SMJ Wealth

06/09/2026

The Value of Financial Advice: Why Some Investors Build More Wealth Than Others

Every day, Canadians are bombarded with messages telling them that investing is easy.
"Just buy an ETF."
"Use a robo-advisor."
"Watch a few YouTube videos."
"Do it yourself and save the fees."

At first glance, it sounds logical. After all, information is available everywhere, and opening an investment account takes only a few minutes. But if investing were simply about access to information, everyone would be financially successful. The reality is that building wealth is rarely an information problem. More often, it's a behavior problem. And that's where professional financial advice can make a significant difference.

What the Research Says

One of the most widely cited Canadian studies on financial advice was conducted by economists Claude Montmarquette and Nathalie Viennot-Briot. After analyzing thousands of Canadian households and adjusting for differences such as age, income, education, and financial knowledge, the researchers found something remarkable:

**Investors who worked with a financial advisor for 15 years accumulated approximately 3.9 times more wealth than comparable investors who did not.**

Think about that for a moment.

Not 10% more.
Not 20% more.
Nearly four times as much wealth.

The study concluded that the difference was not primarily due to superior investment returns. Instead, it was driven by better financial habits and behaviours.

The Biggest Threat to Investment Success Isn't the Market

Most people believe the biggest risk to their financial future is a market crash.

In reality, the biggest risk is often our own behaviour.

Many investors:

Buy when markets are high because everyone is talking about investing.
Sell when markets fall because fear takes over.
Chase last year's top-performing fund.
Keep too much money sitting in cash.
Delay investing while waiting for the "perfect" time.
Start financial plans but never follow through.

These behaviours can quietly cost investors hundreds of thousands of dollars over their lifetime.

A good advisor helps clients avoid these costly mistakes.

# # Financial Planning Is More Than Picking Investments

Many people think financial advisors simply recommend investments. The truth is that investments are only one piece of the puzzle.
A comprehensive financial plan may include:

Retirement planning
Tax planning
Estate planning
Insurance planning
Business succession planning
Education planning
Cash flow management
Corporate planning
Charitable giving strategies
Wealth transfer planning

The investment portfolio is simply the vehicle. The financial plan is the roadmap. Without a roadmap, even the best vehicle may not get you where you want to go.

# # The Power of Accountability

Consider fitness.

Most people know they should exercise.

Most people know they should eat healthy.

Yet many still hire trainers and coaches.

Why?

Because accountability matters.

Financial planning works the same way.

An advisor often serves as a financial coach who helps clients stay focused on long-term goals when emotions and distractions try to pull them off course. Having someone to call during market volatility can be worth far more than trying to navigate uncertainty alone.

# # Life Doesn't Happen in a Straight Line

Financial plans rarely fail because of investment performance.

They often fail because life happens.
A business owner wants to sell their company.
A child has special needs.
Parents require long-term care.
A spouse passes away unexpectedly.
A family receives an inheritance.
A retirement date changes.
A health issue arises.

These situations require more than an investment account.

They require planning, strategy, and guidance.

# # Technology Is Powerful — But It Has Limits

I believe technology has made investing more accessible than ever.
That's a good thing. Many investors can successfully use online platforms and low-cost solutions.

However, technology cannot replace conversations about:

* Family dynamics
* Estate concerns
* Business succession
* Tax-efficient wealth transfer
* Protecting vulnerable dependents
* Retirement income strategies
* Behavioural coaching

A calculator can produce numbers.

A financial advisor helps clients make decisions.

Those are not the same thing.

# # The Cost of Doing Nothing

Many people focus on the cost of financial advice. Few people calculate the cost of financial mistakes.

What is the cost of:

* Delaying retirement by five years?
* Paying unnecessary taxes?
* Losing an estate planning opportunity?
* Selling during a market correction?
* Not having proper insurance coverage?
* Missing government benefits?
* Leaving an unprepared family behind?

These costs can be far greater than any advisory fee.

# # Advice Creates Confidence

The true value of advice is not simply measured in dollars.

It is measured in confidence.
Confidence that your family is protected.
Confidence that your retirement is on track.
Confidence that your estate will transfer efficiently.
Confidence that your financial decisions are aligned with your goals.
Confidence that someone is helping you see opportunities and risks you may not see on your own.

