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Monday morning briefing: The trillion dollar club

BlackRock will ask companies to disclose climate-related risks. The fintech industry could be squeezed by a market downturn. Private equities fundraising may decline in 2020. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

The U.S. inflation rate was 2.3% in December: US consumer prices gain slightly; underlying inflation tame

China’s economy grew 6.0% (annualized) in the fourth quarter: China just reported its weakest annual growth in 29 years

JPMorgan’s outlook for alternative investments in 2020: What J.P. Morgan sees for hedge funds, real estate, other alt investments in 2020

ICE to enter ESG data business: ICE to launch ESG data service

Sustainable funds had flows of US$20.6 billion in 2019, setting a record: Sustainable fund flows smashed records in 2019: Morningstar

Chart of the week – The trillion dollar club

Alphabet (Google) surpassed a market capitalization of US$1 trillion last week, joining an exclusive club. So far, only tech firms have joined the club. Currently, three firms – Apple, Microsoft and Google – have trillion dollar valuations. Amazon hit the $1 trillion mark in 2019, but a subsequent decline in its share price pulled its market cap back to $929 billion. The next largest firms by market cap are Facebook and Berkshire Hathaway, but both have a long way to go in order to join the club.

Let us know who you think may be next?

Used with permission of Bloomberg Finance L.P.

News and notes (U.S.)

A look at the hedge fund industry in December: State of the industry: December 2019

The keys to success of top-performing hedge fund managers: This is what sets top-performing hedge fund managers apart 

PE fundraising may decline in 2020: After record-breaking 2019, US PE fundraising expected to dip in 2020

The evolving environment for traders: Bonus culture on Wall Street is coming to an end

BlackRock will ask companies to disclose climate-related risksBlackRock makes climate change a top priority

News and notes (Canada)

Picton Mahoney completes acquisition of certain alternative fund assets from Vertex One: Picton Mahoney expands further into alternatives with acquisition

Canadian VC investment reached US$1.17 billion in 2019: Canadian VC investment had a record year in 2019

The TSX is set to release the S&P/TSX Cannabis Index: TSX sparks up new pot index

Mortgage borrowing slowed in November: Household credit growth slows in November

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Learning from the new banking environment in China: The future of banking has arrived

Using technology to enhance the customer experience: Driving emotional transformation

Big firms are benefiting from fintech companies: How the largest firms depend on fintech startups

Reducing loan default risks using machine learning: How machine learning is reducing loan defaults and easing debt recovery

Understanding some of the limitations of personalization: How personalization strategies can backfire on financial marketers

Visa purchases Plaid: Visa buys financial technology company Plaid for $5.3B

The fintech industry could be squeezed by a market downturn: Bye-bye fintech

High-net-worth topics

Helping the high-net-worth access blockchain investments: Guiding HNW clients on blockchain investment options

Is now the time to sell a private, family-owned business?: Family-owned businesses urged to sell before the party ends

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Longer lifespan linked to education and income (StatsCan): Gains in lifespan, health not equal: StatsCan study

Less U.S. investors are worried about a recession (Allianz): U.S. investors’ concerns over market volatility eased in Q4: Allianz

Younger Canadians are spending more time worrying about money (Scotiabank): Millennials worry more about money than older Canadians: poll

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Monday morning briefing: Spotlight on global manufacturing

What 2020 may look like for the retirement plan market. What customers consider when changing banks. Why growth in family offices may continue. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

U.S. unemployment rate was unchanged in December: U.S. creates 145,000 jobs in December as hiring slows and wage growth softens

The Canadian unemployment rate was lower in December: December caps Canada’s second-best year for jobs since 2007

Possible investment themes to watch for in 2020: 10 hot investment themes for 2020

MSCI introduces 15 corporate bond indexes: MSCI introduces its first bond market indexes

The time is now for fiscal policy: Monetary policy no longer the best tool for supporting economic growth

How to position a portfolio for the upcoming year: Portfolio positioning in 2020

Chart of the week – Spotlight on global manufacturing 

 

Global trade uncertainty has impacted many facets of the global economy, especially manufacturing. Manufacturing has seen a sharp slowdown around the world, which has negatively impacted economic growth. Major manufacturing nations, including the U.S., Canada, Japan, China and Germany, have all experienced weakness in this sector. Given the partial U.S.-China agreement announced near the end of 2019 manufacturing could experience a rebound and support stronger economic growth in 2020.

Let us know what you think.

Used with permission of Bloomberg Finance L.P.

News and notes (U.S.)

Agecroft’s predictions for the hedge fund industry in 2020: Top hedge fund industry trends for 2020

Hedge funds had strong performance in 2019: Hedge funds just saw strongest year since 2009, but lag stock market

Do poorer returns correlate with size?: Don’t blame bigger funds for disappointing private equity returns

Platinum Equity raises US$10 billion: Platinum Equity becomes latest PE heavyweight to raise $10B fund

What 2020 may look like for the retirement plan market: 2020 outlook for Plan Advisors

Mutual fund sales and performance over the past two weeksMutual funds scorecard: January 7 edition

News and notes (Canada)

Canadian underwriting grew in 2019: Canadian securities issuance rose in 2019

Risks to the Canadian economy: BoC governor says protectionism, housing market are risks

Looking at the delivery of investor disclosure documents: CSA launches consultation on investor disclosure

Canadian ETFs had $28 billion of inflows in 2019: ETFs outsell mutual funds for second straight year

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

What may be next for banks, credit unions and fintechs: Why fintech challengers may not conquer banking after all

What’s in store for the fintech industry: Ten years of fintech megatrends for the next decade

Technology forecast for 2020: 2020: A decade in technology

What customers consider when changing banks: The 4 things that matter most to consumers in selecting a new bank

Changes may be coming to the digital economy: Why the digital economy is set for a correction

YieldStreet partners with Citi to offer access to private credit markets: Citi partners with YieldStreet to offer investment opportunities to the masses

Many U.K. Millennials are using challenger banks: 1 in 3 millennials say their primary bank is a challenger

High-net-worth topics

Why growth in family offices may continue: Opportunities abound within the family office space

How the wealthy can protect their portfolios during times of geopolitical tensions: Tiger 21 founder addresses on Fox Business how to protect your portfolio from geopolitical risks

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

The personality of an ETF investor (IFIC): ETF investors: well-informed and independent

How advisors can differentiate themselves (Morningstar and Mercer): 5 ways advisors can stay ahead of the competition

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Monday morning briefing: A look at the current equity run

What could be in store for the hedge fund industry in 2020? A look at the remarkable return of Bitcoin. A survey of some federal tax changes in 2020. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

Canadian manufacturing pulls back in December: IHS Markit Canada Manufacturing PMI

China’s central bank reduces the reserve requirement ratio: China cuts banks’ reserve ratios again, frees up $115 billion to spur economy

Underwriting of global debt surged higher in 2019: A record year for global debt issuance

M&A activity across the world slowed last year: M&A activity declined in 2019

Millennials’ interest in ESG investing will impact markets: Millennials’ ESG investing will transform markets, DeVere Group says

Chart of the week – A look at the current equity run

What a decade it’s been for equities. The prolonged bull market has rewarded those investors who stayed the course with steady gains. Will the next decade bring more of the same, or are we due for a pullback? Let us know what you think. 

Used with permission of Bloomberg Finance L.P.

News and notes (U.S.)

Hedge funds’ performance fees fell in 2019: Hedge fund fees plummeted further in 2019

An overview of the mutual fund industry in 2019: Mutual funds scorecard: 2019 in review

What could be in store for the hedge fund industry in 2020?: 20/20 foresight for hedge funds in 2020?

