Certified financial planner and licensed Investment Advisor has over $200M assets under management and offers risk analysis, legacy and estate planning, investment comparisons and holistic financial planning
As one of Meridian’s leading Investment Advisors, Certified Financial Planner Alex Jessop is encouraging local investors to conduct a Fall financial and investment review.
“Don’t be afraid to reach out, we’re here to help,” encourages Alex, who, together with Meridian’s team of investment experts and advisors offer personalized financial planning and risk tolerance analysis that he says can be especially valuable during life changes and transitions – like being packaged out for early retirement, the passing of a spouse, starting or selling a business and during times of economic turbulence and uncertainty.
With three branches in Barrie and one in Orillia, Meridian, one of Canada’s largest credit unions, has $5.3B assets under management – and offers holistic private wealth advisor services that many investors may not be taking full advantage of.
“Meridian can help you with your banking and financial planning as a whole, from ongoing financial planning updates, to investments, monitoring and rebalancing your portfolio, day-to-day banking and lending needs – and supporting legacy, estate planning and trusts,” explains Alex, who currently is entrusted with more than $200 million assets under management.
Jessop has deep roots in Simcoe County – and moved to Midhurst almost a decade ago, bringing more than 15 years of financial planning experience. He and his wife, Lauren, who has led the Barrie Public Library as its CEO since 2019, get involved in many local initiatives, including the annual Barrie Dragon Boat Festival, which raises funds for 60 local charities.
Rock Solid Advice, Open and Credible Approach
“In addition to holding his CFP, Alex is also a licensed Investment Advisor, so he supports Meridian clients with a rock-solid, proven track record – alongside a down-to-earth, open and credible advising approach,” says Reg Ratnanandan, AVP Wealth, Meridian. “As a long-time Simcoe County resident, Alex also understands the complexities related to maintaining and owning multiple properties, cottage investments, and business ownership and succession,” says Reg.
Alex welcomes inquiries from people who, concerned about recent economic volatility, are interested in having an expert “take a second look at their existing financial game plan and investments to talk through their current risk analysis and possible alternate scenarios and options.”
“Meridian offers advanced financial modelling for our clients, so we can show you different options to consider in a fact-based and easy to visualize way,” says Alex, who offers clients in-person and virtual meeting options. “Right now, we’re seeing new clients who may be overweight in certain areas – and who are benefitting from investment rebalancing and ongoing monitoring,” he says.
The most common financial misstep Alex cautions against is “sitting on the fence.” “It might feel safer, but it’s not a smart financial strategy because sitting on the sidelines equates to losing money, and there are other low-risk options that can put your money to work for you,” he says.
“You know, in Canada, we don’t always talk about money and investments as openly and as often as we should,” sums up Alex. “My clients always tell me that they’re glad they set aside some time to talk through their financial goals, plans and fears with me and my team. Getting one-on-one advice and reviewing different financial options in a deeper way helps build confidence that you are optimizing your investments to work best for you and your family.”
Meridian is Ontario’s largest credit union, and one of the largest in Canada. Guided by its purpose to “help you achieve your best life,” Meridian delivers personal, and wealth financial business solutions to over 380,000 Members. Its bold Meridian for Good strategy is aimed at helping people get access to the money and advice they need; plan for a better future that is clean, resilient, and diverse; and be financially confident.
To book a financial consultation with Alex, email him at [email protected].
To learn more about Meridian’s investment and financial planning services, visit meridiancu.ca.