# # Final Thoughts

There is nothing wrong with managing your own investments. Many people do it successfully. But there is a significant difference between managing investments and creating a comprehensive financial plan.

The research suggests that investors who receive professional advice tend to save more, stay invested longer, make better decisions, and ultimately build substantially greater wealth.

At the end of the day, financial success is not about finding the next hot investment. It's about making consistent, disciplined decisions over many years. And sometimes, having the right advisor beside you can make all the difference.

Vishal Vashisht (B.Sc., RIS)
Insurance & Financial Advisor
SMJ Wealth, Calgary, AB
Licensed in Alberta, BC & Ontario

**Real financial planning — not just policies and products.**

*This article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered tax, legal, or investment advice. Individual circumstances vary and professional advice should be obtained before making financial decisions.*

05/31/2026

Two reports came out today in Canada.

Most Canadians only paid attention to one.

The headlines focused on the technical recession, which is two consecutive quarters of negative growth.

But the more important report may have been the Bank of Canada’s Financial Stability Report. One word stood out:

“Vulnerable.”

Not just the economy. Canadian households. Many families today are dealing with:

• Higher mortgage renewal payments
• Rising living costs
• Increased debt levels
• Job uncertainty
• Financial stress despite having stable incomes

The reality is that many hardworking Canadians are only one unexpected event away from financial difficulty.

An illness.
A disability.
A job interruption.
A major expense.
A loss in the family.

This is why financial planning matters more than ever.

Not just investments.
Not just insurance.
Not just retirement planning.

Real financial planning is about building resilience, so families can withstand difficult periods without losing everything they worked hard to build.

The good news?

This is still a warning, not a verdict.

Canada has gone through difficult economic cycles before, and we will get through this one too. But preparation matters.

The families who plan ahead generally have more choices, less stress, and greater financial stability during uncertain times. Now may be a good time to review:

Emergency savings
Debt management
Insurance protection
Retirement plans
Estate and tax planning
Overall financial resilience

Because financial security is not built during a crisis. It is built before one happens. Remember my favorite quote?

We don't plan to fail, we fail to plan.

04/04/2026

03/05/2026

I’m pleased to share that I have earned the Responsible Investment Specialist (RIS) credential from the Responsible Investment Association.

Responsible investing is becoming increasingly important for investors who want their portfolios to reflect not only financial goals but also environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations. This credential strengthens my ability to help clients understand how responsible investing strategies can align long-term financial growth with sustainable and ethical business practices.

As an advisor, my goal is always to provide informed guidance so clients can make confident financial decisions. I look forward to continuing to support individuals, families, and business owners with thoughtful investment strategies that reflect both performance and responsibility.

Vishal Vashisht, B.Sc., RIS
[email protected]

11/01/2025

As we step into November, we enter one of the most meaningful months of the year — a time to pause, reflect, and prepare.

In Canada, November carries a unique blend of remembrance, awareness, and learning. It’s more than just a lead-up to the holidays — it’s a reminder to look back at what we’ve achieved, honor those who served, and plan wisely for what’s next.

Here’s a look at what makes November in Canada — A Month of Reflection, Awareness, and Financial Readinessmber special across Canada:

1. Financial Literacy Month - Each November, Canada celebrates Financial Literacy Month — a national effort to help Canadians strengthen their understanding of money, savings, investing, and planning for the future.

It’s an opportunity for everyone — individuals, families, and business owners — to take a closer look at how their finances are structured, whether their money is working efficiently, and what small changes could make a big difference over time.

For me, this month represents the perfect moment to have real conversations about financial planning, tax efficiency, insurance strategies, and year-end preparation — because understanding your money is the first step toward protecting and growing it.

2. Remembrance Day – November 11 - On November 11, we stop to remember the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. This solemn day reminds us of the value of sacrifice, freedom, and gratitude — and it’s a chance to teach younger generations the importance of remembering.

In my practice, I often draw a parallel between remembrance and planning: just as we honor the past, we must also take responsibility for the future — ensuring that the people we love are protected and provided for.