Vanguard to offer free online trading for stocks and options: Vanguard joins the crowd, drops commissions on stocks and options trades 

News and notes (Canada)

Will Ontario eliminate the DSC?: Investor advocate group expects Ontario to buckle on DSCs

A look at some federal tax changes in 2020: Lower taxes, new RRSP rules and digital news tax credit among 2020 changes

IIROC looking to support its dealer members: IIROC vows to support industry transformation

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Some fintech predictions for the year ahead: Five fintech predictions for 2020, according to Kleiner Perkins

The path to becoming a digital institution: How to make your financial institution digital-first in 2020

Three trends in open source storage: Open source storage: driving intelligence in the small data sprawl era

A look at the remarkable return of Bitcoin: Bitcoin’s 9,000,000% rise this decade leaves the skeptics aghast

How fintech partnerships can help advisors: Taking a 2020 view of fintech in wealth management

High-net-worth topics

The number of high-net-worth individuals in Canada expected to grow: When it comes to wealth opportunity, Canada’s perfectly average

How the high-net-worth maintain their wealth across generations: 100 families’ secrets to staying wealthy for 100 years

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Canadians looking to eliminate debt in 2020 (CIBC): Getting out of debt remains Canadians’ top financial priority in 2020: poll

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Monday morning briefing: Emerging markets equities poised for a comeback?

Why the 40 in 60/40 needs to change for investors. A look back at the decade in VC. The importance of data ethics. And is too much choice bad for advisors? These stories and much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

Canadian inflation rate was 2.2% in November: Canadian inflation accelerates to 2.2%, core highest in a decade

The BoE holds Bank Rate steady at 0.75%: Bank of England keeps interest rates on hold

Why the 40 in 60/40 needs to change: Hey 60/40 investors: You need a new ‘40’

Three trends for investors and financial advisors: 3 trends investors and financial advisors should heed in 2020 

Why corporate debt could be problematic for the global economy: China corporate debt flagged as ‘biggest threat’ to global economy

Chart of the week – Emerging markets poised for a comeback?

Let’s take a look at emerging markets stocks over the past five years. Emerging markets have underperformed developed markets over the past five years, particularly over the last couple of years as trade tensions intensified. As emerging markets countries are often export-heavy economies, the slowdown in the global economy has hurt performance. However, the partial trade agreement between the U.S. and China on December 13 has sparked a surge in performance among emerging markets equities. If trade tensions ease further and global economic growth ticks higher, will emerging markets equities gain traction and outperform developed markets? It may be time. Let us know what you think.

Used with permission of Bloomberg Finance L.P.

News and notes (U.S.)

A look at the hedge fund industry in NovemberState of the industry: November 2019

Risk-on sentiment among fund managers is back: Why fund managers are cranking up the risk

A look back at the decade that was in VC: VC’s decade in data: How the 2010s reshaped a market

Money market funds attracting a substantial amount of inflows: Investors favor money markets over stock and bond funds: Morningstar

Retail investors will gain more exposure to private markets: SEC votes to give retail investors more access to private markets

News and notes (Canada)

29 liquid alternative funds were launched in 2019: Fund managers have jumped into liquid alts, DBRS reports

Sun Life takes majority interest in InfraRed Capital Partners: Sun Life to expand infrastructure expertise with investment in InfraRed

What may be in store for Canadian alternative investments: A 2020 vision for Canadian alternative investments

A look at the changes to the Basic Personal Amount: New basic personal amount for 2020

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Be prepared for a bigger adoption of mobile wallets: Why banks should care about mobile wallets (even if consumers don’t)

A look at some trends in cybersecurity for the year ahead: 10 cyber security trends to look out for in 2020

The importance of data ethics: Data ethics – what is it good for?

Why demand for regtech is expected to grow: Capital markets regtech in review

PayPal enters the Chinese payments market: PayPal completes GoPay acquisition, allowing payments platform to enter China

Why too much choice may be bad for advisors: Advisers are drowning in fintech choices

High-net-worth topics

UBS makes changes to its ultra-high-net-worth unit: UBS Group to revamp unit for ultra-high net worth clients

High-net-worth individuals are increasing their exposure to real estate, cash: Here’s where the wealthiest investors are finding opportunities

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Contributions to TFSA accounts grew in 2019 (BMO): Annual TFSA contributions up 10% on average: survey

74% of investors want financial advice from a human (IIROC): Investors prefer human advice: survey

The percentage of women directors on boards rose in 2019 (MSCI): Slow gains for female board membership: report

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Monday morning briefing: The inverted yield curve

A new way to analyze equity investment funds. Why smaller could be better for private equity. Many aspiring investors don’t know how to get started. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

The Fed held its federal funds rate steady: Fed holds rates steady and indicates no changes through at least 2020

Canadian and U.S. consumers in much different positions: U.S. consumers buoy global economy, while Canadians face debt

A new way to analyze equity investment funds: Morningstar launches a new framework to analyze equity funds

Why advisors need to frequently review their pricing structure: Advisors need to regularly reassess their fees, TD Exec says

The need to cross boundaries to drive growth: Investment managers must cross boundaries, says Deloitte

Chart of the week

In late August, the two- and 10-year yield curve inverted, seeing its spread dip into negative territory. This inversion was brought on by concerns about the global economy in response to escalating U.S.-China trade tensions. This sparked fears that a recession was imminent as was the case with previous inversions. While the global economy has been sluggish, the U.S. and China appear to be closing in on a phase-one trade deal that might help reignite global growth. According to a recent report by Goldman Sachs, the possibility of a recession in 2020 is low. Will we see a recession in the next year or two? Or, will a recession be avoided and slow growth continue? Let us know what you think.

Used with permission of Bloomberg Finance L.P.

News and notes (U.S.)

Hedge funds rose 0.84% in November: Eurekahedge Hedge Fund Index up 0.84 per cent in November

Conversation with Stephen Schwarzman: Stephen Schwarzman doesn’t stop: An exclusive Q&A with Blackstone’s chief

Why smaller could be better for private equity: The truth about private equity fund size

A look at some year-end financial planning tips: Sixteen year-end financial planning tips

Remembering Paul Volcker: There’s the legend of Paul Volcker and the man I got to know

News and notes (Canada)

How Canada may benefit from the new USMCA: ‘A really good deal for Canada’: Former ambassadors on new NAFTA

Looking to eliminate redundancies in investor disclosure documents: IFIC asks CSA to reconsider fund disclosure rules

BoC Governor will not seek a second-term: Bank of Canada says Poloz will not seek a second term as governor

The potential impact from a higher tax-exempt basic personal amount: How the federal tax cut will impact clients

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Banks should disrupt themselves before others do: How banking can avoid being disrupted in 2020 … disrupt themselves

Why partnerships are key for traditional and challenger banks: The growing trend of ecosystems within financial services

Preparing for augmented analytics: Augmented analytics: Are you ready?

Driving growth through new technology: Wealth manager using technology to drive next phase of growth

A look at the possible risks posed by BigTech firms entering the financial services industry: Rise of the machines: BigTech poses risks to financial system, FSB says

Helping businesses manage receipts: Metro Bank trials digital business receipts

High-net-worth topics

Why family offices should take a deeper look at sustainable investments: As high-net-worth families shift wealth to the next generation, family offices should lean in on sustainable investments

A look at the blockchain-related investments available to high-net-worth investors: Blockchain investment opportunities for HNW clients

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Many aspiring investors don’t know how to get started (IIROC): Aspiring investors don’t know where to find advice: survey

A look at Americans’ top financial priorities next year (Fidelity): Here are Americans’ financial goals for 2020: Fidelity

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New Market Outlook: 20/20 Vision

Check out our new Market Outlook: 20/20 Vision.

It’s that time of the year again: when intelligent and experienced investors and economists – and the ext. team – predict what’s going to happen over the next 12 months.

This coming year is a tough one to predict. The health of financial markets and economies around the world will likely be severely impacted by political uncertainty in North America and abroad.

Trade tensions that never seem to end, the unexpected rise of populism in the West, ongoing mixed messages from equity and bond markets, and the upcoming U.S. election in November – these are the issues that send jitters up the spine of even the most stoic investors globally.

What’s our conclusion? Markets this year will be driven more by politics than fundamentals.

Click here to read the report.

