The hidden costs
of bad advice

Feeling uncertain about your financial situation? Here are key questions to ask yourself

April 8, 2025 • Advertorial

Poor financial guidance can result in significant setbacks, such as diminished savings due to unsuitable investments, unnecessary fees that accumulate over time, and strategies that focus too much on short-term gains rather than long-term stability.

It can also create distrust toward financial institutions, professional advice, and even your ability to plan effectively. Beyond financial losses, the impact includes stress, missed opportunities, and lingering uncertainty about the choices made.

It’s important to take a step back and evaluate whether your current advisor is meeting your needs and helping you achieve your financial goals. Here are some key questions to consider:

Are my financial goals being addressed?

Consider whether your advisor understands your short- and long-term objectives, such as saving for retirement, buying a home, or building wealth. Is your investment strategy aligned with these goals? If your goals have changed, has your advisor adjusted the plan accordingly?

Am I getting value for the fees I’m paying?

Review the fees you’re paying for advisory services, fund management, and other costs. Are these fees reasonable given the service, performance, and advice you’re receiving? Transparency around fees is essential.

Is my portfolio properly diversified?

A diversified portfolio helps manage risk and smooth out returns over time. Does your portfolio include a mix of asset classes, sectors, and regions? Are you overly concentrated in one area? Regular reviews and rebalancing are critical to staying on track.

How transparent is my advisor?

Your advisor should clearly explain their investment philosophy, the reasoning behind their recommendations, and how they measure success. It’s also important to understand how they’re compensated and whether there are any potential conflicts of interest.

Do I trust my advisor’s expertise?

Consider their qualifications, experience, and ability to navigate complex financial situations. Are they staying up to date with market trends, tax changes, and other developments that could impact your finances?

Is my advisor proactive in addressing my concerns?

A good advisor doesn’t just respond to questions—they anticipate issues that could affect your financial health, such as tax implications or life changes like retirement or a major purchase. Are they keeping you informed and ahead of potential challenges?

How does my advisor handle risk management?

Risk tolerance varies from person to person, so it’s important that your advisor understands yours and manages your investments accordingly. Are they helping you strike the right balance between risk and return?

Am I comfortable with the relationship?

Trust and communication are the foundation of any successful advisory relationship. Do you feel confident in their advice and comfortable discussing your concerns with them?

Why These Questions Matter

Reflecting on these questions will help you assess whether your current advisor is truly suited to your needs. If you identify gaps in their service, such as inadequate communication, insufficient expertise, or strategies that don’t align with your goals, it may be time to have a candid conversation with them or consider alternative options.

For instance, you could take advantage of a complimentary portfolio review with us to explore better-suited solutions. Schedule your initial appointment today by calling 514-788-3911 # 226, or provide us with your contact information, and we will promptly call you back to arrange a convenient time.

Your financial future depends on having the right guidance and support. Don’t hesitate to ask tough questions—it’s your money, after all.

CEA Wealth Management - logo

Financial Security Advisor
Group Insurance and Group Annuity Plans Advisor
Mutual Funds offered through Investia Financial Services Inc.

1240 Beaumont #140, Mont-Royal QC H3P 3E5
T. 514.788.3911 ext. 226 | F. 514.788.3918
www.ceawealth.com
CEA on Linkedin

The particulars contained herein were obtained from sources believed to be reliable but may be incomplete. The opinions expressed in this advertorial have not been approved by and are not those of Investia Financial Services Inc. The advertorial is not deemed to be used as a solicitation in a jurisdiction where this Investia representative is not registered.