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Monday morning briefing – June 10, 2019

Banks can make privacy a competitive advantage. High-net-worth investors are looking for private equity. The difficulties facing fintech firms as they cross borders. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

The U.S. unemployment rate was steady at 3.6% in May: Jobs report: U.S. economy adds disappointing 75,000 jobs in May, unemployment rate holds at 3.6%

Canadian unemployment rate fell to its lowest level since 1976: Canada added 27,700 jobs in May; unemployment rate hit record low

ECB holds rate steady, pushes out possible rate increase: Euro rises as ECB pushes back rate hike deadline; raises inflation forecast

Would the Fed be willing to cut rates?: Powell hints Fed will cut rates if needed over trade wars

What the next recession could look like: Gauging the next recession’s severity

The benefits of farmland in a pension portfolio: A look at the role of farmland in pension portfolios

Sustainalytics launches ESG screening product: Sustainalytics launches new ESG screening tool and engagement service

News and notes (U.S.)

Who can replace a legend?: The race to replace Larry Fink

What to look for in an outsourced trading partner: Key considerations when choosing an outsourced trading partner

Regrets about going public: Apollo founder ‘absolutely’ regrets taking the firm public

A look at the next CIOs: II’s most wanted allocators: First team

The largest PE firms have been able to diversify across asset types: A new era of scale in the private capital markets

Fidelity reduces fees on target-date funds: Fidelity cuts target-date mutual fund fees as price war spreads

The SEC passed the Regulation Best Interest proposal: SEC passes regulation best interest by 3-1 vote

Household wealth in the U.S. up, growth rate of debt slowed: U.S. first-quarter household wealth hits record as stocks surge

News and notes (Canada)

Fidelity launches ESG funds: Fidelity launches 3 funds aimed at positive change

May was the best month in 2019 for ETF inflows: Canadian ETF inflows in May are the year’s strongest so far

The Canadian ETF industry still has a lot of room to grow: Why Canada’s ETF industry hasn’t peaked yet

An in-depth look at the Canadian mutual fund industry: Mutual Fund Guide 2019

Looking at the compliance challenges facing investments: OSC to launch new advisory committee

Protection of vulnerable investors a top priority of IIROC: IIROC sets strategy through 2022

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Regulators and fintech firms need to coordinate efforts to create a better environment for innovation: BankThink Fintechs, regulators need more common ground

Making money in mobile banking using big data: Data can move mobile banking from ‘convenient’ to ‘monetized’

The difficulties facing fintech firms as they cross borders: 3 challenges of scaling a fintech company across borders

Creighton University introduces a degree in fintech: Creighton University among the first to create a fintech degree

The opportunity and risks of deploying AI: The potentials and pitfalls of applying AI in the financial industry

The U.K. has seen a rise in mobile banking, less use of cash: Rise in mobile banking and contactless as consumers take pick ‘n’ mix approach to payments

Banks can make privacy a competitive advantage: Why now is the ideal time for banking brands to assert their privacy role

Banks’ adoption of open banking will take time and trust: Mastercard’s Wadsworth: Banks need time to fit into open banking future

Why tech talent should consider banking: The war for (banking tech) talent

High-net-worth topics

How to advise people who come into sudden wealth: Advising ‘Jeopardy!’ champ Holzhauer on his $2.5 million payday

The high-net-worth rank trust as the number one requirement in an advisor: Satisfaction and loyalty just the start for high-net-worth clients

The high-net-worth are looking for private equity: Russ Prince: Wealthy investors want more private equity

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Asset managers are looking at creating ESG products (Cerulli): More than half of asset managers considering ESG products, Cerulli says

Some doctors are worried about unexpected expenses (MD Management): Is your doctor client worried about finances?

Combining human advice with robo may become the best approach (IFIC): Hybrid distribution channels set to rise: IFIC

For financial marketing and investment commentary help, contact us at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com.

Monday morning briefing – June 3, 2019

A look at fintech’s progress in the small business market, the private equity market during the first quarter and why almost 50% of current students aren’t prepared to manage money. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

The BoC holds its benchmark overnight interest rate steady: BoC holds rate, says numbers suggest slowdown was temporary

Global trade tensions are a major concern for the BoC: Trade war escalation ‘major preoccupation’ for Bank of Canada: top official

U.S. GDP revised to 3.1% in the first quarter: U.S. economic growth in the first quarter revised down slightly to 3.1 percent

The Canadian economy grew 0.4% (annualized) in the first quarter: First-quarter stall masks underlying strength in Canada’s economy

Low-volatility ETFs gain traction as markets become more volatile: Billions flow into low-vol and “buffer” ETFs as markets swing

A look at the difference between risk and volatility: The difference between investment risk and volatility

Mohamed El-Erian to become president of Queens’ College: Allianz’s El-Erian to head college at Cambridge University

News and notes (U.S.)

Hedge fund managers recorded a positive month in April: Hedge funds recorded fourth positive month of the year in April

Hedge funds and corporate social responsibility in action: How hedge funds use corporate social responsibility considerations

New Jersey pension to cut its exposure to hedge funds: N.J. Pension to cut hedge fund exposure 50% amid high fees

Bridgewater and Lyxor to partner on a UCITS fund: Ray Dalio’s Bridgewater is working with Lyxor on an alternative fund

A look at the PE market during the first quarter: 12 charts on US PE trends in 1Q

Dynasty Financial Partners launches M&A platform: Dynasty launches new M&A platform Dynasty Connect

Morningstar to purchase DBRS: Morningstar to buy Canadian debt-rating agency

Brookfield to invest in residential projects in Brooklyn and the Bronx: Brookfield seeks $1 billion for fund aimed at poor areas

Mutual fund sales and performance over the past two weeks: Mutual funds scorecard: May 28 edition

News and notes (Canada)

 Purpose Financial purchases CreditGenie: Purpose acquires Toronto tech firm

Sharing data to reduce regulatory burdens for IIROC firms: IIROC and FINTRAC boost information sharing

Looking to bring a digital assets market to retail investors: Firms seek OSC approval on regulated market for crypto trading

Canadians aren’t financially prepared to retire: Canadians aren’t ready to retire?

VC investment had a 48% increase in the first quarter over the same period last year: Canadian VC investment boomed in Q1, while PE fizzled: report

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Fintech has gone global: Fintech used to be a local game. Today it can be global

The impact of fintech on consumer loans: Fintech continues to disrupt consumer lending

Incorporating artificial intelligence into fintech: Everyday fintech use cases for A.I.

How to maximize the banking innovation lab: Time to ‘disrupt’ wrong thinking about banking innovation labs?

A look at fintech’s progress in the small business market: Fintech’s biggest new market is small business financing … but is it worth it?

Global regulator looking at key issues surrounding cryptoassets: IOSCO launches consultation on cryptoassets regulation

Robo-advice assets could grow to over US$1 trillion in five years: Robo AUM could reach US$1.26 trillion by 2023: report

High-net-worth topics

The wealthy may not want to pay more in taxes: Do wealthy clients want to pay more taxes?

The wealthy are moving to Florida: Florida wins big as wealthy leave northern states

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Canadian institutional investors may increase their allocation to alternative strategies (CIBC): Institutional investors adding alternatives, report says

Canadian CEOs are less optimistic than global CEOs about the Canadian economy (KPMG): Canadian CEOs’ confidence in the economy drops: report

Not enough Canadians have disability insurance (RBC): Half of Canadians have no disability insurance: survey

Almost 50% of current students aren’t prepared to manage money (AIG): Gen Z establishing bad financial habits, new research shows

For financial marketing and investment commentary help, contact us at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com.

Tuesday morning briefing – May 21, 2019

There is no stopping socially responsible investingThe benefits of making personalization a realityHow ETFs rose to prominence. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

Canada’s inflation rate rises to 2.0% in April: Inflation rises in April as carbon taxes drive up gas prices

Why a Fed rate cut could be problematic for the economy: Fed’s George warns rate cut could lead to bubbles and recession

How ETFs rose to prominence: Why ETFs succeeded for retail investors

Looking beyond fees: Fees aren’t the only cost of investing

MSCI to add more shares to its emerging markets index: MSCI boosts China, adds Saudi to emerging-market indexes

There is no stopping socially responsible investing: Socially responsible investing movement is hot and there are no signs of it cooling off

How DC plans can follow in the footsteps of DB plans: 2019 Top 40 Money Managers Report: Investment lessons for DC plans from their DB parents

News and notes (U.S.)

A look at the hedge fund industry in April: State of the industry – April, 2019

Alternative asset firms looking to enter the retail market: Hiring activity suggests alts firms are eying wealth management

Balancing foreign investment with national security: An increase in foreign investment in the US comes with trade-offs

A look at one of the largest lenders in the world, GSO Capital Partners: The radical, lucrative, and controversial company hiding in Stephen Schwarzman’s pocket

Looking at retirement in the U.S.: Is there really a retirement crisis brewing?

Another delay on the decision of a bitcoin ETF: SEC delays decision on Bitwise Bitcoin ETF again

Mutual fund sales and performance over the past two weeks: Mutual funds scorecard: May 14 edition 

News and notes (Canada)

Private equity firm, Onex, to purchase WestJet: Onex signs agreement to buy WestJet in $5B deal

BMO announces changes to its investment lineup: BMO Investments announces new fund and series launches

Nest Wealth purchases Razor Logic Systems: Nest Wealth acquires Canadian software firm

Accelerate Financial Technologies launches three ETFs with 0% management fees:Alternative offerings mark firm’s ETF debut

Certain budget measures affecting the financial services industry may not pass before the fall election: Stock option changes, other budget measures unlikely to proceed before election

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Making personalization a reality: Big payoffs for banks & credit unions from personalization

How technological advancements can turn complaints into opportunities: Five year increase in customer complaints an opportunity for banks, Financial Ombudsman reports

House Committee on Financial Services sets up fintech task force: US Congress launches fintech and AI task forces

Responding to cyber risks: Cyber exposure for mutual funds

FINRA to streamline interactions with member firms: FINRA plans digital transformation

Fintech deals grew to $111.8 billion in 2018: Global fintech investment doubled in 2018

Cybersecurity teams should be involved in managing the risks of business and digital transformation: PwC’s Digital Trust Insights survey: aligning business and cyber security drives success

A look at the Chief Data Officer: The evolution of the Chief Data Officer

Amazon moving into the blockchain space: Will Amazon find the same success with blockchain as they did with cloud?