Monday afternoon briefing: Small caps vs. large caps

A look at the top performing hedge fund strategies. The holdings of different generations. Europe is seeing a large increase in wearable payments. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

The Bank of Canada held interest rates steady at 1.75%: Bank of Canada holds rates steady, citing ‘intact’ global recovery

Canada’s unemployment rate rose: Canada posts largest job loss since 2009 on full-time drop

U.S. labour markets were strong in November: Jobs growth surges in November, beating Wall Street expectations

Institutional investors’ looking to protect their portfolios: Global institutional investors sober as markets rally: survey

The challenges 2020 may bring: What headwinds do stocks face going into 2020?

Understanding the screening process of responsible investments: Lifting the veil on RI screening

Chart of the week

Since the end of 2016, small-caps have underperformed large-caps, as measured by the Russell 2000 Index and Russell 1000 Index, respectively. It’s not surprising given global trade tensions and their influence on equity market volatility. Investors have largely turned to larger-cap securities given their relative safety. If the U.S. and China reach a phase-one trade pact, will small-caps stocks take the lead? Let us know what you think.

Used with permission of Bloomberg Finance L.P.

News and notes (U.S.)

Helping first-time managers raise money: These firms are helping managers beat their private capital fundraising goals

A look at the top performing hedge fund strategies: Equity long bias strategy tops hedge fund performance in 2019

Co-CEO of Bridgewater to leave firm: Murray to leave Bridgewater Associates

J.P. Morgan launches new ETF: J.P. Morgan Asset Management expands BetaBuilders suite

News and notes (Canada)

Horizons completes its corporate class reorganization: Horizons reorganizes 44 ETFs as corporate-class funds

Novacap launches Novacap Financial Services I: Private equity firm Novacap launches financial services fund

PE activity in Canada has slowed in 2019: Canadian PE industry on pace for investment slump

Onto the next step for a bitcoin fund: 3iQ files preliminary prospectus for Bitcoin fund

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

How changing technology will impact banking in 2020: The biggest technology trends that will disrupt banking in 2020

How tech and analytics are helping PE companies: Progressive VCs and private equity are using tech and analytics to revolutionize investing

Why regulators need to accept fintech in the banking industry: BankThink Charter or not, fintechs are already ‘banking’

Broadridge launches new AI tool: Broadridge launches new AI and machine learning platform for reconciliation, matching and exception management operations

A spotlight on emerging cities and fintech: Global fintech ranking shows importance of emerging cities

Europe is seeing a large increase in wearable payments: Wearable payments show sharp rise in uptake

High-net-worth topics

European private equity firms eyeing technology investments: Why Europe’s wealthy are betting on tech like never before

Younger U.S. high-net-worth investors showing interest in ESG: Wealthy, young investors driving shift to ESG, Cerulli reports

How the 2020 tax changes may impact the wealthy in the U.S.: What wealthy clients need to know about 2020 tax changes

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

A look at the holdings of different generations (Charles Schwab): Self-directed millennials invested more in cash, ETFs than older investors

Business leaders uncertain about the outlook for the Canadian economy (CPA): Survey uncovers growing pessimism about Canada’s economy

A look at the struggles facing those who entered the labour market during the financial crisis (RBC): The struggle really is real for young investors

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

Monday morning briefing: 25 years of value vs. growth

Value versus growth over the past 25 years. Private debt fundraising down in 2019. Working on an approach to DSC. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

Canadian GDP grew 1.3% in third quarter: Canada’s economy slows in third quarter even as demand jumps

Europe continues to favour active management: McKinsey: Where active management survives

There’s still a place for value investing: Has value investing stopped working?

Why small-cap stocks may be set to soar: Small may turn mighty as strategists see Russell strength ahead

M&A deals in financial services was US$57 billion in the third quarter: Financial sector M&A jumps in Q3, GlobalData

Why private equity can help a portfolio during a market downturn: Worried about a downturn? Consider private equity

Investors concerned about interest rates: Global investors cite interest rates as key portfolio risk: survey

Current market conditions may require a unique approach to active management: Revisiting active management and asset allocation

Chart of the week

Let’s look at value versus growth stocks on the S&P 500 Index since 1995. Toward the end of the 1990s and early 2000s, growth stocks surged higher in response to the dot-com bubble. After moving in lockstep until the 2008 financial crisis, growth stocks began outpacing value stocks. Is value investing in trouble or is it primed for a comeback? Let us know what you think.

Used with permission of Bloomberg Finance L.P.

News and notes (U.S.)

The Volcker Rule’s impact on hedge funds: The great hedge fund retreat

Private debt fundraising down in 2019: Against expectations, private debt fundraising saw a decline in 2019

The risks of unitranches: A booming corner of private credit has some investors on edge

Why it’s important to invest across vintages: In private equity, vintage diversification matters

Mutual fund sales and performance over the past two weeks: Mutual funds scorecard: November 26 edition

New rules proposed to make it easier for leveraged funds to come to market: SEC proposes new rule to ease the market entry of leveraged funds

Charles Schwab to purchase TD Ameritrade: Schwab to acquire TD Ameritrade in US$26-billion deal

Looking to allow private companies to raise money through a direct listing: NYSE proposes big change to direct listings

News and notes (Canada)

TD launches 10 new ETFs: TD Asset Management introduces new ETFs

CI takes stake in U.S. RIA firm: CI Financial buys US advisory firm

Canadian ETF assets rose to $192.3 billion in October: ETF sales rebound, mutual fund sales hold steady in October

Working on an approach to DSC: OSC decision on DSCs to come – eventually

Here are the winners from the Women in Wealth Management awards: Women in Wealth Management award winners revealed

IIROC provides updated guidance on AML requirements: IIROC steps up AML guidance

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

The importance of customer engagement: Reinventing retail banking customer experience in a digital world

How the entry of Big Techs into banking may impact fintech companies: Should ‘fintech’ fear big tech’s push into banking?

Customers are demanding a better digital experience: Banks losing customers who want seamless digital experiences

Why data science skills will be crucial for businesses to thrive: Analytics skills essential for business survival in ‘data decade’

The importance of IT infrastructure in developing AI capabilities: Big data LDN: Why you need to modernize your IT infrastructure for AI

Data analysis will be the focus in 2020: Why data will change the game again in 2020

Ant Financial looking to invest in the payments space: Ant Financial preps $1bn investment fund

New platform for independent advisors: Pascal Financial launches wealth management platform for advisors

High-net-worth topics

The wealthy want quality information from their advisor: What ultra high net worth clients want from wealth managers

The money habits of the rich: 5 things rich people do with their money

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

During a recession, people want help from advisors (MDRT): Clients want you to help them through a recession: MDRT survey

Where are the female portfolio managers? (Goldman Sachs): Investment management is still a boys’ club: Goldman

Canadians are looking to eliminate debt (Manulife): Canadians agree they have too much debt

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Monday morning briefing – November 25, 2019

Could charities suffer from higher taxes for the wealthy? OSC introduces new recommendations to reduce regulatory burden. Some important points to know from Congress’ PE hearings. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

The Canadian inflation rate was 1.9% in October: Canadian inflation holds steady at 1.9% in October, remains on target

Capturing your clients’ attention with a story: How storytelling bolsters financial plans & client relationships

Why alternative investments could benefit a portfolio in current market conditions: Fitting alternatives into a 60-40 portfolio

Global ETF assets continue to soar: Global ETF assets surpass $6T

A look at Morningstar’s sustainability ratings: Understanding Morningstar’s new sustainability ratings

Why private investments can help DC plans: DC plans need private investments, Neuberger Berman says

News and notes (U.S.)

Hedge funds experienced outflows in September: Hedge fund redemption trend extends to four months in September

Helping hedge funds with their cold-calling efforts: Match.com for hedge funds or low-rent telemarketing service? Cold-calling firm Murano Connect has many fans, but just as many detractors.

Hedge funds preparing for a trade deal: Hedge funds are buying stocks exposed to US-China trade on hopes for a deal

Louis Bacon to close hedge funds: Billionaire Louis Bacon is closing legendary hedge fund to clients

Some important points to know from Congress’ PE hearings: 4 key takeaways from Congress’ private equity hearing

Two Sigma raises US$1.2 billion for first PE fund: Two sigma is getting into private equity

A brokerage powerhouse could be in the works: Charles Schwab in talks to buy TD Ameritrade, create brokerage giant: report

Still some concern from SEC on non-transparent ETFs: Fresh concerns raised on novel ETF structure

News and notes (Canada)

Evolve launches new ETF: Evolve launches high interest savings account ETF

iA Clarington launches new segregated funds: iA Financial expands seg fund lineup

The Financial Planning Association of Canada was launched: New association aims to elevate financial planning

OSC introduces new recommendations to reduce regulatory burden: OSC says firms will save millions in compliance costs

Capital growth being driven by real estate: Outside housing, Canadian capital growth is near a 60-year low

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Fintech trends to watch for in 2020: Top fintech trends entrepreneurs must watch in 2020

Fintech needs principles-based regulation: Fintech regulation needs more principles, not more rules

The five trends you need to know for digital banking transformation: Top 5 digital banking transformation trends shaping 2020

A look at regtech’s impact on compliance: How regtech is transforming compliance

Making the most of customer analytics: How to maximise insight from your customer analytics

Teaching the ethics of AI: Scotiabank to train execs on AI ethics

PayPal purchases Honey Science Corporation: PayPal to acquire shopping and rewards platform Honey for $4B

Essential Portfolios lowers its minimum investment: TD Ameritrade lowers minimum for robo-advisor accounts

What’s in store for digital currencies: The high stakes of the coming digital currency war

Fidelity gets licence for its virtual currency business: Fidelity granted licence to operate virtual currency business in New York state

High-net-worth topics

A look at key-person insurance: How to protect your business from upheaval if the owner suddenly dies

Could charities suffer from higher taxes for the wealthy?: Tax the wealthy and their charities will suffer

The wealthy are looking for a secure location to store their precious metals: World’s rich are rattled and looking for old-fashioned security

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Millennials have a better understanding of fixed income’s role in a portfolio (BNY Mellon): Millennials understand fixed income better than do older investors: survey

Canadians’ concerned about the stock market, economy (IG Wealth Management): Canadians’ financial confidence dims: IG survey

Many Canadians are worried about outliving their retirement savings (Sun Life): 72% say retirement isn’t what they expected

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

Monday morning briefing – November 18, 2019

Private equity looking at the financial advisory industry. Government and companies must work together to combat cyber risks. Asset allocation among alternative investments is changing. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

U.S. inflation rate rose in October: U.S. consumer prices rise most in 7 months on higher gas prices

Economic growth in Japan stalled: Japan’s economic growth slumps to 1-year low in third quarter as trade war bites

The U.K. unemployment rate declined in September: U.K. unemployment falls while wages slow in September

VC funding had another strong quarter: Global VC funding remains strong in Q3

A look at the top research firms: The top research firm in the world is…

How to navigate through a market of lower expected returns: Navigating a slow growth market environment

Understanding the new economy: Understanding the 21st century economy

News and notes (U.S.)

A look at the hedge fund industry in October: State of the industry: October 2019

According to SS&C, hedge funds returned 1.15% in October: SS&C GlobeOp Hedge Fund Performance Index up 1.15 per cent in October

Private equity looking at the financial advisory industry: Private equity investors are zeroing in on financial advice business

JPMorgan invests in Limeglass: JPMorgan invests in financial research startup Limeglass

Mutual fund sales and performance over the past two weeks: Mutual funds scorecard: November 12 edition

News and notes (Canada)

iA Clarington goes fossil-fuel free in Inhance SRI funds: iA Clarington ensures certain funds are fossil-fuel free

A look at liquidity levels across Canadian funds: Currency & sector liquidity analysis report: Q3 2019

Lower mortgage rates helping housing affordability: Housing affordability improves thanks to lower rates, higher incomes

Looking for safety: The safest bet in Canada is also one of the hottest ETF trades

Taking a flexible approach to title reform: What’s next for title reform in Ontario

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Security a concern for digital-only banking: More consumers will leave banks if digital offerings don’t improve

Why banks and big tech partnerships may work: Big banks and big tech (not versus)

A chequing account from Google: Google to offer checking accounts in partnership with banks starting next year

Customer experience should be at the forefront to combat disruptors: How to thrive in financial services in the age of digital disruption

How to better help small businesses: Big changes ahead for small business banking

A look at possible trends in the financial services industry over the next 10 years: Financial services in the 2020s: From open banking to open finance

Government and companies must work together to combat cyber risks: Bank of Canada urges public-private co-operation on cybersecurity

The data curation challenge: The challenge of data curation

Bringing cryptocurrency payment services to Swiss businesses: Bitcoin Suisse and Worldline to offer crypto payments acceptance in Switzerland

The CME will offer bitcoin options in the new year: Bitcoin options coming to the CME

High-net-worth topics

The wealthy are moving to cash: Geopolitics clouding the outlook for wealthy investors, UBS finds

Wealthy investors making direct investments in private firms: Wealthy families using 600-year-old plan to disrupt PE

How advisors can build trust with the high-net-worth: How to get wealthy people to trust you

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Institutional investors have an eye on China (Invesco): 80% of institutional investors planning to raise allocations to China: survey

Asset allocation among alternative investments is changing (EY): Investors are taking money out of hedge funds and putting in private equity

Canadians need help managing investments in retirement (Mackenzie): Value of advice more important as Canadians near retirement: study

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

Monday morning briefing – November 11, 2019

U.S. PE funds’ capital raising reaches record high. Businesses looking to Canada for expansion. U.S. institutional investors are turning to liquid alternative ETFs. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

Canada’s unemployment rate was 5.5% in October: Canadian economy lost 1,800 jobs in October, unemployment rate steady

The BoE held rates steady at 0.75%: Sterling falls after Bank of England split on interest rate cut

Expecting weaker growth in Europe: Eurozone forecast for long period of weak economic growth

How to access private markets: Smart ways to access private capital markets

U.S. institutional investors are turning to liquid alternative ETFs: Use of liquid alternative ETFs on the rise among institutional investors: study

Why defined contribution plans can benefit from alternative investments: Fundamental reasons for adding alternatives to DC pension portfolios

A look at Morningstar’s new rating system: Morningstar rolls out new ratings system

News and notes (U.S.)

Hedge funds returned 0.4% in October, according to HFR: Hedge funds in positive territory in October, says HFR

How technology can help hedge funds manage their operating expenses: Technology can act as a growth enabler to help hedge funds cope with increased margin pressures

U.S. PE funds’ capital raising reaches record high: Private equity fundraising in the US hits all-time high

Private equity investment model shifting: The shifting nature of private equity

Fidelity launches new funds: Fidelity rolls out four thematic funds

The SEC is looking to make changes to its advertising rule: SEC issues plan to modernize RIA ad rules

News and notes (Canada)

iA announces fund and ETF launches: iA Clarington launches new fund, adds ETF versions of existing funds

CI acquires asset management firm: CI Financial acquires WisdomTree’s Canadian business

Tracking cannabis stocks: Pot indexes to launch this month

ETFs in Canada saw inflows of $3.5 billion in October: Canadian equities ETFs had a ‘stellar’ October

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Improving data security measures: 3 steps banks & credit unions should take as data privacy gets hotter

How active managers can benefit from machine learning: Can machine learning help active managers outperform passive peers?

