The Rotor (May 2, 2025) (May 01, 2025)

Last week's meeting - Tuesday, April 29

Meeting highlights included an interview of one of our newest members, William Law - of Willis Towers Watson, conducted by Rotarian Mindy Tulsi-Ingram.

William was introduced to the club by Franz G. & Sean C. and is excited to be part of the group. He enjoys the warmth of his fellow members and the wealth of knowledge and intellect in the room.

We also inducted our newest member, Sevda Yurdaer, of Bauer Aluminium

The induction marks the beginning of a meaningful journey of service, fellowship, and community impact. We look forward to the fresh perspectives and enthusiasm Sevda brings to the Club.

Our speaker on Tuesday, April 29th was Alison Parry, advisor with RBC Phillips, Hager North.

Alison has played a significant role in supporting the Rotary Club of Vancouver through her expertise in wealth management. As a Senior Investment Counsellor at RBC Phillips, Hager & North Investment Counsel, she has served as the lead advisor for the Rotary Club of Vancouver Foundation and The Rotary Hearing Foundation for over 15 years.

In this capacity, she has provided strategic financial guidance, contributing to the growth and sustainability of both foundations. Alison was invited as a guest speaker at our Club to share insights into the development of the foundations and to address questions from club members.

Beyond her involvement with the Rotary Club, Alison is also an active member of the Investment Committee at the West Vancouver Foundation, further demonstrating her commitment to community service and financial stewardship.

Presentation Summary:

1. Objectives of the Foundations

Both foundations share similar investment goals:
- Preserve capital against inflation.
- Generate stable income.
- Maintain low risk tolerance (VRCF allows up to 10% fluctuation annually; RHF allows 5%).
- Grow the RCoV Foundation to $10,000,000 by 2034

2. Portfolio Review (as of March 31 and April 21, 2025)

Detailed breakdowns of each foundation's asset mix and performance over time.
Notes on returns before and after July 1, 2013, adjusted for management fees.

3. ESG and Responsible Investing

Integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors helps reduce risk and enhance returns.
Emphasizes engagement over divestment.
RBC's commitments include:
- UN Principles of Responsible Investment
- Canadian Coalition for Good Governance
- 30% Club Investor Group

4. Economic Review and Outlook

Analysis of:
- Global trade wars and tariff impacts.
- Sticky inflation trends.
- Central bank rate cuts (Canada vs. U.S. strategies).
- Canadian political landscape ahead of upcoming elections.
- Long-term macroeconomic themes (patriotism, nationalism, growth outlook).

We extend our sincere thanks to Alison Parry for her time and insightful presentation and we look forward to continuing our partnership.

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

Presentation Summary: