MGN Services
Financial services are crucial to the functioning of an economy. Without them, individuals with money to save might have trouble finding those who need to borrow, and vice versa. And without financial services, people would be so intent on saving to cover risk that they might not buy very many goods and services. Instead of stashing money under their mattresses, consumers can give their savings to intermediaries who might invest them in the next great technology or allow someone to buy a house. The mechanisms that intermediate these flows can be complicated, and most countries rely on regulation to protect borrowers and lenders and help preserve the trust that underpins all financial services.
Our Typical Client
We have no minimums. Since we do not sell investments, our advice is objective. Our fee-only approach ensures the highest level of independent service and advice. Our clients have a net worth ranging from zero to several million dollars. Our clients are looking for unbiased, objective and comprehensive financial planning advice. And they don’t want investment or insurance products to be co-mingled with that advice. Clients often seek a more integrated and comprehensive approach to planning and a higher level of portfolio construction. We offer sophisticated portfolio design paired with objective and independent investment selection. A more comprehensive financial plan may involve multiple meetings, but we won’t know until we meet first. Please forward any investment statements or spreadsheets before the meeting for the best advice.
Google Meet Virtual Meeting
During this one-hour virtual session, we will focus on where you are now with your money and where you want to be. You will get the chance to unpack where you are financially, along with your money-related worries and emotions. You will get the answers to your most pressing financial questions and concerns. We ensure all the moving pieces are aligned and working together. We help you discover and develop the best ways to maximize your wealth today and into the future in 3 simple steps:
- Identify financial goals
- Reveal investment shortfalls
- Provide written recommendations
Fee-Only Financial Planning
Financial planning is a process, not a product. It involves short-term and long-term financial goals and includes a strategy to achieve them. An investment portfolio serves as a tool designed to realize your financial objectives. A financial plan typically includes details about income, property, expenses, savings, debts, investments, insurance and a roadmap for achieving specific financial objectives. We’ll assess your current financial situation, and determine future objectives based on your unique circumstances.
- Can you buy a more expensive home and stay on track financially?
- How much do you need to save for retirement?
- How much do I need to retire by a certain age?
- How much can I afford to spend in retirement?
- Are my current investment fees reasonable?
- Will I run out of money during retirement?
- Should I pay down debt or invest?
- Should I buy a rental property?
Unbiased Investment Advisor
Investment planning encompass much more than a mere selection of exchange traded funds (ETFs) or assembling equities and fixed income. Investment planning involves crafting a suitable asset allocation strategy that aligns with your risk tolerance and objectives, along with identifying the most suitable investment accounts. My services encompass guidance on ETFs for stocks, bonds, and interest-bearing accounts. Investors are often their own worst enemy when trying to out smart the market and end up sabotaging their financial goals.
- What kind of investments can I have in a corporation?
- How much should I contribute to different accounts?
- What types of accounts should I open for my kids?
- Has my investment performance beat the markets?
- What types of investment accounts should I have?
- Do I need more investment diversification?
- Is my asset allocation appropriate?
- What is my risk tolerance?
- What should I invest in?
Personalized Retirement Planning
Incorporating retirement planning into your overall financial strategy is of utmost importance. Whether it entails calculating your projected yearly retirement income or estimating the required savings to attain your desired retirement earnings, I am here to guide you toward your retirement aspirations. I will fine-tune your investment approach and harness government benefits to ensure your financial security throughout your retirement years. After understanding your time horizon, we’ll devise smart withdrawal strategies to maintain your lifestyle and minimize tax implications.
- When should I convert my RRSP to a RRIF?
- Should my investment accounts be joint?
- When should I start RRSP withdrawals?
- Should I save using an RRSP or TFSA?
- When should I start my CPP or OAS?
- How do I split income in retirement?
Tax Planning Strategies
Tax planning encompasses not only the timely submission of income tax returns. It includes strategies such as investing in appropriate accounts, and strategically withdrawing funds to minimize tax liabilities. I am dedicated to aiding you in comprehending and minimizing the tax ramifications associated with your investment choices, earnings, and other financial endeavours. My goal is to ensure compliance with Canadian tax regulations while maximizing available credits and deductions.
- How do I fund my retirement in the most tax efficient manner?
- Should I save in my name or my spouse’s name?
- How do I pay less tax on my investments?
- How do I pay less tax over my lifetime?
- Should I set up a holding company?
- Should I set up a corporation?
- How do I pay less tax today?
Wealth Management Advisor
Wealth management combines several financial services to address the needs of affluent clients. Wealth management brings together tax planning, wealth protection, estate planning, succession planning, and family governance. Using a consultative process, the advisor learns information about the client’s wants and their specific situation. I’ll tailor a personalized strategy that utilizes a range of financial products and services.
- Should I withdraw more than the minimum from my RRIF?
- Which account should I withdraw from first in retirement?
- How do I make a plan for the family business?
- How do I maximize my charitable giving?
- How do I create an income in retirement?
- Should I own assets jointly?
Legacy & Estate Planning
An estate plan develops short and long-term financial strategies for minimizing estate taxes and facilitates a smooth transition of wealth. It helps ensure your wishes are followed after your death, including what happens to your money, property and personal items and who will manage your estate.
- Should I transfer assets to my children now or in the future?
- What is a power of attorney for personal care?
- How do I make a plan for the family cottage?
- What assets will pass through my will?
- What is a power attorney for property?
- What beneficiaries should I name?
- How do I minimize probate fees?
- Should I have a will?
Education Savings Consulting
Registered Education Savings Plans (RESPs) offer an effective way to maximize the money available to your children or grandchildren when they enroll in a full-time post-secondary program. Withdrawals are taxed in the hands of the student, typically at a lower rate. And anyone, parents, grandparents, other family members and friends, can open an RESP for a child.
- How much will a college education cost when my child turns 18?
- When should I start making my investments safer?
- How much should I contribute each year?
- What if my child gets a scholarship?
- What investments should I own?
Nic Tustin, BA Econ
I used my experience from BMO, Canada Life, Edward Jones, Sunlife and TD to create apps to help investors pay fewer fees and income tax. I bring my experience from working at a variety of financial institutions to provide you with unbiased recommendations. I primarily focus on tactical asset allocation by actively balancing portfolios to reduce market risk. I create diversified portfolios based on algorithms. Less guesswork and more structure when it comes to investing will help you reach your targeted retirement goals.
The Value of an Advisor
Taking control of your financial future can feel overwhelming. And, if you’re like many people, it’s hard to even know where to start. When you consider that financial education isn’t often taught in schools, it’s no wonder so many of us enter adulthood knowing very little about the fundamentals of healthy money management. Your advisor helps you to make good decisions when it comes to your personal finances and your financial future.