FAQ
Why did you become a planner?
I have been in the financial services industry in one form or another for my entire professional life. Despite working in several different areas, I found a common theme was that people often know they should be planning for their financial future, but didn’t have the knowledge of how to get started, and when attempting to teach themselves would find it confusing and overwhelming.
My goal is to break down that knowledge barrier - rather than dealing with insurance and finance jargon, tying it back to how this helps you accomplish your goals.
Is there a minimum amount I need to invest?
Many firms have a “hard minimum” that you must be over in order to work with them. I don’t believe in punishing people who are taking steps to increase their wealth for trying to seek help early in the process.
If you are committed to your financial health and future, I am happy to help you reach your goals.
What is a fiduciary?
A fiduciary is someone who holds a legal or ethical relationship of trust with one or more parties. As they have a position of trust, they are held to a higher ethical standard, and must place the needs of their clients above their own.
In Canada, most financial advisors are considered “Registered Representatives” which means they are held to a suitability standard for their clients - they must ensure investments are suitable for them but are not held to the stricter fiduciary standard.
Portfolio managers with discretionary authority are held to a fiduciary standard. As a CFA Charterholder, the Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct also specify a Duty of Care to Clients to place their needs above my own.
How do I know my money is safe?
This is a multi-part question. In terms of market volatility, if you are invested in anything other than Guaranteed Interest accounts, no one can guarantee a specific return or even that the value of your account will not decrease.
However, in terms of ensuring your funds are held responsibly you should know neither myself, nor Cornerstone Financial Group will take custody of your money, instead utilizing a third party custodian to set up your accounts.
Who do you work with?
My main area of focus is professional women, who either lack the time, knowledge or confidence to manage their personal finances and would like someone to take this burden off their plate but be confident their best interests are being taken care of for them.
If I’m not your ‘typical’ client, does that mean we can’t work together?
Absolutely not! I am happy to work with clients of all types and you can expect the same level of care and service from me regardless of your age, gender, family situation etc. Inclusion my business and personal practices is a core value of mine.
Who is not a fit for your services?
Anyone who wishes to time the market. My investment philosophy is on building low cost efficient portfolios that utilize long term performance factors, in line with your risk profile, tolerance, and goals, to achieve competitive returns.
Why is financial planning for women important?
While women have continued to make up a larger portion of the workforce, we have, on average, continued to take on the lion’s share of “domestic work” including caring for the home, childcare, or eldercare. Between a full time career, then a “second shift” at home, personal finances can fall by the wayside.
What does fee-only mean?
It means I am paid by my clients based on assets under management. When your portfolio is set up, there are no trailer fees from any fund companies being paid to myself or Cornerstone Fiduciary Wealth Management, meaning you know any advice is being given because it is the right portfolio for you.
If I want to meet with you, is there a fee for our initial meeting?
Not at all! Particularly in the age of social distancing, most preliminary meetings are occurring via phone or Zoom, but regardless of the medium, consultation meetings never have a cost associated with them. It is a chance for us to learn about each other and determine if we are a good fit to work together.
What exactly do your services entail?
When working with a new client we look at both their current investments as well as their current financial picture and goals, as well as any special circumstances. This allows us to show clients where they are, where they going, and any potential pitfalls to reaching their goals. From there I offer ongoing investment management and financial planning services to ensure as your needs change your plan adapts with you.
What if I’m not in Calgary?
Not a problem! We are registered and licensed in multiple jurisdictions in Canada and can coordinate virtual meetings to ensure your needs are met.
Want to know how I can help you reach your goals?
Email me or schedule an initial 30 minute consultation! There is no cost or commitment