Event Details

Opening Remarks: Why Canada’s Advice Gap
Matters Now

This opening segment frames the central theme of the day: the growing disconnect between what Canadians need and what the traditional financial services system delivers. We will define the advice gap, outline who is most affected, and set expectations for how each session will build toward practical, scalable solutions. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of the forces driving the advice gap and why closing it represents not only an important national challenge but also a powerful growth opportunity for forward-looking advisors.

Richard S. Pyper
CEO, EXOS Wealth Systems & President, Customplan Financial Advisors

Understanding the Canadian Consumer: Economic Pressures & Industry Shifts

This session provides advisors with a grounded and highly relevant update on the economic realities facing the majority of Canadian households. From infl ation and debt pressures to interest rate movements and affordability challenges, we connect macroeconomic trends directly to the lived experience of middle-income Canadians. Participants will also explore how insurers and regulators are responding—sometimes in ways that inadvertently make advice less accessible. This segment positions advisors to understand where unmet needs are greatest and how industry evolution intersects with the rising demand for accessible, affordable advice.

René Fantin
Senior Portfolio Manager, SEAMARK Asset Management Ltd

Technology as an Equalizer: Using Digital Tools to Close the Advice Gap

Technology is fundamentally reshaping how advice is delivered, and in many cases, how accessible it becomes. This session cuts through the hype and focuses on which emerging technologies—AI, automation, analytics, digital onboarding, hybrid advice platforms—are helping advisors reach more Canadians, more efficiently. We explore how tech can reduce cost-to-serve, simplify compliance, support personalization at scale, and meet clients where they already are digitally. Attendees will gain practical clarity on how to adopt these tools responsibly to make advice more affordable, inclusive, and effective.

Richard S. Pyper
CEO, EXOS Wealth Systems & President, Customplan Financial Advisors

The Human Factor: Behavioural Insights into Today’s Underserved Client

This segment goes deep into the mindset of underserved Canadians—how they think, what they fear, and what prevents them from seeking advice. Through a behavioural science lens, we examine the emotional barriers, trust gaps, and cognitive biases that shape financial decision-making. Participants will explore how digital research, online content, and automated solutions influence expectations before clients ever speak to a human advisor. The session emphasizes how timeless advisory skills—empathy, clarity, trust, and personalized guidance—remain the most powerful tools advisors have, especially for those who feel uncertain or intimidated by the financial system.

Kevin Pledge
CEO & Founder, Acceptiv

Building a Modern, Accessible Practice: Growth Strategies for a New Advisory Landscape

The final segment synthesizes the day’s insights into a practical blueprint for business growth. Advisors will learn how to position themselves to serve underserved Canadians profitably and sustainably using modern prospecting methods, streamlined sales processes, and tech-enabled workflows. This session highlights how AI and digital tools can expand reach and improve engagement without sacrificing the human connection clients value most. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies, templates, and real-world approaches that help them grow their business while playing a meaningful role in closing Canada’s advice gap.

Brent van Ryzewyk
 Principal, Barron's Financial Advisory Services Ltd.