Explore how GICs and fixed-income investments can provide a reliable method for growing your clients' savings. As Canada's population ages, the need for stable and secure investments has increased markedly. By the end of this presentation, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the various types of GICs, their unique features, and the documentation process. The knowledge provided will enable you to better support your clients and enhance your value as a trusted advisor.
Presented By
Sheldon Solomon
Home Trust
Sheldon completed his MBA designation from the Richard Ivey School of Business at Western University. Currently Director of Deposits at Home Trust, Sheldon is responsible for deepening critical business relationships to encourage continued deposit growth. Sheldon has over sixteen years of progressive experience in the financial industry, with expertise ranging from client experience and portfolio management to regulatory and compliance oversight. Additionally, he has held several leadership roles at leading financial institutions, including Citi Financial and Scotiabank, where he focused on developing the bank’s sales and operations strategy while continuing to aid clients in navigating the Canadian financial market.
Explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the financial services industry with Dave Faulkner. Starting with an overview of the current AI ecosystem, Dave will discuss the tools available to financial professionals and their applications. You'll learn real-world use cases for AI in your practice, while understanding its limitations. The session will also address important compliance considerations for using AI securely and ethically. Finally, Dave will examine the future of AI, highlighting how advisor roles may evolve as tasks and processes become increasingly disrupted by technology.
Presented By
Dave Faulkner
EVAD.AI
Dave has been a part of the financial industry since 1979 and is the founder of RazorPlan financial planning software.
In early 2023, he developed an interest in how AI could enhance financial advice. His research revealed that, by understanding a client’s financial attitudes and behaviors, it is possible to provide general financial advice at scale. With this insight, he is now focused on creating AI solutions to help financial advisors save time and enhance the value of their advice.
Dave is a advocate for professional standards, the ethical use of AI, and the value that financial professionals bring to their clients.
The Path to Business Transformation - One Advisor’s Story
In this engaging ‘fireside chat style’ session, financial advisors will hear the compelling story of Dan, a fellow advisor who is navigating the challenges that come with change, growth and transformation. Dan will share his struggles, the pivotal moment when he recognized the need for external support, and how he embarked on a transformative journey with expert guidance. Together, Dan and his consultant, Kelly Gustafson, will explore the systematic approach that can help advisors identify their current state, clarify their vision for the future, and understand the steps necessary to achieve their goals. Attendees will gain valuable insights into common pitfalls in the advisory industry and learn actionable strategies to navigate their own transformation journeys. This session aims to inspire advisors to take proactive steps toward change, emphasizing that success is not just about overcoming obstacles but also about embracing new possibilities for growth and excellence in their practices.
Presented By
Kelly Gustafson
For 20+ years, Kelly Gustafson has driven innovation in the Canadian financial services industry. Advisors, Distributors, MGAs, and Carriers alike seek her counsel in merging modern digital tools with the tried, tested and true practices of industry titans. Known for her passion and relentless work ethic, Kelly has consulted and served thousands of advisors across the country. She has the insights, data, and toolbox to help transform the client service experience. With 29 years in the industry across western Canada, Dan Steinkey knows what it means to struggle, change, grow and thrive in today’s advisory community.
Compliance and technology are often addressed as separate topics; however, they can work hand-in-hand to streamline transactions while ensuring adherence to regulations.
This session will focus on how to effectively leverage advances in technology to enhance compliance processes. Attendees will gain insights into simplifying workflows and creating a more efficient, client-friendly experience—making compliance not just achievable but seamless.
Presented By
Kris Kubin
Financial Horizons
Kris is the Sales Director for Financial Horizons in Manitoba. He has been involved in insurance for over 30 years, working as an Advisor, as a Carrier Wholesaler, and in the MGA space.
Kris also helped develop a CRM for Group & Individual Advisors called AdvisorConX (Advisor-Con-X)
One of his favourite mantra is, “You can have everything in life you want if you just help other people get what they want!”
This session will update advisors on current market conditions and explore AGF's fund lineup in partnership with Beneva. This session will also delve into the investment philosophies and disciplines that guide the portfolio teams, providing an in-depth analysis of individual funds and their strategic approaches.
Presented By
Braydon Pettifer
Beneva (AGF)
Braydon Pettifer is a Regional Vice-President with AGF Investments, covering Manitoba, Saskatchewan, as well as Northwestern Ontario. Braydon has served clients across Canada for over 10 years with AGF, providing unique investment solutions and capital markets insights to support his clients. He has a Bachelor’s degree from McMaster University where he was a member of the Men’s Varsity Rugby team and is a Chartered Investment Manager (CIM) designation holder. Braydon lives in Winnipeg and when he is not working, he can be found fishing in Lake of the Woods, golfing, and skiing in the Canadian Rocky Mountains with his fiancee, Mary.
Assuris is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to protecting Canadian policyholders if their life or health insurance company encounters financial difficulties. This session will provide you with a comprehensive overview of Assuris' protective measures, along with real-life scenarios to illustrate how these protections are applied in practice. You’ll leave with valuable tools and knowledge to confidently reassure clients that their benefits remain secure, even in unexpected situations.
Presented By
Adrien Bonhomme
Assuris
Adrien Bonhomme is the Director of External Relations at Assuris, a non-profit, industry-funded organization that protects Canadian policyholders if their life and health insurance company fails. He leads Assuris' Communication and External Relations team, which is responsible for developing, executing, and evaluating communication plans that support and engage financial advisors and member companies.
Adrien brings extensive experience in marketing and communications. He began his career in advertising agencies before transitioning to the client side, where he worked at Manulife for 8 years prior to joining Assuris.
IFB is a self-accrediting provider in the provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. For accreditation for RIBO licensed brokers in Ontario, IFB submits all material to RIBO Accreditation, and does not post RIBO credit categories or hours until formal confirmation is received. For accreditation for CFP designates and MFDA registrants, IFB submits all material to FP Canada accreditation, and does not post FP Canada or MFDA credit categories or hours until formal confirmation is received.
Representing independent financial professionals across Canada for over 35 years.
Your IFB Membership gives you a seat at the table when policy decisions impacting your business are discussed.