High-net-worth topics

How much money do people need to consider themselves wealthy: You need $2.3 million to be considered truly wealthy in America

Brokerage firms must improve the products and services they offer the high-net-worth:Not good enough

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Help from a financial advisor is one of the best tools for retirement planning (Benefits Canada): Advisors top list of retirement planning tools: survey

ETF investors expected to increase their allocation to ETFs to protect against market volatility (Charles Schwab): Two thirds of ETF investors expect to raise allocations this year

Education costs impacting parents’ finances (FP Canada): University costs delay parents’ retirement: survey

For financial marketing and investment commentary help, contact us at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com.

Monday morning briefing – May 13, 2019

Banks must meet customers’ expectations of personalization. Advisor conversations about ESG investing are on the rise. How to effectively reach millennials through social media. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

The U.S. inflation rate was 2.0% in April: U.S. consumer prices rise; underlying inflation tame

The Canadian unemployment rate fell to 5.7% in April: Canada surprises with biggest one-month jobs gain since 1976

The Fed is concerned with credit markets: Reshaped credit markets are spooking the Fed

Institutional investors looking to emerging markets for higher returns: Institutional investors are all in on emerging markets

A look back at the 2010 Flash Crash: Nine years on: The true story of the 2010 Flash Crash

Global regulatory review: FactSet regulatory update: May 2019

News and notes (U.S.)

The Eurekahedge Hedge Fund Index rose 1.13% in April: Hedge funds positive again in April after robust first quarter

A potential market downturn could mean more assets allocated to hedge funds: 4 out of 5 investors to bet bigger on hedge funds

Apollo planning to convert to a C-Corp: Apollo becomes latest PE bigwig to plan corporate conversion

The transformation of KKR: Gentlemen at the gate: With trillions pouring in, KKR and its peers must build up rather than break up

PIMCO adds Richard Thaler as a senior advisor: Pimco brings on Nobel-winning economist Thaler for advisory role

How Vanguard is deferring capital gains taxes on its mutual funds: Vanguard investors get control of paying taxes

Actively managed ETFs have been gaining traction in the market: Active ETFs gaining ground

News and notes (Canada)

TD launches more ETFs: TD launches three new equity ETFs

Canadian pension plans investing in AI venture capital fund: CPPIB, PSP part of group investing in new AI fund 

AdvisorSavvy launches advisor rating platform: Advisor rating site to offer marketing platform 

Scotiabank to launch Global Wealth Management division: Scotiabank launching global wealth management business in November

Fixed income ETFs accounted for a greater share of total ETF sales in the first quarter:Canada’s fixed income ETFs fared well in first quarter

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

How banks and fintech firms can work together to create better solutions for customers:Banks and fintech: the next step

Digital transformation must come from the top of the organization: Digital is a leadership challenge and not a project 

Banks must meet customers’ expectations of personalization: Trendwatch: Independent banking brands? Or integrated service bundles?

The KYC process needs to be improved: SWIFT’s Claeys: Decades-old KYC processes need change

The impact of insurtech on the insurance industry: The fintech revolution in insurance

Helping people spend, save and invest: New digital financial advice service – OpenMoney

New financial tool to help retail investors compare and analyze stocks: QARA launches “What Is Fund” (WIF) as beta-service

Algorithmic trading market expected to grow by 11.1% annualized over the next five years:Algo trading market to surpass $18.8 billion in five years 

How to effectively reach millennials through social media: Shifts in millennial social media habits financial marketers can tap 

Fintech firm, SoFi, launches ETFs: SoFi launches gig-focused ETF 

Fidelity to offer bitcoin trading to its institutional clients: Fidelity said to offer bitcoin trading within weeks

High-net-worth topics

High-net-worth investors are optimistic about the global economy: Wealthy investors bullish on global economy, stocks, UBS finds

Examining your portfolio can have a meaningful impact on your life: Living purposefully: The surprising benefits of examining your portfolio

High-net-worth individuals will invest in cryptocurrencies: New global poll reveals high-net-worth individuals are flocking to crypto

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

CPAs less optimistic about the Canadian economy (CPA Canada): Economic optimism declines among Canadian accountants: survey

Advisor conversations about ESG investing are on the rise (Nuveen): More advisors bringing up ESG investing with clients

Financial wellness programs helping employees’ financial planning (Financial Finesse):Long-term use of financial wellness programs drives retirement success: study

21% of young baby boomers in Canada don’t have any retirement savings (Franklin Templeton): Many young baby boomers have no retirement savings

For financial marketing and investment commentary help, contact us at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com.

Monday morning briefing – May 6, 2019

Movement across borders by millionaires up 14% in 2018. Here are the fintech firms that you need to know for 2019. There is strong optimism and demand for alternative investments. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

The Fed held its target range steady at 2.25%-2.50%: Fed holds rates steady, citing lack of inflation pressure

The BoE maintained its Bank Rate at 0.75%: Bank of England ups growth view, Brexit keeps rate rise on ice

The Fed’s comments have a big impact on financial markets: Fed needs to develop a better feel for markets

Real assets should benefit from a pause in interest rate increases: How the Fed pause affects real assets

Financial advisor revenue climbed in 2018: Financial advisor revenue reaches record high despite drop in assets

A look at the risks and opportunities in the wealth management industry: Sizing up the competition in wealth management

Understanding how liquidity affects the total cost of an ETF: The importance of ETF liquidity: State Street

How ETFs and index funds can benefit the older generation: Why index funds and ETFs are good for retirees

News and notes (U.S.)

There is strong optimism and demand for alternative investments: Investors remain optimistic about alternatives despite ongoing market volatility

Investors are moving money into hedge funds they are familiar with: Investors weed out their hedge fund managers

78% of hedge fund managers experienced positive performance in the first quarter: Over three-quarters of hedge funds saw positive returns in Q1

Why U.S. VC is poised for another big year in 2019: 15 charts that show US VC could break multiple records in 2019

A look at some of the bigger risks in the fixed income market: This time is different, credit shop argues

Many manufacturers await the SEC’s decision on the ActiveShares proposal from Precidian Investments: A flood of nontransparent active ETFs could be coming – soon

Mutual fund and ETF fees fell in 2018: U.S. fund fees at record lows

Mutual fund sales and performance over the past two weeks: Mutual funds scorecard: April 30 edition

News and notes (Canada)

75% of active Canadian equity managers underperformed the benchmark in 2018: Most Canadian equity fund managers underperformed the S&P/TSX Composite Index in 2018

Canadian VC financing benefited from U.S. investors: U.S. investors powered Canadian VC financing in Q1

A look at cash holdings by sector: Currency & Sector Liquidity Analysis Report: Q1 2019

Macquarie to close equity sales, trading and research businesses: Macquarie shuts down three business lines in Canada

Defined-benefit pension plans in Canada returned 7.2% in the first quarter: Canadian DB pension returns boosted by rallying equities in Q1 2019

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

How banks and fintech firms can create a great partnership: 4 myths preventing more fintech+banking partnerships

Traditional banks are looking to fintech for growth: Established companies leveraging fintech capabilities for growth

Here are the fintech firms that you need to know for 2019: These are the top 10 hottest fintech startups and companies in the world

Adopting the cloud can help banks go digital: Banking in the cloud

Thomson Reuters and IBM partner on new regtech initiative: IBM and Thomson Reuters team on AI and data-driven compliance offering

Creating explainable AI is needed to build enterprise and consumer trust: Explainable AI: the future of AI

Global Financial Innovation Network selects firms that will take part in its service: Global sandbox accepts first eight firms

Open data can have a positive impact on society: The beginnings of open data

BMO launches group to fund tech companies: BMO launches Technology & Innovation Group

High-net-worth topics

How the wealthy can teach their kids about money at every stage of life: Here’s how the super rich teach their kids about money

Movement across borders by millionaires up 14% in 2018: Millionaires flee homelands to Canada, Australia, U.S. as tensions rise, taxes bite

MML Investors Services to offer more investment options for high-net-worth clients: MML Investors Services adds new investment options for HNW clients

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Americans are behind in their retirement savings (Franklin Templeton): Franklin Templeton: Most Americans lag in saving for retirement

Clients want more service flexibility and pricing options (EY): Wealth management clients want flexibility and transparency, finds EY

Institutional investors interested in holding cryptocurrencies in their portfolios (Fidelity): Fidelity survey finds institutional investors are eyeing crypto

For financial marketing and investment commentary help, contact us at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com.

Monday morning briefing – April 29, 2019

Fintech and the fourth industrial revolution. Could European equities benefit from a slowdown in U.S. share buybacks? How fintech can help the underserved. Actual fee disclosure missing in the Regulation Best Interest proposal. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

The U.S. economy grew 3.2%, annualized, in the first quarter: U.S. economy grows 3.2% in the first quarter, well above estimates

The BoC held its benchmark overnight rate steady at 1.75%: Bank of Canada abandons rate-hike bias amid economic slowdown

Mark Carney to leave the BoE in 2020: Carney left his mark at the Bank of England, now it’s time to find his successor

Lack of inflows into equity markets partially the result of investors’ already high allocation to equities: Why stock-market investors aren’t suffering ‘FOMO’ despite return to all-time highs

Could European equities benefit from a slowdown in U.S. share buybacks?: End to $1 trillion buyback binge may help ‘uniquely hated’ asset

A look at some risks that could lead to a market correction: Roubini: 8 risks that could trigger the next correction

ESG investing does not mean lower returns: Does your client think socially responsible investing means poorer returns?

The number of ESG mandates continues to grow: Asset managers answer the growing call for ESG investments

News and notes (U.S.)

$13.69 billion was redeemed from hedge funds in March: Investors continue to pull money from hedge funds despite performance rebound, says eVestment

Asset and wealth management M&A activity had a strong start to 2019: M&A stays high as asset managers take ‘aggressive measures’ to survive

Average size of PE funds has grown this year: The average PE fund size is skyrocketing in 2019

Mary Meeker raises over $1 billion for her fund, Bond Capital: Mary Meeker raises $1.25B for Bond, her debut growth fund

Vanguard experienced net inflows of $62 billion in the first quarter: Vanguard tops Q1 flows: Morningstar

Potential new changes to Volcker Rule could benefit large banks: Wall Street nears a big win in the latest revamp of Volcker Rule

Actual fee disclosure missing in the Regulation Best Interest proposal: Should the SEC require advisors to make actual fee disclosures, as the EU does?