How fintech will help the “underbanked”: The ‘underbanked’ is the next trillion-dollar opportunity in fintech

Looking at what’s in store for the fintech industry: The future of fintech

Employees must also accept digital transformation: Digital transformation will flop if you don’t also transform staff

Charles Schwab is looking to eliminate forms: Schwab’s plan to kill forms and expand integrations

Selling through messaging platforms: The convergence of messaging apps and payments

Canadian banks take interest in Mylo: Canadian banks invest in spare change app Mylo

What a single digital currency could mean for the finance industry: How worldwide digital currency adoption could change the finance sector

A look at Canadians’ awareness of bitcoin: Bitcoin awareness no guarantee of ownership, finds BOC

High-net-worth topics

The high-net-worth need to protect against debt too: Why ultra-high-net-worth clients need a financial cushion

The total wealth of billionaires fell in 2018: Billionaire wealth declines in 2018

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Expect weaker investment returns in the future (JP Morgan): Weak global growth ahead, J.P. Morgan says

Businesses looking to Canada for expansion (HSBC): Foreign businesses eyeing Canada for expansion: report

U.S. advisors are bullish on the industry (Schwab): Advisors are (mostly) upbeat about the future: Schwab

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

Monday morning briefing – November 4, 2019

VCs may benefit from investing in more women- and multicultural-led companies. Top 10 trends that will impact family offices. A look at how the digital economy is changing real estate. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

The Bank of Canada held its central interest rate at 1.75%: Bank of Canada holds rates, warns economy will be ‘tested’

The Fed lowered its central interest rate: Fed cuts rates by quarter point while hinting at a policy pause

The U.S. economy grew 1.9% in the third quarter: US GDP rose a better-than-expected 1.9% in the third quarter as consumers continued to spend

Is there an opportunity in alternative fixed income?: Alternative fixed income seen as market opportunity

Competition in the ETF space is fierce: Cutthroat competition has come in the ETF industry

A look at how the digital economy is changing real estate: How the digital economy is reshaping real estate

Global ETF assets rose 2.52% over the third quarter: Global ETF assets extend lead over hedge fund industry to USD2.54 trillion at the end of Q3 2019, says ETFGI

News and notes (U.S.)

It was a tough month for hedge funds, according to Eurekahedge: Hedge funds lag, lose clients in September despite lower fees

Newer hedge funds outperforming their more established counterparts: These hedge funds do better

CFOs’ pay at private companies growing: A look at CEO vs. CFO compensation at late-stage private companies

VCs may benefit from investing in more women- and multicultural-led companies: Morgan Stanley: VCs neglect women and minorities, and it’s hurting returns

Looking to simplify limited partnership agreements: Private equity contracts are expensive and complex. This group wants to change that.

Mutual fund sales and performance over the past two weeks: Mutual funds scorecard: October 29 edition

Why investing in a 401(k) is so important: This is the biggest retirement mistake Americans are afraid of

News and notes (Canada)

3iQ gets approval for Bitcoin investment fund: OSC approves Bitcoin investment fund

CIBC launches three fixed income pools: CIBC launches fixed income pools

TD introduces MyTD: TD announces AI-driven advice service

AIMA looks at alternative investment market in Canada: AIMA publishes handbook on Canada’s alternative investment landscape

ICE launches platform to improve standardization and efficiency in an ETF primary market: New platform aims to boost ETF growth

Canadian DB plans advanced 1.6% in the third quarter: Canadian DB plans post 1.6 per cent median return in third quarter: survey

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Combining humans with digital to help customers: Best customer experience in banking blends digital with human touch

How financial services companies can benefit from AI: Unleashing AI’s potential in financial services

Improving conversational AI: Overcoming the barriers to conversational AI

How deep learning can reach its potential: Deep learning is overtaking classic machine learning methods, study finds

FSRA joins the Global Financial Innovations Network: FSRA steps into global sandbox

Looking for a European digital currency: German banks calls for digital euro

Developing policy for crypto assets: IIROC launches crypto advisory group

The International Investment Funds Association (IIFA) releases Cybersecurity Program Basics: IFIC unveils updated cybersecurity guide

CI partners with d1g1t Inc.: CI Financial partners with fintech firm

High-net-worth topics

Top 10 trends that will impact family offices: Family office insights: 10 trends that will affect family offices in 2020

The wealthy are looking for safety in cash: Wealthiest investors are holding more cash says UBS

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

North American investor confidence fell in October (State Street): Geopolitical turmoil dents investor confidence, State Street says

Interest in responsible investing rising (RIA): Canadians want more support on responsible investing

Even high income earners are struggling financially (TD): Earning power doesn’t necessarily equate to better financial health, survey finds

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

Monday morning briefing – October 28, 2019

Will active managers become more activist? A look at volatility in the private markets. Interest in impact investing continues to rise. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

The ECB held its central interest rate steady: ECB holds rates at historic lows as Mario Draghi waves farewell to Frankfurt

Canadian retail sales dropped in August: Retail sales fell slightly in August, Statistics Canada reports

Why growth has outperformed value: The real reason value has been lagging growth

A look at what will impact markets over the next few decades: Aging population top global investment trend, institutional investors say

Interest in factor investing on the rise: Factor investing strategies becoming more popular for fixed income: survey

Will active managers become more activist?: A Wall Street revolution: Why active fund managers have ‘stopped yawning and started flexing their muscles’

Gold’s comeback: The story behind gold’s resurgence

News and notes (U.S.)

A look at the hedge fund industry in September: State of the industry: September 2019

Hedge funds have experienced net redemptions in 2019: Hedge fund industry sees 6th consecutive quarter of outflows

Charles Schwab launches the Schwab Alternative Investment Marketplace: Schwab launches alts marketplace for advisors

Jeffrey Vinik closes hedge fund: Billionaire investor Jeffrey Vinik closes hedge fund less than a year after its relaunch

A look at volatility in the private markets: KKR: Private markets are much more volatile than they appear

U.S. executives believe M&A activity will be better next year: US M&A remains resilient despite market fears

A look at ETF flows in 2019: Where the ETF money flowed in 2019

News and notes (Canada)

Picton Mahoney to acquire funds from Vertex One: Picton Mahoney gains five funds from Vertex One

 New ETF from Mackenzie: Mackenzie launches emerging markets bond ETF

Mutual funds were in favour in September: Mutual fund sales soared in September

A look at the possible financial impact from a Liberal minority government: How a Liberal minority government could help, or hit, Canadians’ wallets

Learn about the head of the Canada Infrastructure Bank: A profile of Janice Fukakusa, chair of the Canada Infrastructure Bank

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

How finance can benefit from AI: What can AI and big data do for finance?

Four principles to launch unique products: 4 crucial steps to transform banking products for a fintech world

Partnership formed to launch fintech research unit: Fintech research unit founded by AMF, Finance Montreal

Why improving the onboarding process is crucial: Research shows banks could lose $22.75bn to slow onboarding

Alberta Investment Management Corp. using AI to predict stock price movements: Institutional investors turning to AI, data science to improve processes, yield alpha

Using API to better your business: How can organizations take advantage of the API economy?

Cyberattack discovered, focused on institutional investors: Cyber attack hits prominent hedge fund, endowment, and foundation

Wealthscope launched to help investors look at total portfolio diversification: New tool to help those accumulating and decumulating retirement assets

WealthBar acquires Snap Projections: WealthBar deepens financial-planning commitment with acquisition

Is there a place for blockchain in fintech?: Blockchain: Is it the future of fintech?

High-net-worth topics

The high-net-worth in the U.K. are concerned about the political landscape: Politics is more worrying than Brexit for Britain’s wealthy

Wealthy executives have specific needs from a financial advisor: What high-earning executives need, and aren’t getting, from advisors

 A look at the world’s ultrawealthy: Who are the ultrawealthy? These charts will give you an idea

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Interest in impact investing continues to rise (American Century): US, UK millennials embrace impact, ESG investing: Survey

Lacking knowledge of fixed income securities (BNY Mellon): Survey reveals severe lack of awareness on fixed income

Canada falling behind in dealing with climate risk (FTSE Russell): Canada’s climate readiness gets a thumb-down

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

Monday morning briefing – October 21, 2019

Digital-only banks succeeding through a robust customer experience. ESG adoption by institutional investors may be slowing. Venture capital mega-deals continue to grow. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

Canada’s inflation rate was 1.9% in September: Canadian inflation holds steady at 1.9%, core measures inch up

China’s economic growth slowed in the third quarter: China says its economy grew 6% in the third quarter, slower than expected

Retail sales in the U.S. declined: U.S. retail sales dip 0.3% in September

The end of the 60/40 portfolio?: Bank of America says 60-40 portfolios are dead. They’re right

Show a bit of pessimism towards a trade deal: Morgan Stanley tells stock bulls not to kid themselves on trade

The IMF predicts weaker economic growth in 2019: Global conflicts could lead to weakest growth since 2008: IMF

News and notes (U.S.)

