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Jacob Chang 

Jacob is an Associate Advisor, who joined our team earlier last year, bringing 9 years of experience in the financial industry. He typically helps young individuals/families (25-45 years old) who are:
• Planning to buy their first or second house in Vancouver/Toronto
• Unsure how to optimize finances (especially with a spouse and/or incorporated business)
• Focused on raising their young children

What inspired you to become a financial advisor? 

My dad died unexpectedly at age 55. Our family was financially and emotionally unprepared, and my mom and I had to learn very quickly. The fear of losing our home and the weight of responsibility was immense, especially with two minor siblings. Every small decision cost us thousands of dollars. Due to the severe stress and fatigue, my doctor diagnosed me with stress-related shingles at 17 years old.

 

Thankfully, we had several amazing advisors. I was surprised that, in just a single conversation, they could save our family huge amounts of money and countless hours of time, stress, and energy. Their guidance inspired me to become the kind of advisor that they were to my family.

Can you walk us through your journey and key moments that brought you to where you are now?

  • In 2015 I met Sunny Lam CFP,RFP and Ken Chong CPA,CA. They taught me to love investing. And to love insurance even more. And to love tax planning even more!

  • In 2016 I worked as a stock analyst for Lieh Wang CFA. He taught me how to invest objectively and wisely.
  • In 2017 I met Barry Hawn CPA,CA, Personal Finance Professor at Western University. He taught me the joys of teaching Personal Finance.
  • In 2019 I learned about value investing from Professor George Athanassakos, who learned from Warren Buffett.
  • In 2021 I met Ivan Chen CFP,CHS,CKA,CLU,EPC,CPCA,CEA,MFA-P. He taught me about Biblical Stewardship and taught me how to go above and beyond for clients. In 2021 I also lectured my first class at Simon Fraser University.
  • In 2023 I met Bobby Ning CFP,EPC and Alphil Guilaran. I am currently learning the nuances and complexities of financial planning for medical professionals, business owners, and Family Offices. 

What is your favourite aspect of working with your clients?

My favourite aspect of work is simply meeting my clients and learning from each other.

If I wasn’t paid, I would still be doing this job.

Besides the paperwork, I rarely feel like I’m working… it just feels like I’m chatting with my friends all day!

Can you share a moment with a client that was particularly rewarding or meaningful to you?

One of my financial planning mentors was working with a client who had just entered a very tough financial situation. This situation resulted in them (the client) taking a job that required a 3-hour commute. After one of our meetings (and careful consideration), my mentor handed his car keys to the client and told them to keep it.

My mentor taught me that many assets are good investments, but the best investments are in people.

Every family should review their financial plans with a lawyer, accountant, and financial planner.

I cannot count the number of times my mentors and I have heard the words “I wish we met you earlier.”

A 20-minute conversation can save a person a lifetime of despair, grief, pain, and regret. A second opinion costs nothing, but ignorance could cost you everything.

What is one piece of financial advice you believe everyone should follow?

If you would like to learn more about working with Jacob, you can review his LinkedIn profile here. Think he is a good match for your situation? Let us know here!

The comments contained herein are a general discussion of certain issues intended as general information only and should not be relied upon as tax or legal advice. Please obtain independent professional advice, in the context of your particular circumstances. This article was written, designed and produced by Financial Literacy Counsel, a registered trade name with Investia Financial Services Inc., and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Investia Financial Services Inc. The information contained in this article comes from sources we believe reliable, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or reliability. The opinions expressed are based on an analysis and interpretation dating from the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, they do not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities.

Mutual Funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments.  Please read the prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.

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