News and notes (Canada)

TD launches alternative funds for its private wealth management clients: TD Asset Management launches alternative investment funds for HNW clients

 First Asset rebrands ETFs into CI First Asset: First Asset rebrands ETFs and announces risk rating changes 

Canadians interested in responsible investing: RI continues to grow in Canada: Desjardins

The Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan launches investment platform to help late-stage tech companies: Ontario Teachers’ launches venture capital investment platform 

Responding to international events: What should Canadian investors do about the news?

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

How fintech can help the underserved: Fintech touching millions of lives by redefining financial services

Digital transformation must keep the needs of customers in mind: Digital banking transformation requires cultural reboot

Ignore the excuses and begin your digital transformation: There’s no excuse why your financial institution can’t embrace digital transformation

 Fintech and the fourth industrial revolution: Why fintech should embrace the fourth industrial revolution 

Horizontal security layers can minimize the risk of a cyberattack: How horizontal security layers offer your organisation the best protection

People are concerned about their privacy when working with voice assistants: 41% of voice assistant users have concerns about trust and privacy, report finds 

The benefits of a robo-advisor: Key benefits of robo-advisors in fintech

The impact of digital assets on financial markets:
The Blockchain comeback: How institutions effectively use digital assets

TD to adopt Microsoft Azure for its data and AI initiatives: TD Bank opts for Microsoft Azure

Fidelity makes additions to its Wealthscape Integration Xchange: Fidelity expands its digital store for advisors

High-net-worth topics

Forbes Family Trust purchases Optima Fund Management: Forbes Family Trust, LGL buy $2 billion fund manager Optima

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Investors expressed positive sentiment towards the majority of asset classes (Horizons): Advisors and investors are bullish on 10 of 14 asset classes: survey

Americans don’t feel financially prepared for retirement (Fidelity): Americans are confident about their finances. Retirement? Not so much. 

Social and governance issues just as important as environmental concerns (Allianz): Social issues prominent among U.S. ESG investors, survey says

For financial marketing and investment commentary help, contact us at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com.

Tuesday morning briefing – April 23, 2019

Hedge funds can’t ignore the widespread adoption of ESG principles. Family offices becoming the preferred model for high-net-worth advisors. How organizations can optimize their use of data. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

The inflation rate in Canada rose to 1.9% in March: Inflation rises 1.9% on higher fresh vegetable prices, mortgage costs

China’s economy expanded 6.4%, annualized, in the first quarter: China’s economy had a steady start to 2019

Business sentiment is falling: BoC survey finds negative level of Canadian business sentiment

Institutional investors believe that equities are reaching their peak: More than half of institutional investors think equities peaking

Plan Sponsors are using less-conservative default investment options: How default investment funds are becoming smarter

The shift from the AUM pricing model: 5 truths about the pricing revolution in wealth management

What you need to know about a fund’s performance history: How important is a fund’s performance history?

News and notes (U.S.)

The Eurekahedge Hedge Fund Index rose 1.06% in March: Eurekahedge Hedge Fund Index up 1.06 per cent in March

Hedge funds off to a strong start in 2019: Hedge funds had their best first quarter in 13 years to start 2019

Hedge funds can’t ignore the widespread adoption of ESG principles: Hedge funds ponder the ethics of shorting unethical companies

Secondary buyout deals growing: The median size of US secondary buyouts has nearly doubled since 2015

VCs showing interest in the “mystical services market”: Why are venture capitalists pouring billions into astrology?

Mutual fund sales and performance over the past two weeks: Mutual funds scorecard: April 16 edition

Will New Jersey institute a fiduciary rule for financial advisors?: New Jersey moves to impose fiduciary rule on brokers

Ensuring ETF names stay true to their objective and strategy: SEC cracks down on ETF names that could be misleading investors

News and notes (Canada)

BMO looking to expand its alternatives business globally: BMO’s Asset Management arm eyes alts expansion

Ninepoint purchases LOGiQ Global Partners: Ninepoint Partners acquires institutional advisory business

Agora Dealer Services launches wealth management platform for independent advisors: New digital platform for independent advisors

Advisors taking interest in the RI designation: RI designation gaining momentum among advisors

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Canadians are concerned about privacy issues in open banking: Accenture survey reveals consumer hesitancy toward open banking

There’s plenty of opportunity for traditional banks to take advantage of the weaknesses in direct banks: Direct banks may be good, but they’re not unbeatable

A look at the benefits of contactless payments: The benefits of a cashless society

The European Commission provides ethical guidelines on testing new AI systems: European AI guidelines give hesitant developers green light

A look at a few developments in the AI space: 5 artificial intelligence developments to watch

How insurtech is catering to the younger generation: How insurtechs are shaking up a trillion dollar industry

Challenger banks must be able to respond to customer problems: Leaving customers digitally high and dry … big mistake

How organizations can optimize their use of data: The three considerations of data: standardize data, data strategy and data culture

Mastercard purchases POS financing company: Mastercard moves into POS financing with Vyze acquisition

Fintech firm merges with Difference Capital: Digital disruptor Mogo announces merger for accelerated growth

High-net-worth topics

Family offices becoming the preferred model for high-net-worth advisors: For high-net-worth clients, it’s not about the brand name, it’s about the experience

The impact of holding digital assets in trust: Digital assets in Bermuda

Advisors must get to know, and understand, the children of high-net-worth clients: What you need to know about the children of your wealthy clients

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Customer satisfaction with investment firms declined in 2018 (J.D. Power): Canadians’ satisfaction with investment firms drops

58% of millennials in the U.S. are saving for retirement (LendEDU): Most millennials are saving for retirement, prefer human advice: study

Many Americans don’t know about social investing (Newton): New survey finds most Americans unaware of ESG investing

Only 10% of Canadians are very comfortable with self-directed investing (TD): TD survey finds Canadians aren’t comfortable with self-directed investing

For financial marketing and investment commentary help, contact us at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com.

Monday morning briefing – April 15, 2019

Fintech is here and changing the way financial services firms do business. Customers want to purchase banking products and services digitally. Financial success may be harder for the next generation. The number of VC deals was down in the first quarter of 2019. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

U.S. inflation rate rose to 1.9% in March: U.S. inflation vaults at highest rate in 14 mos.

The ECB held its benchmark refinancing rate steady at 0.00%: European Central Bank holds interest rates amid gloomy economic outlook

The IMF downgrades its projection of global economic growth for 2019: The global economy: A delicate moment

Why global warming should be important to investors: Curbing global warming essential to investors and planet: report

How active managers can capitalize on market inefficiencies: Does your active manager have an edge?

Oil prices have moved higher in 2019: Oil rises above US$70 on Libya turmoil

Global ETP industry reached assets of US$5.4 trillion in March: Exchange-traded products industry hits new global record of US$5.4 trillion

News and notes (U.S.)

A look at the hedge fund industry in March: State of the industry – March, 2019

Hedge funds returned 5.40% in the first quarter of 2019: Hedge fund returns YTD best since 2012, says eVestment

Institutional investors are looking to hedge funds to diversify risks: Investors keep patience with hedge funds, but seek better deals on fees

Focus on alternative investments could be beneficial for cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin, BlackRock and the rise of alternatives

Setting guidelines for general partner-led secondary fund restructurings: Your private equity fund wants to restructure. Here’s how to deal.

Number of VC deals down in the first quarter of 2019: Massive drop in VC deal count in Q1 2019

Transit and freight drew a lot of interest from VCs in the first quarter: 1Q in review: VCs are fixated on the future of moving people and things

Principal acquires Wells Fargo’s retirement unit: Wells Fargo agrees to sell retirement unit for $1.2 billion

News and notes (Canada)

Scotiabank launches the Scotiabank Alternative Mutual Fund Index: Liquid alts index launched by Scotiabank

Ninepoint launches private debt fund: Ninepoint casts its eye on US private-debt markets

A look at the best performing mutual funds over the first quarter: Top performing mutual funds of Q1

Foresters to focus on insurance: Foresters sells money manager, keeps life business

Equity issuance fell in the first quarter of 2019: Canadian equity underwriting dropped in Q1, debt ticked up

Ontario looks to make changes to financial advisor titles: Ontario to restrict use of planner and advisor titles

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Fintech is here and changing the way financial services firms do business: How fintech is revolutionizing financial services

Customers want to purchase banking products and services digitally: Banks not meeting digital sales expectations

The battle between globalization and localization in fintech: Time for a global fintech platform?

Adoption of machine learning high among financial services firms, but challenges remain: Use of machine learning now pervasive across financial services industry

A look at real-time payments in the U.S. and projections for its growth: US real-time payments are headed to ubiquity. Are banks ready?

How data sharing can help your organization: How to capitalise on the power of modern data sharing

ETFs have revolutionized investing, but certain challenges and risks remain: How ETFs are the technology that is revolutionizing investing

Banks are showing an interest in Central Bank Digital Currencies: At a glance – Central Bank Digital Currency

Coinbase offers debit card using cryptocurrencies: Coinbase launches debit card in the UK

High-net-worth topics

New partnership looks to increase private equity liquidity for the high-net-worth: iCapital partners with Nasdaq to create marketplace for private funds

Shaping the next generation of high-net-worth advisors: Who will be the HNW advisors of the future?

The high-net-worth market in the U.S. is growing rapidly: US high net worth market expanding at record pace: Cerulli

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Financial success may be harder for the next generation (Ameriprise): Most parents expect to chip in for kids’ college, weddings: Ameriprise

Private company owners do not have a plan in place to transfer their business (PwC): Almost half of business owners fail to plan for succession: survey

Social media is helping advisors grow their business (Putnam): Almost all advisors are using social media: Survey

For financial marketing and investment commentary help, contact us at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com.

