Gary Perron has established a respected name in Canada’s investment sector through more than four decades of steady leadership, independent strategy, and consistent value creation. His career includes work in private wealth asset management, roles on public company boards, and the founding of both public and private businesses that have achieved strong results.

He has served as CEO, managing director, portfolio manager, and business founder, contributing to the development of independent wealth advisory practices in Western Canada. His influence has shaped approaches to client alignment, performance accountability, and operational independence across the industry.

Independent Advisory Rooted in Experience

He began his career in finance in 1977, working for 36 years at BMO Nesbitt Burns, including its predecessor Burns Fry, in Calgary. During this period, he developed an investment approach built on discipline, adaptability, and accountability. These guiding principles became the basis for the independent firms he later created.

In the 1990s, he co-founded a Calgary-based boutique fund management company that later became NCM Asset Management Ltd. The firm expanded nationally with offices in Calgary and Toronto and earned a reputation for delivering risk-adjusted returns and effectively deploying capital. His leadership positioned the firm as a competitive alternative to larger bank-owned investment companies.

In 2013, he launched Perron & Partners Wealth Management (PPWM), serving high-net-worth clients, family offices, foundations, and business owners. PPWM offered customized financial advice and independent portfolio oversight, free from the influence of Canada’s largest banks. Under his leadership, the firm introduced the Kipling Funds—a set of investment mandates recognized for strong long-term performance.

By 2018, PPWM merged with Cumberland Private Wealth in a strategic move that united two client-focused advisory firms. The merger preserved PPWM’s original mission while expanding its service capabilities under a national platform.

Boardroom Impact and Industry Development

Alongside his portfolio management work, he has served in essential board roles for both public and private companies since his first public directorship in 1988. His experience spans sectors including energy, real estate, and finance, where he contributed to corporate strategy, operational planning, and long-term growth.

He co-founded multiple businesses that achieved successful exits, including an energy company acquired by Petronas in 2012, a lifestyle communities firm purchased by BCIMC in 2010, a real estate company sold to Dundee REIT in 2011, an energy producer acquired by Unocal in 2005, and a resource company sold in 2016.

In these board positions, he consistently provided operational oversight, guidance in strategic financing, and a focus on delivering shareholder value. His additional board appointments have included roles with other energy and resource-focused companies.

In 2017, he co-founded Maple Leaf Marinas (MLM), which has grown into Canada’s largest freshwater marina and dealership group. MLM operates 20 marinas and 11 dealerships, representing its continued interest in building scalable businesses with national reach. MLM’s success demonstrates its ability to lead asset-intensive ventures outside traditional capital markets while applying the same disciplined principles that guided its investment management career.

Commitment to Ethics and Community Engagement

He has long placed a strong emphasis on ethics and community involvement. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Honors) from the University of Manitoba, earned his Chartered Financial Analyst designation in 1984, and completed the Institute of Corporate Directors program in 2015. His background reflects a combination of academic achievement and applied governance experience.

He served on the Investment Dealers Association Advisory Board, providing strategic advice on portfolio management best practices and investor transparency. His contributions in such roles have reinforced his reputation as a dependable and thoughtful participant in the advancement of the investment industry.

In 2009, he founded the Norrep Foundation, which has donated more than $5 million to registered charities in Calgary over the past 12 years. The foundation serves as a private channel for philanthropic giving and reflects his belief in the long-term benefits of supporting the community.

Outside his professional responsibilities, he enjoys travel, golf, and cycling. He also values time at his lake house during the summer months with his children and grandchildren, maintaining a balance between leadership responsibilities and personal life.

Team Awards & Recognition

Under his leadership, Perron & Partners Wealth Management—later part of Cumberland Private Wealth—has earned multiple industry awards, reflecting both performance and dedication to clients. These include:

• Multiple Canadian Hedge Fund Awards nominations in 2022, 2023, and 2024 for the Kipling Strategic Income, Kipling Global Enhanced Dividend, and Kipling Global Enhanced Growth Funds.
• The 2024 Advisory Team of the Year (Under 10 Staff) Award of Excellence, recognizing the team’s dedication to client service, innovation, and leadership.
• A 2023 5-Star Advisory Team honor from Wealth Professional, highlighting contributions to client service and the broader industry.
• A 2025 Wealth Management Award for consistent high performance and outstanding service to clients.

Strategic Focus in a Shifting Investment Landscape

Throughout his career, he has maintained a clear focus on independence, client alignment, and performance-based strategy. Whether launching a boutique fund management firm, advising on public company governance, or growing a national marina platform, he has shown the ability to guide organizations through shifting markets and economic cycles.

