Informed investing: The Three Knows

No one should be as concerned about your investments as you. Start by getting to know yourself in terms your investment goals, risk tolerance, and financial capability. If you have an advisor, be sure you’re making the most of that relationship. If not, take the time to make a wise and informed decision about the advisor you choose. When it comes to investing, you need know yourself, your advisor, and your investment. 

When it comes to investing, it’s all about understanding your current financial situation, your goals, and your risk tolerance, and using that knowledge to help you properly plan for your future. You need to decide what you want to accomplish with your money and when. Everyone’s risk profile is different. It's important to use what you know about yourself to help decide which investments are suitable for you. 

You should know that investment advisors in British Columbia who are in the business of 

buying and selling securities must be registered by the BC Securities Commission and must work for a firm that is also registered. Once registered, they are subject to rules and regulations designed to protect investors. 

Your advisor has specific obligations to you as a client and they must deal with you fairly, honestly, and in good faith. The advisor you choose will work for you, not the other way around. Choose an advisor who meets your needs & will answer your questions. Learn to do a background check on our website. 

If you are considering investing in a private company you should know that people who sell these investments may be eligible for an exemption from the registration requirement and therefore might not be registered. 

Be active in monitoring your investments and the market even after you have chosen your investments. The market and your life circumstances will inevitably change. To keep up with these changes you need to monitor and make changes to your portfolio over time. 

You also need to know things like: 

 What direct and indirect fees you are paying for your investment, and/or for advice? Remember fees are a fact of investing life. 

 How easy it is to sell your investment? In some cases, your ability to sell an investment may be restricted by law or by the terms of the contract.