As I begin writing my summer letter, I’m sitting on a plane 30,000 feet in the air coming back from meeting clients in Calgary. As I think about what I’m going to write, it always puts me in reflective mood of what’s going on currently both in my life and around the world. Two thoughts come to mind: First is the distinction between perception versus reality and the second is relevance versus importance.
2025 has been a vivid reminder of the contrast between perception and reality. Despite a barrage of negative headlines—tariffs, geopolitical tensions, and fears of economic slowdown—2025 has so far been a positive year for client portfolios. In client meetings there is a pleasant surprise that the financial reality is better than the financial perception. It’s a testament to the resilience of markets and the importance of looking beyond the noise. One constant in news reporting, especially financial news, is that “bad” news sells better than good. Good news is too boring.
This brings us to an essential distinction: relevance versus importance. An example to illustrate this distinction is the recent closure of the Hudson’s Bay Company’s stores after over 355 years of operations. Once a cornerstone of Canadian culture and commerce, the company’s decline wasn’t due to a lack of importance—its historical and cultural significance is undeniable. Instead, the Bay became irrelevant to a new generation of consumers who found greater value, convenience, and connection elsewhere. Its story serves as a cautionary tale for all businesses: staying relevant is critical for survival and success.
I would suggest staying relevant is important to us as individuals as well. We all have a personal brand, whether we are intentional or not. For students, employees, CEOs, or business owners, your personal brand is what you put out into the world based on what you say and how you act. I asked members of my study group what they thought three words were that described my brand. They said passion, intensity, and integrity. I’m working on my intensity :). To illustrate, recently I had some work done at my house. The contractor had a vendor dropping off supplies at my property. Unbeknown to me, not all the supplies were there when the work began. The contractor then invoiced me for the lost (or stolen materials). In the conversation that followed I told him that if I paid his invoice, I would be admitting guilt. The fact of the matter is that all we have is reputation, and mine is built on trust and integrity. Thus – I told him – I would not be paying for those materials. We all have a brand, and we need to strongly advocate for and protect it at times. What would be the three words your friends would say your brand is?
In a rapidly changing world, staying relevant also requires adaptability and lifelong learning. They are not just assets; they are necessities. At 61, I have no illusions I will not be keeping up with all the changes happening around me. Some I choose not to. But I realize that at a minimum I must try to keep evolving and learning new things. Our ability to remain relevant to those who need us – whether clients, colleagues, or communities – will define our sense of fulfillment. And to do that, we must cultivate a sense of curiosity because curiosity keeps us connected. My grandson, through his actions, reminds me of this every time I visit.
At The Andrews Group, Assante Capital Management, we embrace this ideology. We have a brand, we have a philosophy, and both help our clients succeed and have peace of mind. Sometimes we must lean in. We do this with the intention of helping our clients realize they have a trusted partner who cares about them, their family, and their financial future. We are consistently staying ahead of trends, deepening our knowledge, and fostering meaningful connections. Whether through market insights, personalized strategies, or simply being a sounding board, our relevance hinges on our ability to support your financial journey to be as successful as it is rewarding. You are the ultimate judge, which is why we ask for and value your opinions and insights.
A client recently provided feedback that his perception was that we only utilized Dimensional Fund Advisors as our investment management firm and may not consider other options. I thought that was an insightful comment. I explained, in reality we get solicited daily by firms offering alternate solutions. We are consistently reviewing options that may complement client portfolios, whether it be structured notes, mortgages, private equity, or real estate. Some of these investment solutions would be easy to “sell” but our fiduciary responsibility is to filter the noise from these providers and do our due diligence based on risk, cost, expected return and appropriate fit. You can be assured we will only recommend something we have thoroughly vetted and are implementing for ourselves. We walk our talk.
News from the office…
We now have nine talented, dedicated people that make up The Andrews Group team in London. I am sincerely grateful and appreciative to them all for their conscientious work and commitment to being the best advisory team to all our clients. I talked with a client yesterday who is moving into the next phase of his life and said: “I have another 30 years to go so I need a long-term relationship”. With the average age amongst our team being 35, we are well equipped to be here for generations to come. We have built this business for tenure, experience, and client service. I couldn’t be prouder of the people who are part of this team.
We Are Young (WAY) Biathlon was held on Saturday June 21st and was our 3rd year supporting this organization and helping raise awareness through a fun day of running/walking and archery. Each year participation grows, as does donors and sponsors. This charity which raises awareness for seniors through the granting of wishes has been inspirational and rewarding for the biathlon participants and volunteers.
The Team…
Rachel and her husband Matt are spending the summer with their active daughter, Lina (3) whether it be at the beach, Children’s Museum or one of the parks in London.
Orla and Christian are going to Italy this summer with stops in Rome and Pompeii. I’m not sure who is pet sitting their multiple pets, as Orla is an animal lover.
Jess this summer is continuing her passions for crafting – she made the office all matching shirts this summer to help Lee celebrate his diabetes anniversary. When she’s not crafting, she will be gardening, playing with her daughter Izzy, or watching her fiancé Brett play baseball.
Laura has started to take tennis lessons. I am not sure if she’s considering the professional circuit yet, as she is still active with her daughter River.
Reid, not being a winter person, is in full socializing gear with friends and playing tennis with his fiancée Tammy.
Chris – like Reid – is not a big winter person and really gets energized by summer and the ability to get out on the golf course with friends, clients, and his partner Steph.
Lee is scheduled in for a few music festivals, food tastings and the odd game of golf. Lee raised our awareness of diabetes, which he has had for 30 years. He arranged a tour and education at Banting House for family and friends last month.
Chad and Christina recently came back from a trip in Barcelona. Chad has a passion for cooking, so I’m sure he’s looking forward to keeping the smoker going trying out different recipes. Him and Christina are both busy with Leo and Olivia being involved in soccer.
My daughter, Cassey is welcoming a second boy into the family at the end of July. It will be a busy and super fun household. I added a road trip with my daughter, Hailey into my western Canada client meetings. We drove from Vancouver to Calgary, through the mountains, hiking and savoring the local cuisine in Kelowna, Nelson, and Fernie. Canada is certainly a big, beautiful country. Sayra and I like to spend the summers outside and enjoy running (she’s halfway through her trail races season!) and biking (getting ready for my annual MTB trip!). This year her parents are coming for a 2 week visit from Colombia. It will be nice to spend some time with them as well.
As you soak up the summer sun and spend time with family and friends, I encourage you to reflect on what is your personal brand, and how do you stay engaged, connected, and relevant in your life and work. Relevance isn’t about staying the same; it’s about being curious and leaning into change with purpose and perspective.
Here’s to a summer of growth, curiosity, and clarity.
All the best,
Mike Andrews, FCSI®, CIM,
Wealth Advisor
Disclaimer:
The opinions expressed are those of the author and not necessarily those of Assante Capital Management Ltd. This material is provided for general information and the opinions expressed 4 and information provided herein are subject to change without notice. Every effort has been made to compile this material from reliable sources however no warranty can be made as to its accuracy or completeness. Before acting on the information presented, please seek professional financial advice based on your personal circumstances. Assante Capital Management Ltd. is a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund and the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization.