Gary Perron continues to be recognized for his leadership and his role in advancing the potential of independent advisory services in Canada. As investor needs evolve and financial markets grow more complex, his work remains an example of strategic clarity backed by decades of proven results.

Portfolio: https://garyperron.com/

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Unearthing Profitable Investment Opportunities in Canada's Resource Industry

Published on: 09/15/2025

Canada is a country rich in natural resources, which form the backbone of its economy. From oil and gas to minerals and forestry, Canada’s resource industry offers a range of investment opportunities. However, many investors are unaware of the hidden potential within these sectors. In this article, we will explore the lesser-known opportunities in Canada’s resource industry that can provide substantial returns for savvy investors.

Canada's Resource Industry: A Hidden Gem

Canada is renowned for its vast natural resources, which encompass petroleum, natural gas, metals, minerals, and extensive forests. While the oil sands in Alberta and the mining operations in northern Canada attract much of the attention, there are many lesser-known opportunities throughout the country. Investors who take the time to explore beyond the well-trodden path can uncover promising sectors with significant growth potential.

The Canadian resource industry is also undergoing a shift toward more sustainable practices. This transformation opens up new avenues for investment, as demand for cleaner energy and environmentally friendly practices continues to rise. By tapping into these emerging trends, investors can position themselves for long-term success.

Investing in Canada’s Clean Energy Revolution

While Canada has long been associated with oil and gas production, the country is making significant strides in transitioning to cleaner energy sources. The renewable energy sector, particularly hydroelectric, wind, and solar power, is expanding rapidly. Canada has a vast potential for hydroelectric power, with numerous rivers and lakes providing the perfect conditions for large-scale energy production.

In addition to hydroelectric power, wind and solar energy are gaining traction as viable sources of renewable energy. Companies involved in the production of solar panels, wind turbines, and energy storage solutions present a promising opportunity for investors looking to participate in the green energy boom.

The Canadian government is also supportive of clean energy initiatives, providing tax incentives and subsidies to encourage investment in renewable energy projects. As the world moves toward a low-carbon future, investing in Canada’s clean energy sector offers a chance to be part of a growing industry with long-term potential.

The Booming Lithium Market

The demand for electric vehicles (EVs) is soaring, and with it, the need for lithium, a key component in EV batteries. Canada is home to significant lithium deposits, particularly in the provinces of Quebec and Ontario. As the world shifts toward electric mobility, lithium mining in Canada presents a unique opportunity for investors.

Several Canadian companies are leading the charge in lithium exploration and extraction, positioning themselves as key players in the global market. As the electric vehicle market grows, so will the demand for lithium, making this an attractive sector for long-term investments.

Moreover, Canada's proximity to the United States and Europe, two of the largest EV markets, gives it a competitive advantage in the global supply chain. For investors looking to capitalize on the booming EV market, lithium mining in Canada is a hidden opportunity worth exploring.

Expanding Opportunities in Mineral Mining

Canada’s mineral mining sector is another area rich with investment potential. The country is renowned for its extensive deposits of precious metals, including gold, silver, and platinum, as well as industrial metals such as copper and nickel. Mining companies in Canada continue to innovate, using new technologies and sustainable practices to increase the efficiency and profitability of operations.

One of the most exciting areas in Canada’s mineral sector is the increasing demand for rare earth elements (REEs), which are essential for modern technologies such as smartphones, wind turbines, and electric vehicles. Canada has significant REE deposits, and companies involved in their extraction are poised to benefit from the growing demand for these critical minerals.

Additionally, Canada’s mining industry is investing heavily in environmentally responsible practices. Companies that prioritize sustainability are likely to attract more investors and customers as environmental concerns become a central issue in the global market. Investors who focus on companies with strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices are likely to see long-term returns as the world embraces greener technologies.

The Potential of Canada’s Forestry Sector

Canada’s forests are another underappreciated resource that presents investment opportunities. The country’s forestry industry is one of the largest in the world, with timber, pulp, and paper products being major exports. However, Canada’s forestry sector is also shifting toward more sustainable practices, which makes it an attractive industry for responsible investors.

Sustainable forestry practices not only help preserve Canada’s natural resources but also create profitable opportunities for businesses involved in timber production, wood products, and bioenergy. Companies that focus on responsible forest management, including reforestation efforts and eco-friendly wood products, are likely to benefit from the growing demand for green products.

