Your investing questions, our clear answers.

Our response:

While we are not able to provide advice, we do try to provide general information to help. There are many reasons an investor may choose to work with a financial advisor, for example:

1. You’re not sure how to manage your finances to investments
2. You don’t have time to manage your investments
3. You’re not interested in managing your investments

While you may save commissions using do-it-yourself investing, a financial advisor can help you select a portfolio that is suitable for you and that fits into your overall financial goals. Advisors with financial planning expertise may also be able to help you manage your day-to-day spending and saving, and some advisors may also be able to help you make decisions about insurance coverage, tax planning and estate planning. Learn more about working with an advisor in this Canadian Securities Administrators publication.

For investors who are comfortable learning about different investment products and strategies, and have considered their risk tolerance, do-it-yourself investing may be a good option, or a low cost option such as using an online investment advisor. Consider all options before making a decision, and make sure any financial advisor or online investment advisor you work with is registered in your province.