When a U.K.-based ultra-high-net-worth client, with access to any financial advisor worldwide, chooses B.C.-based Odlum Brown, it speaks volumes.
According to the firm’s president, Trevor Short, this choice is rooted in two key factors: trust in Odlum Brown’s century-plus of investment expertise and its independence as an employee-owned firm. “Unlike bank-owned firms, we don’t earn our revenues from syndication, capital markets, or trading – our focus is always on the client,” Short explains.
Odlum Brown is highly regarded for its bespoke investment strategies, tailored to evolve with clients’ changing life goals. “Our advisors craft and manage portfolios customized to meet each client’s specific financial objectives, guiding them through the complexities of markets, wealth management and financial planning,” says Short. “This personalized approach is a hallmark of the client experience that sets smaller, independent firms like ours apart.”
Generations of clients also trust Odlum Brown’s advice because they know it’s backed by thorough research, and they rely on this expertise in times of market volatility.
“We’re not traders – we’re investors, and investing is a marathon, not a sprint. The ability of our research team and advisors to “hold hands” during periods of uncertainty are key to our success – helping clients stay the course and focus on their long-term plans and goals,” Short adds.
In today’s landscape of conflicting investment advice and DIY fintech tools, Odlum Brown stands out by offering personalized, advisor-managed portfolios that clients of all generations can trust. "We recognize that the financial goals of younger generations may differ from those of their parents, but the need for trusted relationships and guidance remains constant," explains Short. "By engaging early, we help the next generation build financial literacy, develop sound investment habits and avoid the pitfalls of DIY platforms."
In addition to client relationships, Odlum Brown remains deeply committed to giving back. “Our community support goes back to our founders, and it’s something we take seriously,” says Short. The firm supports over 150 community organizations across Canada, ranging from the arts to healthcare, and was honored with a Canada's Volunteer Award by the Government of Canada in 2020 for its efforts.
Odlum Brown has an impressive 100 years of investing for clients to look back on, and many more to look forward to. Although many things in the world have changed over the last century, Short says Odlum Brown’s client-centered approach has and will remain the same. “We understand that each of our clients has unique needs and circumstances, and believe they deserve to have advisors they can trust to steward their wealth. We firmly believe that if we do right for the client, we will, in turn, remain successful.”
