CFA Montréal survey highlights concern of advisors amid geopolitical unrest
The world could be heading for a recession according to three quarters of financial advisors polled by CFA Montréal.
As the first CFA local society established outside the US celebrates its 75th anniversary, its members are facing major challenges in navigating an economy about to burdened by tariffs with 84% of respondents expressing concern on how this may impact the investment industry including around one third who are very concerned.
The poll participants believe that the US, China, and the Middle East will dominate geopolitical pressure on the global economy and are preparing to adjust portfolios to mitigate the risk. Six in ten believe the Canadian dollar is likely to be devalued by the end of 2025 and over a one-year horizon, 27% believe that the bond and credit markets will face significant challenges.
How these advisors respond to the threats differs by generation. Although overall, 28% plan to increase their cash holdings and 24% will turn to safe-haven assets such as gold or government bonds, older respondents are more likely to opt for havens, while younger advisors are more likely to turn to emerging markets (39% of all age groups plan to diversify portfolios this way).
"The survey results highlight the importance of our members adapting their practices in response to evolving economic realities and embracing societal shifts such as sustainable finance and technological advancements like AI,” said Sandy Poiré, CFA, President of CFA Montréal.
The survey also revealed that 68% of respondents believe that financial education for the public is essential to improve their engagement and understanding of financial products.
The organization has been highlighting its achievements over its 75 years, such as Margaret E. Cameron, a member of CFA Montréal, who was among the first six women in the world to obtain the prestigious CFA designation in 1963.
"The journey of our profession over the past 75 years is truly inspiring, motivating us to embrace the future with ambition," said Jo-Ann Hajdamacha, executive director of CFA Montréal.