3. Indigenous Disability Awareness Month - November also marks Indigenous Disability Awareness Month (IDAM) — recognizing the experiences and contributions of Indigenous Peoples living with disabilities.

It reminds us of the importance of inclusion, support, and accessibility — values that should guide how we plan financially for every family and every individual, no matter their circumstances.

4. Movember — Men's Health Awareness Month November is also known as Movember, a global movement raising awareness about men's health issues such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health.

It’s a reminder that good health is a foundation for everything — including financial well-being. Taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and financially are all part of building long-term stability and peace of mind.

5. Introducing: “Year-End Tax Planning Month” by SMJ Wealth

As part of Financial Literacy Month, I’m officially declaring November as “Year-End Tax Planning Month” at SMJ Wealth.

Throughout this month, I’ll be sharing practical insights and strategies to help Canadians:

- Minimize taxes before the year closes

- Optimize RRSP, TFSA, and investment contributions

- Explore charitable giving opportunities

- Review insurance and estate plans for tax efficiency

- And prepare financially for a strong start to 2026

Whether you’re a family, professional, or business owner, November is your last window to make smart tax moves before December 31.

Stay Tuned — Weekly Posts Coming Your Way

Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing:

- Checklists for year-end financial planning

- Tax-saving ideas for individuals and corporations

- Common mistakes to avoid before December 31

- Real-life examples of how Canadians can save thousands through smart planning

If you’ve been meaning to “get your finances in order before the year ends,” this is the time. Let’s make November a month of learning, planning, and financial clarity.

Let’s Connect

If you’d like to review your situation or explore how year-end strategies can work in your favor, reach out — I’m happy to help you make sense of it all.

Vishal Vashisht (B.Sc.)

Insurance Specialist & Financial Advisor

403-334-8939

www.SMJWealth.com & https://smjwealth.thelinkbetween.ca/

10/17/2025

What Sets SMJ Wealth Apart from 'Order-Taker' Advisors:

At SMJ Wealth, our mission goes beyond managing money — it’s about protecting families from financial predators who want to take it.

Too many advisors stop at portfolio performance. Meanwhile, their clients are being pitched questionable 'opportunities' at dinner parties or through friends and family. By the time they ask for advice, it’s often too late.

We believe if we’re not actively protecting our clients from scams, someone else is actively targeting them.

The Reality: Financial Predators Are Everywhere and what are they doing? They prey on:

The fear of missing out on high returns

Anxiety about market volatility

Trust in friends or family

Confusion about complex financial products

And here’s what makes it worse: Your so-called well-wishers often won’t tell you about these “opportunities” until after you’re already invested.

The 3-Step Defense System

This isn’t paranoia — it’s proactive financial protection. Here’s how we build a wall around your wealth:

Step 1: Spot the Red Flags:

We will give you a 10% return - If a 10-year Treasury is paying 3% and someone promises 10%, that’s not higher rate of return, that’s higher (potentially unlimited) risk.

This high return offer expires tomorrow - Legitimate investments don't have countdown timers.

Explaining complex products - Don't worry, it is very complex to explain, but you can trust me - If they can't explain it simply, they don't understand it.

Pressure to act fast - Everyone else is making money using this investment/strategy and you are the only one missing out - Good opportunities don't require pressure tactics.

Step 2: Build Open Communication

We tell our clients: “I’d rather you run every investment idea by us than lose money to a scam.” That’s why we schedule regular check-ins, create a judgment-free space for questions, and educate clients about how scams actually work.

Step 3: Simplify the Conversation

Financial jargon creates confusion — and confusion creates vulnerability. We explain strategies in plain English, just like a doctor would explain a medical procedure.

What True Service Looks Like

Our belief: Great advice isn’t about chasing performance; it’s about protecting people. We understand that clients may forgive a bad quarter, but they won’t forgive losing money to a scam while their advisor looks the other way. That’s why we will stay next to you at every step of our partnership.

At SMJ Wealth, superior service means explaining every recommendation clearly, being available for every “Is this real?” conversation, protecting clients from financial predators (even when it’s someone close to them), and prioritizing client security over our compensation.

