Gratitude

Most people looking back on 2016 would acknowledge that it has been one of the more challenging years in recent memory. Yet with only two weeks to go, it is hard not to look back with satisfaction on both the returns generated for our clients, as well as the difference our financial planning team has made in the financial lives of those who have taken advantage of their service. We are not saving lives here on Richmond Street. But we are trying to make a difference in the financial circumstances of those who entrust their hard-earned wealth to us. In that respect, 2016 has been most satisfactory.

As it happens, December is an extremely busy time of the year at Nexus. To be sure, there is a more relaxed feeling within the office. We are all making plans for the holidays, the downtown core is dressed for the season and, like any line of work, from time-to-time a gift basket is delivered, only to be devoured in short order by our growing team.

Yet at the same time, largely arising out of our interactions at our November event, there is an increase of follow-on discussions and meetings with clients. It’s also the time of year when there is a natural increase in requests related to charitable donations and tax payments. As for the markets, while it’s true that trading volume slows, there remains a drumbeat of news to be followed. Events of a geopolitical nature don’t respect the holiday season mindset, and December is surprisingly busy with conferences, central bank meetings, earnings announcements, and the like.

However, a happy by-product of a busy environment such as this is that it makes me realize how fortunate I am to have the colleagues, clients, supportive family, and business opportunity that I do at this firm. Obviously, the milieu of a business such as ours is far removed from the experience of most Canadians. And while Nexus has opinions on many issues of the day, it is surely not for me to tell our clients how fortunate most of them are. Instead, I’m going to use the final blog of the year to express my gratitude to my colleagues, clients, and family. I am fortunate to work with them, and to be supported by them. Thank you.

As always, onward and upward in 2017!