Monday morning briefing – April 8, 2019

A look at why fintech firms’ valuations are surging in Latin America. New hedge funds are raising minimum investment amounts. A look at how liquid alts can add value to an investor’s portfolio. How to establish digital trust. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

The U.S. unemployment rate was 3.8% in March: Job market bounces back in March with 196,000 gain in payrolls

The Canadian unemployment rate was steady at 5.8% in March: Canada’s job run stalls in March with first drop in seven months 

Financial institutions need to be prepared for a possible no-deal Brexit: Financial firms should prep for “no deal” Brexit: report

Europe holds the largest amount of sustainable investing assets: Global sustainable investment assets grew by a third in 2 years: report

Preparing investors’ portfolios for a slowing global economy, possible recession: Why investors shouldn’t panic over the yield curve inversion

Regulation is required to protect retail investors: Behavioural economics are useful, but regulation is essential: report

News and notes (U.S.)

New hedge funds are raising minimum investment amounts: New hedge fund study shows funds placing premium on strong start

Institutional investors may increase allocation to private capital: Stock market fears push investors toward alternative assets

Blackstone closing in on largest PE fund ever: Blackstone surpasses $22B mark for what could be biggest PE fund ever

BlackRock undergoes massive organizational changes: BlackRock starts big reorg of leadership, units

A review of M&A activity in 2018: 10 charts detailing the state of M&A in 2018

Year-to-date, 73 funds added ESG criteria to their investment strategy: More funds are formally considering ESG in their investment process

Fixed income ETFs continue to attract investor money: Fixed income ETFs received over $34B in flows during Q1

Mutual fund sales and performance figures over the past two weeks: Mutual funds scorecard: April 2 edition

SEC extends deadline for two bitcoin ETF applications: SEC delays decision on 2 bitcoin ETF filings

News and notes (Canada)

A look at how liquid alts can add value to an investor’s portfolio: Investing in liquid alts

Dynamic launches another liquid alt: Dynamic Funds expands its liquid alt offerings

Russell Investments launches liquid alternative fund: Russell Investments launches new Yield Opportunities Pool

Robust equity markets this year have helped defined benefit plans: Canadian pension plans in strong solvency position in Q1 off surging equity markets

Fiera Capital purchases majority stake in Palmer Capital: Fiera acquires 80% stake in Palmer Capital

Canadian ETFs had net inflows in March, led by fixed income: Net inflows for Canadian ETFs hit $1.9 billion in March

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Banks must remain flexible to adapt to the changing technological landscape: Bank strategy in the world of fintech 

The time is now for digitalization: Banks’ digital experiments need to produce results

A look at how banks and fintech firms can work together: Banks and fintech: Why the future looks brighter together

Why machine learning can help in the stock selection process: Machine learning can help with stock selection: study

 A look at why fintech firms’ valuations are surging in Latin America: Why fintech startups are rapidly becoming unicorns in Latin America 

How to establish “digital trust”: How to empower secure collaboration, communication and sharing in financial services

Interest in cryptocurrencies on the rise in private banks: How private banks are demonstrating interest in digital currencies

Bitcoin’s price spikes: Bitcoin surges as cryptocurrency market suddenly springs to life

High-net-worth topics

Careful estate planning an absolute must for high-net-worth families: U.S. billionaires are living longer, making heirs wait

High-net-worth investors show preference for independent advisors: HNW clients favour independents

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Most retirement plan participants aren’t saving enough for retirement (Natixis): What retirement plan participants want, need

Canadians need to focus on better tax planning throughout the year (CIBC): CIBC poll finds 63% of Canadians view tax refunds as an unexpected ‘windfall’ 

Advisors should strive to create a great client experience (Cerulli): How focusing on client experience helps advisors get ahead

Teens not confident about their financial futures (Junior Achievement USA and Citizens Bank): When it comes to finance, the kids are not all right: survey

For financial marketing and investment commentary help, contact us at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com.

Monday morning briefing – April 1, 2019

Blockchain is a foundational technology that will take decades to foster. The wealth management industry must take note of how women entrepreneurs are managing their portfolios. Banks must partner with tech firms to avoid losing business to challenger banks. Are there enough private investment opportunities to meet demand? And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

U.S. economic growth was revised down to 2.2%, annualized, in the fourth quarter: U.S. economy revises down Q4 growth rate to 2.2% 

What does the inverted U.S. yield curve mean for the economy?: The yield curve just inverted, putting the chance of a recession at 30%

The BoC could be forced to hold interest rates steady as Canada’s yield curve inverted: Canada’s inverted yield curve signals holding pattern for Poloz

FTSE Russell to launch an indicative digital assets index: FTSE Russell to establish indicative digital assets index

Passive to overtake active in the next couple of years, according to Moody’s: Moody’s declares passive investments will surpass active in 2021

Dispelling some ESG investing myths: Ignore the myths: Factor and ESG investing work together

News and notes (U.S.)

Three quarters of hedge fund managers had a positive month in February: Hedge funds continue recovery in February

BlackRock purchases eFront: BlackRock’s Aladdin adds alts power

Are there enough private investment opportunities to meet demand?: Not enough private equity to go around

Charles Schwab introduces flat-fee subscription pricing plan for its premium digital advisory services: Why Schwab’s new pricing plan is a big deal

Regulation Best Interest still a top priority for the SEC: Clayton declines to share timetable for best interest rule

A look at retirement from J.P. Morgan: The 4% retirement rule is back: J.P. Morgan

Public employees likely to stay in retirement plans if they were automatically enrolled: Public fund employees are big fans of auto enrollment – survey

Customized target-date funds’ assets on the rise: Custom target-date funds growing in U.S.: survey

Mutual fund assets were $14.8 trillion at the end of February: Mutual fund assets start year with a growth spurt: Cerulli

News and notes (Canada)

Scotiabank launches the Scotiabank Healthcare+ Physician Banking Program: Scotiabank caters to physicians with new suite of banking services

How the federal budget could impact investors: Federal budget impacts investors, employees, retirees

A look at the OSC’s policy priorities for the next year: OSC will continue to focus on DSCs, client-focused reforms

Onex announces purchase of Gluskin Sheff + Associates: Gluskin Sheff surges on Onex takeover deal 

Now that all of the major banks offer ETFs, will it change the investment fund industry?: ETFs: all the banks are in

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Banks must partner with tech firms to avoid losing business to challenger banks: Citi urges incumbents to grow their own challenger brands as new entrants shrink the market 

Big data can help all facets of the asset management business: Big data helps asset management industry across value chain 

Blockchain is a foundational technology that will take decades to foster: Blockchain is dead 

Eliminating paper cheques for businesses: Mineral Tree offers businesses an alternative to paper checks 

U.K. financial services firms not prepared for the AI revolution: The financial services industry is not ready for the AI revolution, new study finds 

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York establishes advisory group to review and provide guidance on fintech: New York Fed launches fintech advisory group 

The Information Commissioner’s Office in the U.K. looking to provide environment to support innovation: ICO opens sandbox beta phase to enhance data protection and support innovation

A look at the new Apple Card: How Apple Card works

Innisfil, Ontario to begin accepting bitcoin as payment for property taxes: Ontario town to accept bitcoin for tax payments, in one-year pilot project

High-net-worth topics

The wealth management industry must take note of how women entrepreneurs are managing their portfolios: How women entrepreneurs are redefining wealth management:

High-net-worth clients are demanding private investments, here is how to help them: Russ Prince: Here’s how to help your wealthy clients invest in PE

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

More than half of gig workers are saving for retirement (T. Rowe Price): Gig workers report being more involved in their finances 

Signals point to a weak Canadian economy in the first half of 2019 (Russell Investments): Modest weakness for Canada in Q2: Russell Investments

Canadians approaching retirement saw their wealth increase, largely due to real estate (C.D. Howe): Housing market boosted wealth of Canadians approaching retirement

For financial marketing and investment commentary help, contact us at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com.

Monday morning briefing – March, 25, 2019

Understanding the differences between sustainable investing approaches. Companies benefit from API adoption. The financial advice industry needs regulators to act quickly on adopting digital technology. Three key steps to transform a bank. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

The U.S. Federal Reserve Board (“Fed”) held interest rates steady: Fed holds line on rates, says no more hikes ahead this year

Will the pause by the Fed lead to a more vulnerable economy?: Guggenheim’s Minerd says Fed making economy more vulnerable

Canada’s inflation rate rose to 1.5% in February: Inflation edges up, but underlying pressures soften

The BoE maintained its Bank Rate at 0.75%: Bank of England holds interest rates as Brexit extension remains uncertain

Is a trade deal with China still close?: Some U.S. officials said to see China walking back trade pledges

Understanding the differences between sustainable investing approaches: Three approaches to sustainable investing

Low return environment could have institutional investors substantially changing their portfolios: Institutional investors changing portfolios to deal with uncertain markets: survey

News and notes (U.S.)

The Barclay Hedge Fund Index gained 1.24% in February: Hedge funds extend winning streak to a second month, says BarclayHedge

Net flows into hedge funds were weak in February: Hedge funds see lowest February net flows since 2009, despite positive month

MFA head to step down from position at the end of 2019: Head of top hedge fund association to step down

What does the future hold for private equity (“PE”) and the retail industry?: What remains for private equity and retail?