The Eurekahedge Hedge Fund Index declined 0.30% in September: Hedge funds down 0.30 per cent in September

A look at hedge funds’ favourite research firms: The research hedge funds want to pay for

Why private markets will continue to flourish: The company of the future is private

How debt financing companies are attracting businesses: How debt financing is adapting to compete with equity financing

VC mega-deals continue to grow: 2019 on pace for another $100B invested as VC exit value tops $200B for the first time [datagraphic]

A look at how much the U.S. green economy is worth: America’s ‘green economy’ is now worth $1.3 trillion

Mutual fund sales and performance over the past two weeks: Mutual funds scorecard: October 15 edition

News and notes (Canada)

Waypoint launches liquid alternatives fund: Liquid alternatives: The Waypoint All Weather Liquid Alternative Mutual Fund

Desjardins launches ETF portfolios: Desjardins adds ETF portfolios to its roster

National Bank launches the NBI Unconstrained Fixed Income ETF: National Bank launches fixed-income ETF

Canaccord Genuity expands into Australia: Canaccord Genuity to acquire Australian firm for $23.3 million

Canadian M&A activity down in the third quarter: Mergers and acquisitions slow in third quarter: report

Michael Lee-Chin discusses the challenges impacting advisors: Adapt or become irrelevant, Lee-Chin warns advisors

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Using technology to focus on consumer engagement: Digitizing banking is all about engagement and CX, not ‘tech’

Digital-only banks succeeding through a robust customer experience: Look to your customers for the key to banking success

Searching for innovative new technology: Where do incumbents look for game-changing innovation?

Canadians’ use of fintech on the rise: More Canadians using fintech, in spite of privacy concerns

The majority of U.K. financial institutions are using machine learning technology: Machine learning advancing in financial sector – Bank of England

Emerging challenger banks can be found all around the globe: Some challengers really are challenging … but not where you’re looking

Appealing to wealthier millennials: How upscale millennials’ money views impact their banking habits

How to keep up with regulatory change: How to approach modern regulatory change management in financial services

NatWest piloting a fingerprint credit card: Technology-based banking products launched

A look at what technologies are impacting advisors most: 10 female leaders share top tech trends that’ll change your practice

High-net-worth topics

Millennials’ wealth is expected to grow: There are more than 600,000 millennial millionaires in the US, according to report

What a wealth tax could mean for the high-net-worth: Explaining a wealth tax to clients

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Preparing portfolios for an economic slowdown (Aviva): Proceed with caution on asset allocation: report

ESG adoption by institutional investors may be slowing (RBC): Survey finds ESG adoption tapering off among institutional investors

There may not be a global recession until 2021 (HSBC): Global recession unlikely until 2021: HSBC

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

Tuesday afternoon briefing – October 15, 2019

Hedge funds are moving away from oil. More companies raising private money. U.S. venture capital slowed in the third quarter. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

U.S. inflation rate steady in September: US consumer prices were unchanged in September, the weakest reading since January

The Canadian unemployment rate fell in September: Canada’s job market produces another surprise gain in September 

Progress was made on a U.S.-China trade deal: U.S., China reach partial trade deal, boosting market back near-record highs

The Fed will buy short-term T-bills: Fed to buy Treasury bills in effort to control lending rates

Interest in money markets rising: Investors are flocking to money markets at the highest rate since the financial crisis

A look at EBITDA for private companies: Why EBITDA is just BS

More companies raising private money: The changing landscape of public and private equity investing

New indexes to track megatrends: MSCI launches megatrends indexes

News and notes (U.S.)

Hedge fund industry returns declined 0.11% in September: Hedge funds see two consecutive months of negative returns, says eVestment

Hedge funds moving away from oil: Column: Hedge funds turn bearish on oil as economy slows

Add-ons a growing portion of U.S. PE buyouts: This year could set another record for US PE add-on activity 

Retirement portfolios can benefit from private equity: Private equity a must for retirement portfolios, Panel Argues

A new asset class?: The hot new alternative investment: Lego?

Stephen Schwarzman comments on job loss study: Stephen Schwarzman on the key ‘flaw’ in the private equity job loss study

U.S. venture capital slowed in the third quarter: Venture Capital – Unicorn blood on the street

Fidelity offers free trading: Fidelity joins price war with zero commissions   

News and notes (Canada)

The impact of fund-of-funds on the ETF industry: How fund-of-funds could be puffing up Canada’s ETF industry

VC investment in Canada continues to rise: Canadian VC investment hits record in Q3

Advisors satisfied with their brokerages: Where the industry is succeeding, and falling short

A look back at Canada’s first year of legalized marijuana: The good, the bad and the ugly from Canada’s first year of legal pot

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

A look at what’s ahead for fintech: What’s next for fintech growth?

Customers are concerned about using voice-assisted technology for bank transactions: Insurers and banks face battle to overcome security fears over voice-assisted tech

Consolidation in fintech expected to continue: More fintech consolidation expected after Broadridge’s Fi360 purchase

How to improve onboarding: Two ways to quickly elevate your financial institution’s onboarding

Companies start abandoning the Libra project: Facebook’s Libra loses Mastercard, Visa in cascade of exits

An in-depth look at the term “challenger”: What does the term ‘challenger’ really mean?

Digital asset firms must comply with AML rules: Digital assets face anti-money laundering rules too

Another bitcoin ETF rejection: SEC rejects Bitwise Bitcoin ETF

RBC looking to help address climate change: RBC backs AI-based climate change research  

High-net-worth topics

The high-net-worth are looking to protect their wealth: Long-term planning can help allay Canadian investors’ concerns for the future               

A look at how the high-net-worth are investing: Tiger 21 Founder addresses macroeconomic concerns for high-net-worth investors on CNBC Europe 

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Many investors see a recession ahead for the U.S. economy (E-Trade): Bearish investors say US economy has peaked: E-Trade survey

Canadians are looking for retirement help (HOOPP): 80% of Canadians would take pension over salary hike: Poll

Those working with an advisor feel more prepared for a recession (CFP): Advisors instill confidence in face of recession

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

Monday morning briefing – October 7, 2019

A look at hedge funds’ approaches to Brexit. The benefits and challenges of moving to the cloud. How AI will change the job market. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

The U.S. unemployment rate hit a 50-year low: September unemployment rate falls to 3.5%, a 50-year low, as payrolls rise by 136,000

The Canadian economy was flat in July: StatsCan says economy flat in July as oil and gas sector down

More tariffs placed on Europe: U.S. to slap tariffs on European planes, whiskey after WTO ruling

How markets could be affected by an impeachment: What impeachment could mean for U.S. markets

Why now could be the time for alternatives: Is the tide turning for alternatives?

The benefits of investing in farmland: A look at the diversification benefits of farmland investing for pension funds

News and notes (U.S.)

Hedge fund launches rose in the second quarter: Number of new hedge fund launches up for second consecutive quarter

A look at hedge funds’ approaches to BrexitHow the hedge funds are really playing Brexit

Interest in private assets is high and will continue to grow: The unstoppable allure of private assets

A look at the PE middle market during the second quarter: 7 charts illustrating the US PE middle market in 2Q

Vanguard looking to enter the currency trading market: Vanguard to challenge banks’ grip on $6 trillion currency market

Mutual fund sales and performance over the past two weeks: Mutual funds scorecard: October 1 edition

The SEC is looking to modernize ETF regulations: The SEC says it’s making ETFs more accessible – here’s what that could mean for investors

More firms move to commission-free trading: TD Ameritrade announces zero commissions in tit-for-tat move

News and notes (Canada)

Purpose to incorporate ESG across all strategies: Purpose announces full ESG integration

National Bank launches green bond: National Bank issues sustainability bond

Canadian pension solvency fell to 98.6% in the third quarter: Canadian DB pension solvency declined in third quarter: surveys

CSA looking to improve its client-focused reforms: CSA introduces revised version of client-focused reforms

Responsible investing important to Canadian institutional investors: Canadian institutional investment pros say RI is important

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

A look at some fintech trends you may not already know about: Three overlooked trends in fintech

How to build a personalized experience: Secrets to building one-to-one digital experiences

How AI will change the job market: Artificial intelligence driving the next generation of jobs in the UK

Helping companies trade globally: Banks join forces on digital platform to help firms trade globally

Improving the branch experience: Interactive tech drives bank’s new experiential branch

The benefits and challenges of moving to the cloud: Interview with Bloomberg’s CIO: What’s driving financial services to the cloud?