Furthermore, the global push for renewable energy has led to an increase in the use of wood pellets as a sustainable source of biomass energy. Canada’s vast forests provide a steady supply of raw materials for this emerging market, offering another avenue for investment.

Unveiling the Hidden Potential

Canada’s resource sector is full of hidden opportunities for investors who are willing to dig deeper. From clean energy to lithium mining, mineral extraction, and sustainable forestry, the country offers a wealth of untapped potential. With the global demand for sustainable and green technologies on the rise, investing in Canada’s resource industry provides a chance to participate in the future of the global economy.

By focusing on emerging industries and sustainable practices, investors can position themselves for success in a rapidly changing market. Whether you're interested in clean energy, rare earth metals, or responsible forestry, Canada’s resource sector provides a unique opportunity to build a diverse and profitable portfolio.

Estate Planning Errors That Quietly Erode Family Fortunes

Published On: 09-08-2025

 
One of the most damaging mistakes affluent families make is postponing estate planning. It’s common to assume that because wealth is abundant, there will always be time to set affairs in order. Unfortunately, illness, sudden death, or unexpected life events can strike without warning, leaving families without a clear plan.

When estate planning is delayed, the courts often step in, resulting in probate delays, added costs, and strained family relationships. By starting early, families gain flexibility and can make thoughtful adjustments over time. Waiting too long means losing options and potentially sacrificing a significant portion of hard-earned wealth.

Outdated or Incomplete Documents

Estate documents are not set-and-forget. Marriages, divorces, births, and financial changes alter the landscape, making older documents less effective. A will drafted years ago may no longer reflect current wishes or account for new laws.

Failing to update estate documents can result in assets being distributed to unintended beneficiaries or missed opportunities for tax efficiency. Regular reviews—at least every few years or after major life events—help ensure that plans remain accurate and aligned with family goals.

Overlooking Tax Planning Opportunities

Taxes play a central role in estate preservation. Without proper planning, large portions of estates can be consumed by federal and state estate taxes. For wealthy families, the difference between proactive planning and neglect can mean millions lost unnecessarily.

Tools such as trusts, charitable vehicles, and lifetime gifting strategies can significantly reduce tax burdens. By incorporating these measures early, families protect wealth and provide heirs with greater security. Ignoring the tax element of estate planning is one of the quietest yet most devastating ways fortunes are diminished.

Poor Executor and Trustee Choices

Selecting executors and trustees based solely on convenience or family ties is a mistake that often backfires. These roles require financial knowledge, organizational skills, and impartiality. A well-intentioned but unqualified choice can create mismanagement, delays, and even family disputes.

Professional fiduciaries or carefully chosen individuals with demonstrated competence are better suited for these responsibilities. Families that prioritize skill and integrity over convenience ensure smoother transitions and more faithful execution of their wishes.

Neglecting Business Succession

For families with privately owned businesses, estate planning must include succession strategies. Without a clear plan, leadership gaps, ownership disputes, or forced sales can dismantle enterprises that took decades to build.

Effective succession planning involves identifying future leaders, establishing governance structures, and providing financial frameworks to ensure continuity. Families who integrate business succession with estate planning preserve both their economic and entrepreneurial legacy. Those who neglect it risk losing both wealth and identity.

Failure to Address Liquidity Needs

Many estates are asset-rich but cash-poor. Concentrating wealth in real estate, art, or businesses without ensuring liquidity leaves heirs scrambling to cover taxes, debts, or immediate expenses. In many cases, this results in forced asset sales at unfavorable prices.

Planning for liquidity by maintaining cash reserves, life insurance, or diversified portfolios provides heirs with the flexibility they need. Ensuring liquidity prevents unnecessary sacrifices and preserves the overall value of the estate.

Ignoring Charitable Integration

Philanthropy, when handled casually, can become inefficient. Families often donate generously, but without aligning their giving strategies with their estate plans. This oversight can result in the reduction of potential tax benefits and leave charitable intentions unfulfilled.

Integrating charitable trusts, donor-advised funds, or private foundations ensures philanthropy serves both family values and financial efficiency. Charitable planning enhances legacy, reduces tax burdens, and instills stewardship in future generations. Overlooking it is a missed opportunity for both impact and efficiency.

Lack of Communication With Heirs

Another frequent error is withholding estate details from heirs. While the intention may be to avoid conflict, secrecy often breeds confusion and resentment after the fact. Surprises discovered during settlement can spark disputes and create lasting divisions.

Open conversations foster transparency, prepare heirs for responsibilities, and align expectations. Families who embrace communication build unity and trust, while those who avoid it leave behind uncertainty and discord.