Assets in private debt expected to double in the next five years: Shadow banking tops lending activity in private equity

An in-depth look at the performance of four large PE firms in 2018: A visual representation of 2018 performance from four PE giants

BlackRock cut the fee on its S&P 500 Index Fund for its largest clients: BlackRock charging its lowest fee ever for an index mutual fund

2018 was a tough year for U.S. equity funds: 69% of U.S. equity funds underperformed in 2018

Mutual fund sales and performance over the past two weeks: Mutual funds scorecard: March 19 edition

News and notes (Canada)

RBC launches ESG ETFs: RBC iShares launches six ESG-focused ETFs

Proposed tax changes could affect investment funds: Proposed federal tax changes prompt fund assessments

3iQ to get hearing on Bitcoin fund application: OSC hearing on bitcoin fund set for April

Canaccord Genuity to acquire wealth management business in London: Canaccord Genuity set to acquire Thomas Miller Wealth Management

A look at some of the key items from the 2019 Federal Budget: Highlights from the 2019 federal budget tabled Tuesday

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Will technological advancements change the way that we categorize stocks?: Forget growth vs. value, think digital vs. decline 

An in-depth look at contextual banking: Exceptional customer experiences depend on more than data alone

Open banking and real-time payments could help banks grow: Convergence of real-time payments and open banking helps banks to grow revenue and attract customers

Three key steps to transform a bank: Transforming the bank: Three phases of change

Employing business intelligence software helps firms grow revenue: New research finds business intelligence tech leads to 24% higher revenue

The financial advice industry needs regulators to act quickly on adopting digital technology: Regulators must embrace digital innovation: C.D. Howe

Companies benefit from API adoption: How APIs can transform your company

Amazon Pay will now be available through Worldpay’s API: Worldpay becomes first acquirer to enable Amazon Pay

High-net-worth topics

The high-net-worth are looking for a high level of investment expertise in a wealth manager: Wealthy investors need skilled and savvy advisors

Here are some common wealth transfer concerns of the wealthy: Wealth transfer: the most common question families ask

Helping the high-net-worth with their spending: Inside Merrill’s new framework for wealthy families

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Fitch lowered its 2019 global growth forecast to 2.8% (Fitch): Global growth looks weaker, Fitch says

Allocation to equities falling (Merrill Lynch): Jumpy investors continue to flee stocks: Merrill

Canadians willing to share personal information with financial services firms for lower prices (Accenture): Nearly half of Canadian consumers willing to share significant personal data with banks and insurers in exchange for lower pricing, Accenture Study Finds

For financial marketing and investment commentary help, contact us at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com.

Monday morning briefing – March 18, 2019

Wealth management falling behind in creating a great mobile app experience for clients. Price growth in luxury real estate slowed in 2018. Global banking regulators offer guidance on exposure to cryptoassets. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

International Economic Data Snapshot – includes aggregated data of the worldwide economy: Snapshot: International economic data

The U.S. inflation rate was 1.5% in February: US consumer prices rise for the first time in 4 months

The Bank of Japan held its key short-term interest rate at -0.10%: BOJ keeps policy steady, cuts view on exports and output

Where’s the inflation?: Low inflation is Federal Reserve’s maddening unsolved mystery

London may remain an important financial center, even after Brexit: What does the #brexit vote mean for banking and fintech?

Strategic beta ETPs ended 2018 with $797 billion in assets: Strategic beta ETP market still expanding

Climate change also a risk to life insurers: Why life insurers are investing with ESG in mind

News and notes (U.S.)

A look at the hedge fund industry in February: State of the industry – February, 2019

The Eurekahedge Hedge Fund Index rose 0.86% in February: Hedge funds up 0.86 per cent in a calm month, says Eurekahedge

Unicorns going public: The unicorns are coming (to Wall Street)

Mutual funds participating in shareholder activism: Mutual funds start to put their mouth where their money is

Salt Financial to offer ETF that pays investor: Forget no fees. ETF breaks ground by offering to pay investors

JP Morgan to launch ETF with 0.02% expense ratio: JPMorgan planning cheapest-ever stock ETF

Charles River Development partners with Axioma to enhance its portfolio management platform: State Street ramps up competition with BlackRock’s Aladdin

News and notes (Canada)

Franklin Templeton launches liquid alternative fund: Franklin Templeton introduces alt mutual fund

Canadian annuity sales hit the highest level ever in 2018: Annuity sales hit record highs in 2018, led by buyouts: report

Wealthsimple launches Wealthsimple Trade: Wealthsimple launches zero-commission trading app

CIFSC announces new alternative-focused categories: IFSC category definitions for alternative funds

Brookfield to acquire stake in Oaktree Capital: Brookfield reaches agreement to acquire 62% of Oaktree Capital

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Fintechs have an opening to help small- and medium-sized businesses: SMEs “historically ignored” by banks

The rising importance of a digital scientist: Standardising the data scientist

Looking at the impact from data control on banks and customers: Data control changes are in the air: What does it mean for banks and consumers? 

BNP Paribas launches AI assistant to help customers manage their budget: BNP Paribas Luxembourg brings a touch of Genius to mobile banking app

Fintechs need to be held to the same consumer protection standards as banks: Why are fintechs getting a regulatory pass?

Wealth management falling behind in creating a great mobile app experience for clients: J.D. Power: Wealthy clients not happy with mobile apps

Global banking regulators offer guidance on exposure to cryptoassets: Regulators set guidance for banks’ cryptoasset exposures

High-net-worth topics

Why family meetings should be considered a must for high-net-worth families: The importance of family meetings

The high-net-worth are showing an interest in gold: Fresh optimism on gold, thanks to ‘triple bubble in stocks, bonds and real estate’

Price growth in luxury real estate slowed in 2018: Wealthy investors see end to stellar returns from luxury homes

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Over 20% of working Americans aren’t saving money (Bankrate): Why aren’t Americans saving? They just haven’t gotten around to it, survey says

Canadians struggling with debt (FPSC and Credit Canada): One in 5 Canadians will need to liquidate an asset to pay for debt: survey

Advisors should use the same set of questions for prospective clients (Morningstar): Advisors can reduce gender bias: study

For financial marketing and investment commentary help, contact us at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com.

Monday morning briefing – March 11, 2019

What client on-boarding will look like in the future. The global banking sector has the most exposure to cyber risks. Private equity mandates in emerging markets raised US$90 billion in 2018. And much more in this week’s briefing. Enjoy!

Economic/industry news

International Economic Data Snapshot – includes aggregated data of the worldwide economy: Snapshot: International economic data

The U.S. unemployment rate fell to 3.8% in February: Job creation grinds to a near-halt in February; wages still on the rise

The Canadian unemployment rate was 5.8% in February: Canada’s economy gains 55,900 jobs, beating expectations

The BoC held its central interest rate steady at 1.75%: Bank of Canada waters down rate conviction amid growth slowdown

The ECB held its central interest rate steady: ECB pushes back rate hike, announces new stimulus to revive growth

Tariffs are imposing great costs on American businesses and consumers: Evidence grows that Trump’s trade wars are hitting U.S. economy

The S&P 500 Index bottomed on March 9, 2009. Where does the market stand now?: 10 years after the market hit bottom, where are we now?

Different strategies for ethical investing: How to invest ethically

It’s time to look at the opportunities, not just the risks, from energy transition: Lessons in measuring carbon risk and opportunities in public equities

What Millennials are looking for in a financial advisory firm: Successful millennials want real advice

Why alternative investments should be included in all portfolios: Why alternative investments have a place in your portfolio

The world’s best banks: The world’s best banks: ING and Citibank lead the way

News and notes (U.S.)

JP Morgan’s “2019 Guide to Alternatives”: J.P. Morgan releases 2019 Guide to Alternatives

The market cycle of PE buyouts is quick: Downturn opportunities don’t last long in the world of PE buyouts

Hiring increasing at private capital firms: Private capital firms are beefing up their fundraising teams

How PE can benefit from the qualified opportunity fund: Private equity and the opportunity zone gold rush: Who will seize the opportunity?

PE mandates in emerging markets raised $90 billion in 2018: Private capital fundraising in emerging markets hits record levels in 2018

Interest in PE continues: Blackstone nears $20 billion for flagship buyout fund

Goldman Sachs launches ETFs tracking indices created by Motif: Goldman Sachs and Motif launch 5 ETFs focused on innovation

U.S. individual investors’ allocation to equities increased in February:Asset allocation survey: Equities rebound in February

Mutual fund sales and performance over the past two weeks: Mutual funds scorecard: March 5 edition 

A look at target-date funds’ performance over the past 10 years: Target-date funds: The grades are in

Vanguard announces its upcoming launch of the Global ESG Select Stock Fund: Vanguard plans its first actively managed ESG mutual fund

Apex bolsters its U.S. expansion: Apex acquires Atlantic Fund Services

Coin will allow investors to invest in one or multiple causes: John Hancock startup opens impact investing to the masses   

News and notes (Canada)

IA Clarington launches liquid alternative fund: IA Clarington launches liquid alt, international equity funds

Desjardins launches two ETFs with responsible investing mandates: Desjardins launches two RI ETFs

Canadian ETFs experienced $1.3 billion in net inflows in February: In Canada, 23 ETFs launched in February

Empire Life launches tool to help plan participants track their retirement goals: Empire Life launching retirement and savings tool

IFIC and BEworks provide suggestions on how to improve client statements:How to improve CRM2 statements

Could we see a slowdown in Canadian dividend growth in 2019?: Canadian dividend growth will slow this year

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

The global banking sector has the most exposure to cyber risks: Banking is most exposed sector to cyber risks: Moody’s

Regulatory sandboxes are great for innovation, but there are some limitations: Sandboxes offer key to fintech innovation

Financial services firms have steps to take towards their digital transformation: Financial-services firms falling behind in tech transformation

Customer data vital to the success of digital transformation: Power of customer insights will separate digital banking winners & losers

The adoption of open banking has been limited: Open banking – build it and they will come?

How fintech is helping people meet their financial goals: The effect of fintech on wealth management

Ant Financial launches tool to help financial services firms with their digital challenges: Ant Financial launches core banking product

What client on-boarding will look like in the future: The future of client onboarding for financial institutions

Start with tech, then the financial side: Are banks customer focused?

Tech firms engaged in blockchain development projects: Big tech’s blockchain projects haven’t disrupted banks – yet

One-third of Canadians used a robo-advisor to open or fund an RRSP: Robo advisor RRSP stats a ‘wake-up call’ to firms

High-net-worth topics

The high-net-worth should increase their exposure to private placements: Cambridge Associates: HNW investors should have 40 percent in private placements

Here is where the ultra-high-net-worth live: The top 10 cities where the mega rich live

Stock market volatility hurt U.S. household wealth in the fourth quarter: U.S. household wealth slumped in fourth quarter amid stocks rout

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Canadian businesses may be missing an opportunity to increase revenue through global trade (RBC): Despite opportunity, Canadian businesses see barriers to global trade: RBC poll

More than half of Millennials use or are willing to try using a robo-advisor (Angus Reid): Millennials more likely to try robo-advice, says Angus Reid

Financial assets held by women expected to rise (CIBC): Canadian women to control nearly $4 trillion by 2028

For financial marketing and investment commentary help, contact us at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com.