A look at some examples of industry convergence: Industry convergence: Going beyond business boundaries

Robinhood adding well-known content to its app: Stock trading app Robinhood revamps its newsfeed with the Wall Street Journal and ad-free videos

The cost of fighting climate change: Americans fear climate change and the cost of fighting it

High-net-worth topics

Initiating the wealth transfer discussion between the high-net-worth and their children: How a UBS exec gets families to open up about wealth transfer

Goldman looking to attract the high-net-worth in Europe: Goldman is taking another stab at serving Europe’s rich

High-net-worth millennials believe they may need to work past retirement age: Survey: Many affluent millennials don’t think they can retire by 65

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Only 4% of CEO positions are held by women (CSA): Women gain share of board seats but not executive roles

Many Americans are concerned about their finances (NAPFA): Americans in need of some good financial advice: survey

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

Monday morning briefing – September 30, 2019

People want more ESG transparency by companies. Fintech firms facing challenges finding good talent. The high-net-worth are raising cash levels. Can a passive player enter the PE space? And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

U.S. GDP growth confirmed at 2.0%: Second-quarter U.S. GDP left at 2%, slower economic growth seen persisting

Signs may point to an economic slowdown: Is the end of economic expansion near?

People want more ESG transparency by companies: Pressure piling on for companies to provide ESG disclosure

The trade war is the biggest threat to global economic growth: Lagarde says trade main global growth risk, recession unlikely

Why asset managers need to consider alternative investments: Asset managers must adapt to democratization of alternatives

A look at how much should be allocated to alternative investments: Here’s how much financial advisors should invest in alternatives to make a difference

Is there a future for non-transparent ETFs?: Non-transparent ETFs … a glimpse into the future?

News and notes (U.S.)

Global hedge funds experienced redemptions in August: Investors have pulled $63 billion from hedge funds this year – but these strategies are raking in cash

Many hedge funds are negotiating their management fees: Almost 39 per cent of hedge fund managers willing to negotiate management fees, says report

Can a passive player enter the PE space?Why private equity is ripe for Vanguard-style disruption

The PE space will continue to expand: Research suggests there’s no stopping the private-equity train

Transitioning from Washington to PE: Politicians continue push into PE

Participation rate in retirement plans on the rise: Retirement Plan Sponsors report record 83% participation rate

Morningstar concerned about public availability of private investments in retirement plans: Don’t relax private investment regs for retirement funds: Morningstar

News and notes (Canada)

Fidelity launches five fixed income ETFs: Fidelity rolls out five fixed income ETFs on TSX

Evolve launches the Evolve Dividend Preferred Share Index ETF: Evolve launches preferred share ETF

Wealthsimple acquires SimpleTax: Wealthsimple expands into tax software with SimpleTax acquisition

What title regulation will mean for Ontario financial advisors: What to expect as title regulation extends to Ontario

Mutual fund and ETF assets rose in August: ETF sales eclipse mutual funds in August, IFIC reports

Canadian asset managers must innovate in a challenging environment: Asset managers must innovate: KPMG

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Visa launches Visa Partner, looking to help fintech firms: Visa opens resource portal for fintechs

Banks must blend the old with the new to thrive: Where banking-fintech partnerships fall short

Developing products your consumers want most: How to build banking products consumers will love

Regtech spending to increase substantially in next five years: Regtech spending to reach $127 billion by 2024, as AI drives cost savings

HSBC introduces system to detect financial crimes: HSBC introduces industry leading financial crime detection systems

Combatting deepfakes: Can AI and blockchain be used in fight against deepfake?

Fintech firms facing challenges finding good talent: UK fintech sector faces talent shortfall

Increasing the use of blockchain: Can blockchain become more accessible?

High-net-worth topics

The top 1% in Canada saw their effective tax rates decline: Tax rates down, incomes up for the 1%

The high-net-worth are raising cash levels: Wealthy families are preparing for a downturn

The high-net-worth should have a plan to handle requests for money: How wealthy people handle requests to give away their money

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Investors in mutual funds and ETFs are confident in these products (IFIC): IFIC survey shows strong satisfaction with advisors, fund products

Supersavers are willing to make sacrifices to save more (Principal): These 5 money habits put young workers on track for retirement

Investors interested in sustainable investing, but don’t do it (Schroder): Investors talk the talk, don’t walk the walk, on sustainability

Why people engage with a financial advisor (Merrill Lynch): Top 5 reasons clients turn to a financial advisor: Merrill

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

Monday morning briefing – September 23, 2019

A bitcoin yield fund for the high-net-worth. Private equity and venture capital outperforming public equities. Why international co-operation is needed to combat cybercrime. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

The Fed reduced its central interest rate: Fed lowers interest rate by a quarter-point, and is open to the idea of more easing

Canadian inflation rate was 1.9% in August: Canadian inflation slows to 1.9% on lower gas, vegetable prices

The BoE held its Bank Rate steady at 0.75%: Bank of England holds rates, warns another Brexit delay could hurt economic growth

The BoJ kept its key interest rate at -0.10%: BOJ keeps policy steady, signals chance of easing in October

A look at how liquidity affects an ETF’s trading costs: Why liquidity matters in ETF cost minimization

Does the value of benchmark data justify the cost?: Fund managers seek more insight from benchmark data

News and notes (U.S.)

Hedge fund net exposure at highest level since 2018: Goldman: Hedge fund exposure to stock market at 15-month high

A conversation with Josh Harris on private marketsApollo’s Josh Harris talks private markets at delivering alpha

PE and VC outperforming public equities: Private equity outperforms and captures institutional flows

Private equity net cash flow was over US$150 billion in 2018: Eight years in the black for private equity cash flows

Vanguard to launch Digital Advisor: Vanguard preparing to offer digital-only robo-advisor

Rockefeller Capital eyes Silicon Valley: Rockefeller Capital buys wealth firm for Silicon Valley rich

The Fed took action in money markets for first time in a decade: Fed intervenes in money markets for first time in 10 years

 Looking for more customized target-date funds: Interest rising in active/passive hybrid strategies for TDFs

Mutual fund sales and performance over the past two weeks: Mutual funds scorecard: September 17 edition

News and notes (Canada)

Horizons launches the Horizons Growth TRI ETF Portfolio: Horizons ETFs expands lineup of portfolio ETFs

CI Investments launches ESG funds: CI introduces debut ESG funds

Combining mutual funds and ETFs could be beneficial: Mutual funds and ETFs in harmony

Canada ranks “below average” in fund costs, according to Morningstar: Canada rates poorly in Morningstar survey of mutual fund costs

Foreign investors moving out of Canadian securities: Foreign investors continue to divest Canadian securities

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Five fintech trends to watch in 2020: Five trends shaping fintech into 2020

How to navigate through customers’ fear of open banking: Open banking scares customers, but they want what APIs can deliver

A look at Canadians’ comfort with AI: How Canadians feel about AI in financial services

We’re in the early innings of AI’s impact on the financial services industry: The beginning of the road for AI in finance, the best is yet to come

Building a branch as an advice centre: Transforming branches into advice centers: The long road ahead

How technology is impacting capital markets: Buyers’ brief: Fintech drives capital markets

Why international co-operation is needed to combat cybercrime: Cyber-crime best tackled by international co-operation