Inadequate Attention to International Assets

Affluent families often own property, businesses, or investments abroad. Each jurisdiction has its own unique legal and tax rules, which, if not adhered to, can result in double taxation or compliance penalties. These complexities are easy to miss without proper international estate planning.

Working with advisors experienced in cross-border wealth ensures compliance and efficiency. Proper structuring protects assets while preventing unnecessary complications. Families that disregard international planning risk losing value and complicating transitions for heirs.

Smart Money, Costly Errors: Investment Mistakes Even Wealthy Families Make During Market Downturns

Published On: 08.21.2025

Market downturns often spark fear among investors. Even wealthy families with years of financial experience and access to expert advice can make serious investment mistakes during uncertain times. These errors may seem small, but they can lead to significant losses that hurt short-term liquidity and long-term wealth preservation. This article explores the common investment mistakes wealthy families make during market downturns and how to avoid them. Understanding these pitfalls is key to building more innovative strategies that protect assets when markets are volatile.

 

Selling Investments Out of Panic
 

When the stock market drops, fear often takes over. Even wealthy investors sometimes panic and sell assets too soon. This reaction may seem logical at the moment, but it usually leads to long-term regret. Market downturns are part of the economic cycle. History shows that markets tend to recover over time. Selling during a low point locks in losses and reduces the chance to benefit from a rebound.

Wealthy families should focus on long-term investment goals instead of selling out of fear. Having a plan in place helps reduce emotional decisions. Diversified portfolios built to weather market shifts can also offer peace of mind during rough times. A strong investment strategy should not change because the market drops for weeks or months.

 

Trying to Time the Market

 
One of the most significant investment mistakes during a market downturn is trying to time the market. This means attempting to sell before the market drops and buy again before it rises. The truth is—even seasoned investors and professionals rarely get the timing right. Missing just a few days of strong market growth can deeply hurt long-term returns.

Wealthy families often believe they have enough resources and advisors to help them beat the odds. But market timing is risky for everyone. A better approach is to stay invested and focus on long-term goals. Dollar-cost averaging and rebalancing portfolios regularly can reduce the impact of market swings without the stress of predicting every move.

 

Ignoring Cash Flow Needs

 
Many high-net-worth individuals hold stocks, real estate, and private equity. During market downturns, these assets may lose value or become hard to sell quickly. If wealthy families don’t plan for cash needs, they may be forced to sell assets at a loss to cover expenses, taxes, or emergencies.

A key part of smart investing during downturns is maintaining enough liquidity. Keeping some assets in low-risk, cash-like investments can help meet short-term needs without tapping into long-term investments. This buffer is significant when markets are down and other holdings are temporarily less valuable.

Planning for taxes, real estate costs, and lifestyle expenses can help avoid unwanted sales during downturns. A healthy balance between growth and liquidity is vital, especially when the future feels uncertain.

 

Overweighting Risky or Illiquid Assets

 
Another mistake wealthy families make during market downturns is having too much exposure to risky or illiquid investments. These can include venture capital, private equity, or real estate deals that may offer high returns—but are difficult to sell quickly or revalue during a crisis.

While these investments can boost long-term growth, they should be balanced with more liquid and stable assets. In a downturn, holding too many illiquid positions can limit flexibility and force families to make tough choices under pressure.

A diversified portfolio is not just about owning different asset types—it’s about having various risk levels and liquidity options. A good strategy includes a mix of public and private investments, but not so much that it leaves a family vulnerable when the market drops.

 

Failing to Revisit the Investment Plan

 
Wealthy families may assume their existing investment plan is strong enough to withstand any downturn. But even well-designed strategies need regular updates. Economic conditions, tax laws, and family goals can change over time. Not adjusting the investment plan when new risks appear can lead to missed opportunities or greater losses. It’s essential to examine the entire financial picture during a downturn. Is the portfolio still aligned with goals? Have new risks emerged? Are there more innovative tax strategies to use in a down market?

Market declines can offer chances to harvest tax losses, buy discounted assets, or shift into new sectors. Ignoring these options could mean giving up valuable tools for long-term growth. Families regularly reviewing and updating their investment plans tend to handle downturns with more confidence and less damage.

From Wealthy families' investment mistakes during market downturns, anyone can learn to handle volatile markets more carefully. It’s not about how much money you have—it’s about making intelligent, thoughtful decisions when markets turn negative. Avoiding panic, planning for cash needs, staying diversified, and updating your investment strategy are key to protecting and growing wealth over time.