Monday morning briefing – March 4, 2019

An in-depth look at how Amazon is entering the financial services industry. Eleven fintech firms to keep an eye on. How to attract high-net-worth investors. The four key pillars to help protect your company against cyberattacks. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

International Economic Data Snapshot – includes aggregated data of the worldwide economy: Snapshot: International economic data

U.S. GDP grew 2.6%, annualized, in the fourth quarter: Fourth-quarter GDP increases 2.6%, better than expected

Canadian GDP growth slowed to 0.4%, annualized, in the fourth quarter: Canadian economic growth slowed in the fourth quarter

Canada’s inflation rate fell to 1.4% in January: Canada’s inflation rate falls to 15-month lows on lower gas prices

Global ESG ETFs experienced $730 million of inflows during January: Global inflows into ESG ETFs steady in January

The Financial Conduct Authority found fee disclosures lacking: U.K. Regulator zeroes in on asset managers’ fee disclosures

Bondholders could benefit as companies fear a downgrade: No BBB bust as $140 billion bet on fallen angels is ‘overpriced’

What retirement will look like in the future: 5 trends that could reshape retirement

The challenges of an index becoming more concentrated: S&P 500? More like the S&P 50

A look at four major real estate markets: What’s driving demand in global real estate

News and notes (U.S.)

The Eurekahedge Hedge Fund Index rose 2.35% in January: Hedge funds record best January since 2006

Hedge funds more concentrated in managers’ best ideas: Never before has the fate of hedge funds turned on so few stocks

Hedge fund assets rose despite redemptions: Hedge fund assets up in January as performance offsets investor redemptions

It could be another strong year for PE fundraising: Here’s why 2019 could be another fundraising boom year for US PE

Cost-cutting alone cannot help companies grow: The lesson of The Kraft Heinz nosedive: Radical cost-cutting is out, brands are back

A comprehensive look at women in VC: The VC female founders dashboard

Fidelity has expanded its multi-factor ETF lineup: Fidelity debuts three multifactor ETFs

Another vote on Brexit could be helpful: Carlyle’s David Rubenstein wants second Brexit vote as UK PE deals dwindle

Mutual fund assets rose 5.3% in January: Mutual funds add $947 billion in assets in January

News and notes (Canada)

Mackenzie launched three more liquid alt funds: Mackenzie introduces liquid alt funds

Franklin Templeton launched three ETF portfolios: Franklin Templeton enters ETF portfolio fray

The BoC proposed reforms to the Canadian Dollar Overnight Repo Rate Average: Bank of Canada unveils benchmark reform proposals

The OSC declined a Bitcoin fund application from 3iQ: Regulators refuse proposed Bitcoin fund amid investor protection concerns

Canadian mutual fund assets grew in January, despite net redemptions: Mutual funds saw $53 million in net redemptions for January

Tips to successfully invest in your RRSP: 6 rules for successful RRSP investing

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Automating testing can have a big impact on the success of a digital transformation: Driving a successful digital transformation strategy

Canadian’s usage of alternative payment tools has increased 14% since 2016: Canadians are increasingly choosing alternative payment tools

The growth of payment alternatives will bring new and complex regulatory requirements: Harnessing regtech to build payments reputation

An in-depth look at how Amazon is entering the financial services industry: Everything you need to know about what Amazon is doing in financial services

Financial services companies are expanding their use of AI: The world’s biggest banks are doubling down on artificial intelligence

Cybersecurity spending expected to grow: Cybersecurity spending to reach $223.7 billion by 2024, says Rethink

The four key pillars to help protect your company against cyberattacks: Four steps in cyber risk management

UOB integrating AI to speed up loan process: UOB applies AI to transactional data to speed up loan approvals for SMEs

11 fintech firms to keep an eye on: Fintech focus – 11 to watch now

Retail shopping through virtual reality and blockchain: The convergence of blockchain and online VR retailing

High-net-worth topics

The high-net-worth demand personalization: Themes from the 2019 U.S. Millionaire Report: Personalization

How to attract high-net-worth investors: You don’t need a Super Bowl ad to attract high-net-worth clients

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Global corporate debt reached $13 trillion at the end of 2018 (OECD): Why corporate debt is a risk to the global economy

The majority of economists expect a recession in the U.S. by the end of 2021 (National Association for Business Economics): 75% of business economists expect a US recession by 2021: survey

Women don’t believe they will be able to afford their desired lifestyle in retirement (RBC): A third of Canadian women not confident about maintaining lifestyle in retirement: survey

For financial marketing and investment commentary help, contact us at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com.

Canadian regulatory trends – 2019 and beyond

Ongoing regulatory changes in the financials sector don’t tend to get much press, but they do have a significant and widespread impact on our industry. Read on to learn how you might be impacted by the actions of our country’s many regulators over the coming months and years.

Deferred sales charges fade into obscurity

The elimination of deferred sales charges (“DSC”) has been a popular topic in the Canadian financial services industry over the past couple of years. While the Government of Ontario voted against eliminating DSCs, many firms have already eliminated DSC options in their fund lineups. We expect the firm-led end of DSC to continue in 2019 and beyond.

The rise of liquid alts

Liquid alternatives (“liquid alts”) have been on regulators’ agendas for years. After multiple reviews and comment periods, liquid alts are today considered an asset class of mutual funds and ETFs.

Similar to what occurred in the U.S. and Europe when liquid alts were introduced into those markets, liquid alts will be a game changer for the Canadian hedge fund, mutual fund and ETF industries. Many firms launched liquid alt funds ahead of the official release date and we expect many more liquid alts to be launched in 2019.

The CSA Regulatory Sandbox makes waves

The Canadian Securities Administrators (“CSA”) is dedicated to fostering innovation and advice in financial services technologies. To meet this priority, the CSA has launched the CSA Regulatory Sandbox.

Whether they are a start-up or they are already a large corporation, firms can now get exemptive relief from securities laws if they are taking steps to innovate and enhance Canadian payment systems, creating innovations in open banking, and/or making Canada competitive in the field of financial services disruption.

While 2019 may not be the busiest year for our regulators, their efforts to shape the Canadian financial services industry will definitely continue for many years to come.

Contact us today at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com to find out how regulatory changes will have a direct impact on your marketing efforts this year.

Monday morning briefing – February 25, 2019

Asset allocators are looking for ways to access private equity. Is Apple entering the credit card market? The number of Canada-based targets from activist investors grew in 2018. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

International Economic Data Snapshot – includes aggregated data of the worldwide economy: Snapshot: International economic data

European inflation down to 1.4% in January: Top News: Eurozone consumer inflation slows to 1.4% in January

The U.S. Federal Reserve Board released its policy meeting minutes: Fed releases minutes from Jan. 29-30 policy meeting

Housing and investment risks could put the BoC on hold, for now: Bank of Canada’s Poloz says rate hike path ‘highly uncertain’

Private equity’s interest in ESG is growing: ESG a growing priority for private equity finds PwC survey

Global dividends rose 9.3% in 2018: Global dividends surged to new record in 2018: Janus Henderson

Could a lack of transparency in index creation harm investors?: What’s really in your index fund?

Exchange-traded products continued to experience robust growth: Size of exchange-traded products industry tops US$5 trillion: report

The U.K. government is looking to add more illiquid investments to defined-contribution plans: U.K. consults on incorporating illiquid assets in DC investments

The greatest benefit from ETFs is how you use them: Are ETFs about to rule the world?

News and notes (U.S.)

The Barclay Hedge Fund Index rose 3.88% in January: Hedge funds make solid start to 2019

Institutional investors plan to hold or increase their exposure to hedge funds this year: After hedge funds’ mediocre year, investors still want more

Redemptions from hedge funds were $42.3 billion in December: Hedge fund redemptions hit five-year high of USD42.3bn in December

Corporate VCs invested $52.95 billion into start-ups in 2018: The rise of corporate VC

Newer private equity funds are attracting much more capital than their predecessors: More than 90% of PE funds are outpacing their predecessors

Asset allocators are looking for ways to access private equity: McKinsey: Private equity growth drives creative fund structures

Inflows into active U.S. equity funds outpaced passively-managed funds: Active beat passive in asset flows in January: Morningstar

Mutual fund sales and performance over the past two weeks: Mutual funds scorecard: February 19 edition

Future mergers could have greater government scrutiny: What the T-Mobile, Sprint hearing means for the future of M&A in the US

The SEC issued a proposal to allow IPOs to gauge market interest before filing: SEC proposes easing IPO rules

News and notes (Canada)

CC&L launched three liquid alternative funds: CC&L Funds introduces 3 liquid alts

Provisus Wealth Management launched nine actively managed PTFs: Provisus: We’re putting our money where our mouth is

Impact investments have grown in Canada: Impact investing gains traction in Canada

The number of Canada-based targets from activist investors grew in 2018: ‘You need to watch out’: Activist investing stronger than ever in Canada, M&A lawyer says

International sub-advisors don’t improve performance: International subadvisors don’t have a performance edge

Volatility was good for some active managers in 2018: Stock-pickers need some volatility

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

How to take a step forward in digital banking in 2019: Digital banking strategies and investments for 2019

How private banking can benefit from digitalization: Why digitalization is the way forward for private banking and wealth management

Companies are looking toward a product-based structure to help in their digital transformation: Gartner: organisations shifting to product-centric application delivery model for digital transformation

Customers need to be shown how open banking will help them: Consumers don’t know what open banking is – and that’s OK!

Is Apple entering the credit card market?: Apple could be working with Goldman Sachs on a credit card

There is a big difference between technology and handling a customer’s money: Are you in banking or technology?

A look at what the future may hold for wealthtech: The future of wealthtech

A look back at the technological advancements in the financial services industry, and a look ahead to where the industry is going: The growth of fintech: From the first wire transfer to blockchain technology & beyond

National Bank will use AI software to help with cybersecurity: Element AI, National Bank partner on cybersecurity

Helping institutional investors with digital asset trading: Bank Frick targets institutional investors with digital asset trading

High-net-worth topics

The Mather Group has acquired family office, Astraeus Advisers: Chicago’s Mather Group buys $1 billion family office

High-net-worth clients should be looking at different types of alternative investments: Too few investors are looking beyond stocks and bonds, wealth advisor says

Manulife bolstering its services for the high-net-worth: Manulife targets Canada’s rich in industry a decade behind U.S.