Arab Bank launches custody and brokerage services for digital assets: Leading Swiss private bank launches full suite of digital asset services

High-net-worth topics

Family offices incorporating ESG principles: Wealthy families pour fortunes into $31 trillion ESG opportunity

A bitcoin yield fund for the high-net-worth: Wealth manager launches world-first bitcoin yield fund

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

38% of fund managers expect a recession over the next year (Bank of America Merrill Lynch): Recession fears among fund managers rise to highest level in a decade

Immigration wage gap impacting Canada’s economy (RBC): Immigrant wage gap costing Canada $50 billion a year in GDP: RBC study

Millennials are starting to save early (E*Trade): Young investors are doin’ it for the ‘Gram

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

Monday morning briefing – September 16, 2019

Is there a major flaw with internal rate of return? The increasing use of alternative data. The top traits exhibited by leading advisors. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

The U.S. inflation rate fell to 1.7% in August: Cheaper gas puts a cap on consumer prices in August, but inflation appears to be rising, CPI shows

The ECB lowered its central interest rate to -0.50%: ECB cuts key rate for first time since 2016 as recession fears grow

OPEC should be closely monitoring demand, along with supply: Where does OPEC+ go from here?

Could there be changes to the U.S. capital gains tax?: Trump to revisit capital gains tax cut in White House Meeting

Will value investing bounce back?: Value investing’s heady days aren’t coming back, study says

Fixed income continues to attract significant ETF flows: Global ETF flows continue to favour fixed income in August: ETFGI

News and notes (U.S.)

A look at the hedge fund industry in AugustState of the industry – August, 2019

The Eurekahedge Hedge Fund Index rose 0.31% in August: Hedge fund managers up 0.31 per cent in August

The increasing use of alternative data: Hedge funds plan to pour more money into alternative data

PE drawdown rates are still slow: Despite an active PE industry, drawdown rates have remained slow since 2012

Dry powder continues to rise: Alternative investment managers still building up dry powder

Is there a major flaw with internal rate of return?: The faulty metric at the center of private equity’s value proposition

Bitcoin ETFs could still be a bit away: SEC’s Clayton still troubled by potential manipulation of bitcoin prices

Directors and senior officers are selling shares: Insiders at US firms are selling shares at fastest pace since 2007

News and notes (Canada)

RBC launches five U.S. single-factor ETFs: RBC iShares expands lineup of factor ETFs

Stone Asset Management launches PTF: Stone Asset Management announces platform-traded fund

Why family businesses are important for the Canadian economy: Canada’s economy dependent on family businesses: report

Canadian pension assets grew 5% in the first quarter: Pension assets surged in Q1, StatsCan says

The Canada Pension Plan is opening an office in San Francisco: CPPIB opening San Francisco office, hiring head of VC funds

Canada’s first Pay Equity Commissioner announced: Canada now has a federal pay equity commissioner

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

Why banks should embrace and partner with fintech: Fintech and banks: collaboration or competition?

Using AI to fuel deposit growth: How banks and credit unions can grow deposits with AI

AI should complement the human process: Where the AI rubber hits the banking road 

The need to enable open banking in Canada: Feds must act on open banking, senators say

How banks can attract Millennials: What millennials want from banks & credit unions

Small investment firms have cybersecurity deficiencies: Small firms less prepared for cyber risks: report

Morningstar launches Goal Bridge: Morningstar launches new goal-based advisor software

JPMorgan Chase helping small businesses with cash flow: JPMorgan Chase introduces same-day deposits for merchants

Issuing bonds through blockchain: Santander launches the first end-to-end blockchain bond

High-net-worth topics

The high-net-worth should stay invested in U.S. equities, according to Goldman: Goldman manager tells rich clients to put American stocks first

Canadian high-net-worth are focused on preserving their wealth: Canada’s wealthiest shifting focus toward future-proofing

TD launches new alternative fund for high-net-worth clients: TD Asset Management adds alternative fund

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

60% of investors believe board diversity is important (ISS): Most investors support climate disclosure, board diversity, ISS finds

Expect slower growth for Canadians’ wealth (Investor Economics): Canadians’ wealth declines for first time since 2008

The top traits exhibited by leading advisors (Nationwide): 4 things successful advisors do differently: Nationwide

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

Monday morning briefing – September 9, 2019

Helping smaller clients with their financial planning needs. Private equity firms are taking an interest in physician practices. Four phases of a successful digital transformation. It’s time to listen to the lesser known managers. And much more in this week’s briefing.

Economic/industry news

The BoC held its central interest rate steady at 1.75%: Bank of Canada balks at joining global rate-cutting trend

The Canadian unemployment rate was unchanged at 5.7% in August: Canada sees jobs surge in August with 81K new positions

The U.S. unemployment rate was 3.7% in August: U.S. creates just 130,000 news jobs in August, keeping Fed on track to cut rates

Manufacturing states suffering from trade uncertainty: Trump’s trade war inflicts pain on manufacturing states

What happens if the global consumer stops spending?: Trade-war damage piles weight of global economy onto consumers

Assets under management fell for the world’s largest pension funds in 2018: World’s largest pension funds’ AUM decreased in 2018

Fund costs will impact Morningstar’s analyst ratings: How Morningstar’s new ratings reality will affect funds, ETFs

BlackRock’s outlook for the Canadian economy in the fourth quarter: Outlook for final quarter of 2019

News and notes (U.S.)

Time to listen to the lesser known managers: With Sohn Conference bets, pay attention to the no-name managers

PE firms are taking an interest in physician practices: Why are PE firms hot for physician practices?

How the biggest VCs are investing: Breaking down early- and late-stage deals for the top 20 US VC investors (datagraphic)

Why 401(k) sponsors must understand mutual fund fee structures: Fiduciary responsibility and mutual fund fees

ACI to launch five active ETFs: American Century to launch five active equity ETFs under new Avantis banner

Investing in an NBA team: NBA considers vehicle to bring new investors to soaring team values

Mutual fund sales and performance over the past two weeks: Mutual funds scorecard: September 3 edition

News and notes (Canada)

Dynamic launches the Dynamic Credit Absolute Return II Fund: Dynamic Funds launches fourth liquid alternative offering

Waratah launches the Waratah Alternative Equity Income Fund: Waratah Capital launches liquid alternative mutual fund

FP Portfolios launches new ETF: Firm launches ETF alternative to structured products

Canadian ETF assets rose to $186 billion in August: Canadian ETF inflows hit $2.7B in August

Banking leaders are set to adapt to the changing financial landscape: Big bank CEOs talk lower rates, living in ‘unprecedented times’

First-time homebuyers believe new incentive plan may be helpful: First-time homebuyers optimistic about new government incentive: poll

On the pulse – New frontiers in fintech

A look at how fintech is changing the financial services industry: 5 ways fintech is reshaping the financial services industry

Three best practices to help banks become leaders in personalization: How banks and credit unions can take the lead in personalization

Four phases of a successful digital transformation: We just haven’t got a clue what to do!

How AI can help back-office functions: The future of finance is powered by artificial intelligence

Understanding the ethics of AI: Filtering the ethics of AI

A look at five industries being transformed by AI: AI predictions: how AI is transforming five key industries

Helping smaller clients with their financial planning needs: Bringing financial planning to the masses

Plans for a crypto fund-of-funds for institutional investors: Hedge fund manager plans $1bn crypto fund

High-net-worth topics

The high-net-worth are looking for more than just strong investment performance: For HNW clients, digital convenience is no substitute for a personal connection

Managing the high-net-worth’s digital wealth: What you need to know about managing clients’ digital wealth

Polls & surveys – What financials are saying

Canadian productivity hurt by financial stress (Canadian Payroll Association): 43% of Canadians say financial stress is hurting work productivity: Study

Institutional investors not yet fully adopting ESG (CoreData): Institutional investors yet to fully embrace ESG, says new research

Client expectations are the top challenge for wealth and asset management firms (RBC): Client demands overtake regulation as the top challenge for firms

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