Industry News

Outlook 2005: No relief seen from weak greenback

(December 31, 2004) The rapid appreciation of the Canadian dollar was one of the biggest economic headlines of 2004 and it looks like the pricey loonie will continue to dominate in 2005, according to various economic reports. The International Monetary Fund applauded Canada for its economic performance for 2004 and estimates a growth rate of […]

By Steven Lamb |December 31, 2004

4 min read

Would-be whistleblower found dead

(December 31, 2004) A would-be whistleblower from the financial services industry has been found dead, apparently of suicide. Reports say Kent Shirley was found dead in his parents’ home on Christmas Eve. Shirley was embroiled in a constructive dismissal lawsuit against Advocis’ founding chairman Brian Mallard, with both sides alleging regulatory wrongdoing. Shirley was an […]

By Steven Lamb |December 31, 2004

1 min read

Gold, oil fundamentals still sound

(December 30, 2004) In 2004, commodities proved to be the sector to beat, as demand from developing economies drove prices higher. Gold and oil grabbed headlines throughout the year, but what lies ahead for these key sectors in 2005? “Given the fundamentals in the gold market and what we’re seeing happen in the currency markets […]

By Steven Lamb |December 30, 2004

3 min read

Advisor associations prep for busy 2005

(December 30, 2004) Canada’s three main advisor associations have set their agendas for 2005, with advocacy initiatives high on the list. At Advocis — the country’s largest advisor group with 15,000 members — regulatory reform and advisor professionalism will be the priorities, says president Steve Howard. “There are complementary elements within that,” Howard explains. “We’re […]

By Doug Watt |December 30, 2004

3 min read