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Important investment themes you need to know for 2019 (Raymond James): 10 hot investment themes for 2019: Raymond James

Advisor-directed clients are receptive to a fee-based structure (Cerulli Associates): Advisor-reliant clients prefer fee-based accounts: survey

Many Canadians don’t understand the difference between an RRSP and a TFSA (BMO): Better advice needed on the difference between TFSAs and RRSPs

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Monday morning briefing – February 19, 2019

Hedge funds can shine amid volatility. The first U.S. bank-backed cryptocurrency may transform payments. Advancing wealthtech through the “American AI Initiative.” Private equity predictions for 2019. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

International Economic Data Snapshot – includes aggregated data of the worldwide economy: Snapshot: International economic data

U.S. inflation rate fell to 1.6% in January: Cheaper gasoline restrains US consumer prices

The Japanese economy expanded 1.4%, annualized, in the fourth quarter: Japan Q4 GDP rebounds but trade frictions remain a concern

U.K. GDP growth slowed in the fourth quarter: Car industry malaise drags down UK GDP growth to 0.3%

ESG funds recorded another strong year in 2018 with $5.5 billion of net flows: ESG funds outperform in growth and returns in 2018: Morningstar

Looking for more ESG disclosures: Institutional investors seeking greater ESG disclosure

ESG investing can provide a lot of benefits to advisors: How ESG rankings can help advisors reduce investment risks

In the world’s largest pension markets, defined contribution plans now hold a greater share of total pension assets: DC pension assets surpass DB in world’s largest markets: report

News and notes (U.S.)

A look at the hedge fund industry in January: State of the industry – January, 2019

The Eurekahedge Hedge Fund Index gained 2.22% in January: Most hedge funds started 2019 on positive note with returns of 2.22 per cent, says Eurekahedge

Market volatility may allow hedge fund managers to shine: Time for active managers to prove their worth

PE buyout multiples have risen, impacting the M&A market: PE-backed companies are catching up to their public counterparts

A look at what might be in store for private equity in 2019: 10 predictions for private equity in 2019

VC firms invested approximately $12 billion into fintechs in 2018: Why venture capitalists love fintechs

VC investors expect to increase their usage of data for investment decisions: Appetite for information growing in VC space: Pitchbook

Expect more active ETFs to be launched: More active ETFs are coming to market

FINRA released guidance on cybersecurity for brokerages: FINRA bolsters its cybersecurity guidance

JP Morgan has created the JPM Coin: JP Morgan is rolling out the first US bank-backed cryptocurrency to transform payments business

Fidelity and Charles Schwab to offer iShares as part of their commission-free trading: Schwab, Fidelity both make big moves on commission-free ETFs

News and notes (Canada)

Liquid alternatives could provide retail investors a hedge against market volatility: New ‘liquid alts’ a hedge against stock and bond volatility

A look at potential new products in the Canadian ETF space: What can Canadian ETF investors expect in 2019?

An analysis of mutual fund categories and their cash holdings: Currency & sector liquidity analysis report: Q4 2018

Canadian CEOs to focus on organic growth in 2019: Canadian CEOs expect global growth to decline or stagnate

National Bank has launched four ETFs, which include a liquid alternatives ETF: National Bank Investments enters ETF market

Invesco launched a Canadian dollar-hedged version of its international low volatility ETF: Invesco adds to currency-hedged Canadian ETF lineup

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

The fintech sector should continue to grow in 2019: Already thriving, the fintech sector is set for more

The “American AI Initiative” will help advance wealthtech: Federal support for artificial intelligence should benefit wealthtech

Banks should turn these technological advancements into opportunities: When banks turn disruption to innovation

Robo-advisors have expanded their offerings by entering the pension market: Are pensions about to change robo-advice?

Fintech to focus on the small business market, not only the consumer market: Small businesses are the next wave of fintech focus

Will smaller banks merge in order to push forward their digital transformation?: Too big to fail … Too small to succeed

A look at why regtech has attracted so much capital investment: This is how global regtech investment more than doubled in 2018

Fintech firms collaborate to launch new chatbot for banks: Fidor partners with Finn AI to launch a new AI-powered chatbot for banks

UBank launched Mia, a digital human to help clients with their home loan application: UBank launches ‘digital human’ home loan assistant

Fenergo has launched a solution to help financial institutions navigate regulations through the client lifecycle: Fenergo reveals client lifecycle management software: Rules as a Service

A look at a few sectors that have benefitted from blockchain technology and should continue to advance its usage in 2019: Which sectors will be first to mainstream blockchain in 2019?

How these four fintech firms are changing the industry: What can four innovative fintech startups and their investors tell us about the future?

Ant Financial enters European market with purchase of WorldFirst: Alibaba’s Ant Financial buys UK currency exchange giant WorldFirst reportedly for around $700M

High-net-worth topics

How ING Trusts can save the high-net-worth in both income and transfer taxes: ING Trusts: The hot trend in HNW estate planning

To avoid losing the assets of your older high-net-worth clients, engage with the younger generation: Your best clients could be gone soon – Are you ready to replace them?

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Fund managers are holding an overweight in cash (Bank of America Merrill Lynch): Fund managers remain bearish despite rally: Merrill

52% of Canadians expect to save money this year (BMO): Canadians optimistic about saving this year

CPPIB sees lower returns ahead: Brace for weaker returns amid global economic winter, says CPPIB chief

For financial marketing and investment commentary help, contact us at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com.

Monday morning briefing – February 4, 2019

A look at digital trends for 2019. Private equity continues to attract assets from public pension plans. ESG measurements are improving. Risk models still require the human touch. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

International Economic Data Snapshot – includes aggregated data of the worldwide economy: Snapshot: International economic data

The Fed holds its target range steady at 2.25% – 2.50%: Fed holds rates stable, pledges ‘patient’ approach, expects ‘ample’ balance sheet

Given a more cautious tone, will the Fed stand pat in 2019?: Fed unlikely to hike rates in 2019

The U.S. unemployment rate rose slightly to 4.0% in January: U.S. job growth jumps; unemployment rate rises to 4.0 percent

Canadian GDP contracts in November: Energy slump drives Canada’s second GDP decline in 3 months

Debunking some misconceptions about liquid alternatives: In defense of liquid-alt ETFs

Family office allocations to hedge funds expected to grow: Family offices increasing hedge fund allocations in 2019

Looking to improve ESG measurements for corporate ratings: S&P Global Ratings, Morningstar raise bar on ESG measurement

ESG ETFs are attracting investor assets: ESG ETFs are gaining traction

A comprehensive look at factor investing: Factor investing: An overview

Data is crucial in selecting equities, but so is the role of humans: The role of data in equities management

News and notes (U.S.)

The Mizuho-Eurekahedge Index outperformed global equities in 2018: Hedge funds recorded best outperformance over equities since 2011 in 2018

It may be a good year for macro hedge fund managers: Where some of the world’s top hedge funds will invest in 2019

Willis Towers Watson is recommending a new approach to selecting hedge funds in institutional portfolios: Willis Towers Watson calls for change in hedge fund industry

A look back at the U.S. venture capital market in 2018: 18 charts to illustrate US VC in 2018

PE continues to attract assets from public pension plans: Public pensions pour more money into private equity

PE middle market fundraising slowed in 2018: Fundraising is flat in the US PE middle market, but it’s not time to panic

U.S. investment banks to move a portion of their London business to Europe: Banks to flee London even if Brexit is cancelled  

Average 401(k) account balances fell in the fourth quarter: Fidelity’s average retirement account balances dropped – the reason why may surprise you

According to Backend Benchmarking, the best overall robo-advisor is Fidelity Go: Fidelity Go ranked best overall robo-advisor

Expect delays from the SEC: SEC back to work, but expect slow response times

News and notes (Canada)

Canadian mutual fund assets fell in 2018, and were negatively impacted by weaker markets: IFIC releases 2018 year-end report

Congratulations to the Fundata Canada award winners: FundGrade A+ Awards

Canadian companies backed by VC attracted $3.5 billion in 2018: Canadian VC-backed companies saw record funding in 2018

A look at the tax environment for 2019: What’s new in taxes for 2019?

NEI’s corporate engagement list for 2019: NEI Investments announces corporate engagement list

Horizons launches two new tax-efficient ETFs: Horizons ETFs expands its innovative lineup of tax-efficient funds

SmartBe Wealth announces launch of first ETF: First SmartBe Wealth ETF trading on NEO

Wealthsimple launches new service for those with over $500k: Wealthsimple unveils premium advice service

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Open banking should be positive for big banks: Big banks poised to gain from open banking

Consumers are concerned about data security in open banking: Data security is the key to unlocking open banking for consumers

A digital strategy can start with financial documentation: Sponsor insights: The growing need for digital tools in financial services

Digital investments could have a big impact on bank’s bottom line: Financial institutions see huge payoffs for digital investments

Risk models still require the human touch: AI replacement of current risk models “a long way” off

Organizing the bank around customer data: Banks need to be technology giants

AI is making “Nudge” techniques even better: AI, behavioural economics and marketing converge

Global Financial Innovation Network announced launch of a pilot program: Regulators open global sandbox

The benefits of a collaboration between insurance companies and insurtech: Why insurtech and incumbent insurers should cooperate

Insurance companies need the right data and the right tools to use that data: Better data, better business: Quality and consistency is key

A look at digital trends for 2019: Digital trends 2019: Every single stat you need to know about the internet

The Cayman Islands could become a hot-spot for digital asset projects: Cayman’s laws well equipped for maturing digital asset market

High-net-worth topics

Helping the high-net-worth spend their money: Merrill Lynch is creating a guide to help wealthy people choose how to spend their money, and there are only 4 options

Business titans express a more cautious tone at Davos: Business elite at Davos strike somber tone this year: ‘Everybody’s a little depressed’

How the high-net-worth can cope with potentially higher taxes: Richest in US have a few tricks to avoid democrats’ tax plan

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Global credit facing headwinds in 2019 (Moody’s): Global credit conditions weaken: Moody’s

ETF assets will continue to grow over the next five years (BMO GAM): Global ETF industry set to surge in five years – but not as much as Canada

Debt inhibiting purchasing decisions of Canadians (Angus Reid): How debt is interfering with clients’ plans

RRSP savings have risen, led by millennials (BMO): RRSP holdings increase, driven by millennial savers: BMO study

For financial marketing and investment commentary help, contact us at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com.