The SMJ Wealth Difference:

We differentiate ourselves from advisors who only focus on performance.

We build lasting trust and deeper relationships.

We earn more referrals because our clients know that we care about protecting their wealth, not just growing it.

We are not a part of Multi Level Marketing organization.

We are dual licensed (insurance and investments).

We are licensed in AB, BC & ON.

At SMJ Wealth, we don’t just take orders — we take responsibility.

Vishal Vashisht (B.Sc.)
Insurance & Financial Advisor
SMJ Wealth | Calgary, AB
[email protected]
403-334-8939
www.SMJWealth.com
www.smjwealth.thelinkbetween.ca

09/15/2025

Planning for all of life’s events is not always possible. The same can be said for the transfer of a life insurance policy to a new owner, whether an individual or corporation. While it’s best to avoid the need to transfer life insurance entirely – and the accompanying tax consequences, which can be complex and onerous - it’s not always possible to foresee every future circumstance, and so sometimes, it just needs to be done.

Transferring an insurance policy can get tricky. Read this article to understand the options and penalties of personal and corporate policy transfers.

07/02/2025

Top 10 Reasons Why People Don’t Prepare for Their Financial Future — And What It Costs Them

Despite having access to more financial tools, advice, and education than ever before, many Canadians still delay or avoid preparing for their financial future. The consequences are significant — not just in dollars and cents, but in stress, uncertainty, and missed opportunities. Whether you're in your 30s or 60s, understanding these common barriers is the first step to breaking through them.

Here are the top 10 reasons why people don’t plan — and how to shift their mindset before it’s too late.

1. "I’ll Do It Later" – The Procrastination Trap

Procrastination is the silent killer of financial dreams. Many people think there will always be more time but delaying financial planning means losing out on years of compound growth, missing tax-saving opportunities, and increasing risk.

The cost of waiting is real. Investing $500/month at 6% for 30 years grows to $502,000. Start 10 years later and it's just $240,000.

2. "It’s Too Complicated" – Financial Overwhelm

The financial world can feel complex: RRSPs, TFSAs, life insurance, estate planning, budgeting, and tax strategies — the jargon alone is enough to make people freeze.

But that’s what advisors are for. A professional breaks it down into simple, actionable steps based on your unique goals. This is why say "You need people like me".

3. "I Don’t Make Enough Money to Plan"

This is a myth. Financial planning is for everyone — not just the wealthy. Even small income earners can benefit from budgeting, insurance protection, and tax-efficient savings.

In fact, lower-income individuals have even more to gain from proper planning — because they can’t afford financial setbacks.

4. "I Don’t Trust Financial Advisors"

Mistrust or bad past experiences with advisors can be a barrier. But a good advisor is not a salesperson — they’re a licensed professional who helps you make smart decisions about your money.

Look for a certified, fiduciary-based advisor who puts your goals first.

One serious fact is that if you work with advisors, you are likely to have up to 4 times more wealth compared to those who don't work with an advisor.

5. "I’m Young — I Have Time"

Youth is your greatest financial asset — because of time. A 25-year-old who invests $100/month until 65 can retire with more money than someone who starts at 40 with $400/month.

Starting early means less pressure later and more freedom to choose your future. In my last post I did share that if I can go back in time and change one thing, that would be planning from my teen age. The sooner you start the better it would be. Today is not too late.

6. "My Partner Handles It"

Relying solely on a spouse or partner for financial decisions can be risky. Life changes — divorce, illness, death — can leave the uninformed partner vulnerable.

Every adult should understand their household finances and take part in planning.

In my meetings I encourage both partners to join because both partners need to know what's happening and their input is very important. If you have headache, can you partner take medicine on your behalf?

7. "I Don’t Want to Think About Dying or Getting Sick"

Avoidance of unpleasant topics is natural — but dangerous. Failing to plan for disability, illness, or death can financially devastate families.

A will, power of attorney, and life and critical illness insurance are not morbid — they’re smart, caring acts.

8. "I’m Doing Fine Now" – Present Bias

When current life feels comfortable, it’s easy to ignore the future. But jobs change, inflation erodes savings, markets fluctuate, and emergencies happen.

