm's insolvency. Clients do not pay fees for the CIPF protection, and CIPF may cover up to $1,000,000. Details on this protection can be found at www.cipf.ca.

 

How do you keep me abreast of the performance of my portfolio?

During your regularly scheduled meetings with us, we provide you with consistent reporting in regards to your portfolio performance, risk/return analysis and asset allocation. Portfolio performance is evaluated, or benchmarked, against an expected return (where available), and a proprietary market index. Annually, all CIBC Wood Gundy clients can expect to receive a year-end account report.

 

Are all your investing decisions approved by CIBC?

For us, one of the biggest advantages of working within the CIBC family is that we have the ability to plan and execute investment decisions based on what we believe is in the best interest of our clients. There is no influence on the part of CIBC Wood Gundy centrally, or by local CIBC Wood Gundy management, on the investments we recommend.