The investment management industry in Canada is always under the watchful eye of government regulatory bodies, the media and the public. In the current economic environment, companies continue to navigate those challenges alongside heightened expectations from clients and investors while repositioning their organizations for a post-COVID-19 world.
The impact of the pandemic on the investment management industry has varied. While many companies have continued to perform well, the employee and operations aspects of many organizations were affected by stay-at-home orders. For some investment management firms, the pandemic did serve as the catalyst to fully embrace digital transformation plans. It has launched a new era in the sector, creating exciting opportunities for the bold movers.
Climate and sustainability are also becoming important differentiators and many asset owners are making ambitious commitments around net zero emissions. An increasing number of regulators are pushing forward with environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) disclosure requirements for financial players. Those investment managers who are well-versed in ESG issues and can help clients make informed decisions in this area will be well-positioned.
These issues add to the constant pressure to grow market share by introducing new and innovative products, especially during this time when investor demographics and demands are changing rapidly.
How we can help
At Osler, we advise on a wide range of fund formation projects including exchange-traded funds, mutual funds, pooled funds, closed-end funds, hedge funds, and other public and private products and investment strategies. We also provide clients with ongoing advice on their investment management and marketing and distribution activities, as well as registration, regulatory and compliance matters.
By drawing on our team of experts who specialize in securities regulation, tax, pensions and corporate law, we give clients strategic and agile legal advice on their investment management activities. Osler is at the forefront of all aspects of investment management, from investigations to dispute resolution, and has extensive experience handling litigation related to securities class actions, regulation and other issues that investment management firms may encounter and need to prepare for.
If your operations are cross-border, we have significant expertise advising U.S., U.K, and other non-Canadian investment managers concerning their Canadian business activities.
Osler’s team has the expertise to best understand your risk profile and your organization’s unique needs.