What feels fine today may not sustain your lifestyle 10, 20, or 30 years from now.

9. "I Don’t Know Where to Start"

Uncertainty leads to inaction. Without a clear starting point, many people never take the first step.

Start with a simple checklist: Budget. Debt. Insurance. Retirement savings. Estate plan. Then seek help to fill the gaps.

10. "What If I Fail?" – Fear of Mistakes

Fear of making the wrong choice keeps many stuck. But doing nothing is often the worst choice.

The truth? You don’t need perfection. You need to make progress. Start small, stay consistent, and adjust along the way.

Trust me I have made mistakes in the past and still do. They don't make me stop from doing something. I learn every time I make a mistake.



The Cost of Not Preparing

Not planning means:

Higher taxes
Missed investment growth
Underinsurance
Poor retirement income
Family stress

It also means fewer choices, more dependency, and avoidable regret.

How to Break Through the Barriers

Schedule a financial check-up — Just like a doctor’s visit.
Work with a licensed advisor — Like Vishal Vashisht (B.Sc.), who serves Alberta, BC, and Ontario.
Use simple tools — Budget apps, retirement calculators, and insurance reviews.
Focus on your “why” — Think about your family, goals, and freedom.



Start Now. Your Future Self Will Thank You.

The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is today.

Stop waiting. Start planning.



Visit www.SMJWealth.com and click on “About Us” to learn how I, Vishal Vashisht (B.Sc.), Insurance & Financial Advisor, help Canadians build financial confidence for life.

06/25/2025

I firmly believe in "people don't plan to fail, they fail to plan"? You will notice that I use this quote many times and often on a regular basis.

19 years ago when I joined banking, I never thought of planning for my future due to many reasons. Today when I meet a prospect and I try to educate them so that they don't commit the same mistakes that I committed 19 years ago. If there's one thing I can change by going back into time would be to start planning at an early age. As early as in my teens. I think by now, I would've easily retired if I started in my teens.

There are many reasons we don't plan. Every year we plan to pay CRA but we don't plan for ourselves. While reading a book I found a very good chapter about planning for future. I though to share it with you because if you can read and understand the importance of planning, I think my and others in the industry will have individuals chasing them to plan. So, here it is:

Top ten reasons for not preparing for your future:

1. I will get to it as soon as I finish this one chore.

2. I am not afraid to die. I just don't want to be there when it happens.

3. My situation will be much clearer in year 2035.

4. I don't see any dark clouds on the horizon (financially). There's nothing to worry about.

5. I am afraid if I make a will, I will die.

6. I never think of the future. It comes soon enough.

7. I trust the government.

8. Dying is a very dull and dreary affair. I intend to have nothing to do with it.

9. The future is uncertain, better eat dessert first.

10. I have developed a new philosophy - I only dread one day at a time.

Some of these will make total sense, and some may not. I have heard from many 1st generation immigrants that they will move back to their birth country when they retire. How many can actually do that? A lot of us want to plan, but food on the table takes precedence and they keep delaying planning until it is too late. Although it is never too late to plan, and today is the best day to plan even if your are planning to retire tomorrow.

I feel bad when I see articles in newspapers referring to individuals still working to make ends meet instead of enjoying their golden years. The question I ask myself is what if they met me a few years ago, would retirement have turned out different for them?

I will have another post about this subject next week. Until then, think how planning can benefit you?

06/24/2025

Join us for a live stream discussion of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) processes, like mediation or arbitration, etc., and how financial expertise can be of great benefit to settlements, as we explore how to move forward in healthy monetary growth. There are reasons for most legal jurisdictions, like Alberta's, making ADR processes the primary means of resolution. Many are also unaware that one does not have to petition the courts to have a judge tell them they must use an ADR process of their choice as well as a facilitator; disputants can reach out to firms like eXperience ADR directly to begin finding resolution, as long as it's within family or civil matters. So, join us for a discussion on these topics and more, online live, this Thursday at 6pm (MST)!

Join us for a live stream discussion of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) processes, like mediation or arbitration, etc. , and how financial expertise can be of great benefit to settlements, as we explore how to move forward in healthy monetary growth, not loss. There are reasons for most legal j...