Monday morning briefing – January 28, 2019

The new technologies that European banks are prioritizing. The possible impact of an Amazon chequing account. The shift from passive to strategic beta and active. The practices FINRA will focus on in 2019. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

International Economic Data Snapshot – includes aggregated data of the worldwide economy: Snapshot: International economic data

The Chinese economy grew 6.4% in the fourth quarter: China sees slowest economic growth since 1990

ECB maintains benchmark refinancing rate at 0%: ECB holds rates steady, guidance unchanged

BoJ holds interest rates steady: Bank of Japan keeps interest rates steady and cuts inflation forecast

Central banks may hold steady in early 2019: What to expect from central banks in 2019

U.S. recession in 2020 possible, according to Ray Dalio: Ray Dalio, founder of the world’s biggest hedge fund, sees a ‘significant risk’ of a possible US recession in 2020

The intertwining of impact investing and philanthropy: How impact investing can amplify philanthropic efforts

Some ESG trends you need to know: Five ESG trends to focus on for 2019

SG funds continue to attract large amounts of capital: Bucking the trend, flows into ESG funds set another record in 2018

Desjardins has launched the Desjardins Alt Long/Short Equity Market Neutral ETF: Desjardins introduces alternative ETF

CIBC launches CIBC Smart Investment Solutions: CIBC combines active and passive strategies in new portfolios

CI Investments launches ETF portfolios: CI introduces actively managed ETF portfolios

Fidelity introduces new ETFs to its lineup: Fidelity launches new factor ETFs, mutual funds

Happy Birthday, TFSA: The TFSA turns 10

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

How businesses can seize the opportunity in a fast-changing world: Navigating a world of disruption

How banking experts would launch their brand new bank: How banking providers can get their digital strategy right in 2019

Here are a few technologies that could impact financial services firms this year: Five emerging tech trends to watch in 2019

The asset management industry could benefit from regtech: How regtech will digitally transform asset management in 2019

The potential impact of an Amazon chequing account: An Amazon checking account could displace $100 billion in bank deposits (but it won’t)

Financial services firms should be prepared to enter the “greenfield”: Banks should take a page from fintechs on innovation

A look at some digital transformation myths: Busting five myths of digital transformation

Governments should provide a supportive environment for AI: Artificial intelligence initiatives need government support

How SMEs will benefit from fintech: Emerging fintech innovations set to influence SME lending in 2019

The government shutdown putting the country at risk of cyberattacks: With cybersecurity threats looming, the government shutdown is putting America at risk

Which new technologies European banks are prioritizing: Improving product agility is now a priority for 51% of European Banks, according to Temenos

A view from the inside on new technologies: The promises and pitfalls of new technologies

AI versus humans in the credit decision-making process: AI to outperform human credit decisions by 2024 – survey

IBM a number of health care insurance companies are looking to create a blockchain network for the health care industry: IBM teams up with healthcare firms for blockchain initiative

Understanding of blockchain lacking: New research points to poor understanding of blockchain amongst senior business execs

News and notes (U.S.)

The hedge fund industry experienced $35 billion in redemptions in 2018: 2018 was a challenging year for hedge funds, says eVestment

Center Lake Capital posted a 76% return in 2018: This hedge fund blew the doors off in 2018

Get to know Seth Klarman: Hedge fund billionaire Seth Klarman: The ‘most influential investor you’ve probably never heard of’

JP Morgan’s outlook on the alternative investment industry: JP Morgan’s 2019 Alternatives Outlook highlights opportunities across hedge funds, private equity, private credit, real estate and real assets

The potential drawbacks of the significant capital raises by private equity: The consequences of PE’s fundraising arms race

Natural resources attracting private capital: Private investment in natural resources hits record high

A look at some trends in the U.S. PE industry: More deals, fewer funds and other US PE trends in 9 charts

Shifting from passive to strategic beta and active: ETF providers pivot to strategic beta, active management

Outflows from long-term U.S. funds at its highest level since 2008: Investors showed major risk aversion in 2018

Government shutdown forces Cboe’s withdrawal of its bitcoin ETF application: Cboe’s bitcoin ETF application pulled after repeated SEC delays

Portfolios need to be more diversified, according to BlackRock: BlackRock: Advisors are overweight equities and ill prepared for 2019

Here is what practices FINRA will focus on in 2019: Finra to target online sales practices of broker-dealers

A deep dive into the pros and cons of a wealth tax: Opinion: How a wealth tax would work in the United States

High-net-worth topics

It is getting harder to attract capital from the high-net-worth: Fleeing clients are grim reality in banks’ push to manage wealth

The number of high-net-worth individuals globally expected to grow over the next five years: Global wealthy projected to grow 6.1% annually in next 5 years

The average age of the rich is dropping: Survey of U.S. investors finds the rich are getting younger

How the high-net-worth should handle a divorce: What Jeff and MacKenzie Bezos (and all high-net-worth couples) need to do to avoid a messy divorce

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

IMF expects global economic growth of 3.5% in 2019 (IMF): IMF cuts world growth forecast to 3.5%

42% believe that the Canadian economy will worsen in 2019 (FPSC): 4 in 10 Canadians think the economy will be worse this year

Almost 75% of portfolio managers expect a recession (BCG): Portfolio managers believe recession is near

For financial marketing and investment commentary help, contact us at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com.

Monday morning briefing – January 21, 2019

How technology will impact banking this year. Private equity showing a lot of interest in franchise chains. Personalized service key for millennial banking customers. Here are some important trends family offices should be focused on. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news 

International Economic Data Snapshot – includes aggregated data of the worldwide economy: Snapshot: International economic data

Canada’s inflation rate increased to 2.0% in December: Canadian inflation unexpectedly accelerates on airfare surge

U.K. inflation rate falls to 2.1% in December: Inflation falls to lowest level in nearly two years

Brexit deal rejected by Parliament: Theresa May loses Brexit deal vote in Parliament

Is debt the primary catalyst for U.S. growth?: Gundlach warns U.S. economy is floating on ‘an ocean of debt’

Alternative investments could help investors navigate through challenging markets: Increased volatility in 2019 will benefit alt investments, J.P. Morgan says

Liquid alternatives should be used for diversification within a well-constructed portfolio: ‘Liquid alts are a diversification tool not a hedge’

Obtaining ESG data is costly: The rising cost of socially responsible investing

Is now the time for a little more international diversification?: Time for more international exposure?

The investment industry’s approach to managing funds, and selling them, has changed: Data picks investments, storytelling sells them  

Waypoint to launch Waypoint All-Weather Portfolio: Waypoint seeking to start one of Canada’s largest hedge funds

MD Financial launches MD Precision Index Portfolios: MD Financial launches index portfolios

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

How technology will impact banking this year: 10 ways technology will change banking in 2019 

Keeping the focus on the customer: Digital banks are led by clear customer-obsessed principles

A look back at the first year of open banking: Infographic: one year of open banking 

Personalized service key for millennial banking customers: A year into open banking, 8 of 10 millennials would switch banks for personalised service

How to prepare your employees for AI: 3 ways to prepare your bank’s workforce for AI

How to obtain value from your data management efforts: 6 trends in insight driven data management

The questions that you need to answer for a successful digital transformation: Digital transformation: Three top questions answered

Facial recognition is a powerful tool, but needs to be regulated: Regulating facial recognition

Temenos to partner with Bloomberg for NAV estimates: Temenos signs strategic collaboration with Bloomberg to deliver industry-first solutions to buy-side institutions

Fintech merger estimated at $22 billion announced: Fiserv is buying First Data in a $22B fintech megadeal

Fintech firm, Plaid, purchases Quovo: Plaid buys Quovo in its first major acquisition

News and notes (U.S.)

 Founder of Vanguard, John C. Bogle, passed away at the age of 89: Jack Bogle, founder of Vanguard Group and creator of the index fund, dies at age 89

 The Barclay Hedge Fund Index fell 2.61% in December: Barclay Hedge Fund Index drops 2.61% in December; difficult 2018 ends with Index down 5.11% for the year

There could be a shift towards global macro managed futures and fixed income strategies: Rising concerns over slowing economic growth in 2019 could drive changes in hedge fund investing, says new survey 

PE had its biggest year since 2007: Massive 4Q leads to PE’s biggest year since the crisis

Private equity showing a lot of interest in franchise chains: Private equity is buying more franchise systems – here are the key legal issues they are looking at 

While assets are booming, costs continue to rise: Investors see PE opportunity but margins need to improve

End of trade dispute with China could boost equity markets: Head of world’s largest asset manager says stock market has hit a bottom – but this would make it surge

Looking to change the SEC’s Regulation Best Interest Proposal: Fiduciary groups meet in joint resistance to SEC Reg BI

Fixed income ETFs in the U.S. accrued $97 billion in assets in 2018: Fixed income ETF volume jumped in 2018, says BlackRock

Ten straight months of redemptions push Bill Gross’ bond fund under $1 billion: Bill Gross’s bond fund dips under US$1B after redemptions

High-net-worth topics

Here are some important trends family offices should be focused on: What do banks believe family offices should focus on?

Tax reform that could help the high-net-worth: Opportunities for wealthy clients under tax reform

BMO brings together private banking and full-service brokerage units: BMO creates BMO Private Wealth Canada and Asia

The total wealth of Canada’s high-net-worth fell 1.2% in 2018: Canada is 7th in the world for HNWIs but wealth has slipped

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Less than 15% of fund managers expect a global recession in 2019 (Merrill Lynch): Fund managers’ outlook for growth and profits is bleak: Merrill

Global growth is slowing (Fitch): Global growth is slower but not stalled: Fitch

Entrepreneurs to scale back investment in 2019 (BDC): Canada’s entrepreneurs are cautious about investment

Canadians feel that they don’t have enough for retirement (TD): Growing number of Canadians unprepared for retirement

Millennials say saving for a down payment is the biggest challenge to home ownership (Clever Real Estate): How millennial homebuyers approach the housing market

For financial marketing and investment commentary help, contact us at 1.844.243.1830 or info@ext-marketing.com.