A word from Key Media
Malcolm Muthulingum Chief Executive Officer LEAP Legal Software Canada
2025 Sponsors
Canadian Law Department of the Year
Always one of the most eagerly anticipated events in the legal calendar across Canada, this year’s Canadian Law Awards promise to be an extra special occasion. The Canadian Law Awards will make their return in 2023 as an in-person event, welcoming legal professionals from the length and breadth of the country to Toronto’s Liberty Grand on May 11 for the live gala. The event will see the best and brightest of Canada’s leading firms, in-house legal teams, lawyers, deals, and cases recognized for their exceptional achievements throughout within 2022.
Event Partner
Award Sponsors
Official Ballot Accountants
Organizer
more
Female Trailblazer of the Year (Academia & In-House)
RIA Team of the Year (10 Advisors or More)
DEI Trailblazer of the Year
Asset Manager of the Year
The Park Avenue Securities Award for CEO of the Year
Capital Markets Deal of the Year
WealthTech Provider of the Year
Advisor of the Year - Alternative Investments
RIA Firm of the Year
Advisor of the Year (Regional - Mid-West)
Celebrating excellence in the legal profession
The Canadian Law Awards, supported by event partner, LEAP Legal Software, is returning as an in-person event on May 11, with some of the leading names in the legal profession vying for the top prizes
The team at InvestmentNews is proud to present the InvestmentNews Awards 2025, celebrating the individuals and organizations setting new standards in the financial advice industry. As the voice of independent financial advice for over two decades, InvestmentNews is committed to delivering essential news, analysis, and perspectives that help advisors navigate an ever-evolving landscape. And now, we honor those leading that evolution. In a year marked by economic uncertainty, shifting interest rates, and the largest intergenerational wealth transfer in history — estimated at over $84 trillion — advisors have shown remarkable resilience and growth. With average asset growth nearing 19%, and firms accelerating investments in fintech and diversity initiatives, the industry is transforming at pace. Our Excellence Awardees embody the very best of this momentum. They are leaders who refuse to settle, innovators who challenge the status quo, and dedicated professionals who put clients at the heart of everything they do. We now celebrate their bold vision, unwavering commitment, and the impact they continue to make in shaping the future of financial advice. Thank you to our judges, sponsors, and everyone who submitted nominations. We’re delighted to have you with us as we recognize the talent and vision shaping the future of financial advice.
RIA Team of the Year (Under 10 Advisors)
Excellence in Philanthropy and Community Service
Lifetime Achievement in the Wealth Management Industry
Wholesaler of the Year
The Canadian Law Awards team would like to thank all those who took the time to submit nominations, and extend our gratitude to the judges who diligently reviewed the files to select the prestigious list of final winners. Winners and Excellence Awardees will be honoured at the live event, a fitting occasion for key members of the legal profession to celebrate the achievements of their friends, colleagues, and peers throughout a remarkable year. Be sure to reserve a table and join us for what’s sure to be an unmissable evening bringing together legal professionals from across Canada to celebrate, connect, and raise a glass in honour of the profession’s outstanding work within 2022. Visit www.lawawards.ca or contact events@keymedia.com for table reservations or sponsorship opportunities. Canadian Lawyer, Lexpert, and Key Media congratulate each of this year’s Excellence Awardees, listed in the following pages.
Alison Harnick
Chris Vollmershausen
Yonni Fushman
Paul Fruitman
Frédéric Duguay
Vincent de l’Étoile
Martin K. Denyes
Bindu Cudjoe
Lindsay Cox
Kara Valentine
Brian Thompson
Darren Tedesco
Karin Levi
Lindsey Lewis
Hossein Kazemi
Cheryl Evans
Chet Bennetts
Thank you to our esteemed judges for lending their time and expertise to help recognize and celebrate excellence in the wealth management profession.
2025 Judging Panel
LEAP is a cloud-based legal practice productivity solution that enables law firms to streamline their processes while increasing the firm’s productivity and profits. Law firms using LEAP software enjoy the benefits of a practice management system, legal AI solutions, matter-based legal accounting, document assembly and management, and legal publishing assets in one integrated solution. Website: leaplegalsoftware.ca
Kara Valentine Managing Director, HNW and RIA Strategy The Rudin Group
Brian Thompson Clinical Professor of Economics, Director of the Economics Undergraduate Program, Richard H. Driehaus College of Business DePaul University
Darren Tedesco Co-Founder and President Advisor360°
Karin Levi Global Head of Financial Services Marketing LinkedIn
Lindsey Lewis Managing Director & Chair Center for Women in Financial Services | Institute for Learning Innovation The American College of Financial Services
Hossein Kazemi, Ph.D., CFA Managing Director KSG Capital Management, LLC
Melanie McGrath
Blair McCreadie
Dale H. Lastman, C.M.
Arun Krishnamurti
Lynn Korbak
Kevin Kiley, KC
Warren M. Katz
Philippe Johnson
Monique Jilesen
James A Grange
Sharon Haward-Laird
Chet R. Bennetts, PhD, CFP®, CLU®, ChFC®, CLF®, RICP® Assistant Professor of Financial Planning and CFP®/ChFC® Program Director The American College of Financial Services
Cheryl L. Evans Director, MI Finance Milken Institute
A word from our event partner
The OSAIC Award for NextGen Advisor of the Year
Advisor of the Year – ESG/Responsible Investing
The Independent Financial Group Award for Advisor of the Year (Regional-West)
Supporting Organization
Official Media
John G. Murphy
Nizam Hasham
Steven Ngo
Benjamin Na
Kene Ilochonwu, K.C
Benoit Palmer
Lorne O’Reilly, KC
Karrin A. Powys-Lybbe
Heather Platt
Bruce Reynolds
Clifford G. Proudfoot, KC
Emmanuel Pressman
Shara Roy
Bo Rothstein
Patrice Walch-Watson
Mitch Kowalski
Conni Gibson
Bryson A. Stokes
Christopher Lemon
David M. Kramer
François Lajeunesse
Jennifer Teskey
Kristin Taylor
Marisa Wyse
Andrea Wood
Yola Ventresca
Caroline Zayid
Danielle Young
Prudential Advisors supports the professional growth of more than 2,800 financial advisors and fee-based financial planners, throughout the U.S. Through a combination of dedicated local leadership, centralized expertise, and an advanced technology platform, these professionals are equipped to deliver tailored, comprehensive financial advice to meet each client's unique financial needs, across investments, risk management, and retirement income planning. Website: https://advisors.prudential.com/
Photobooth Sponsor
Park Avenue Securities is The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America’s broker-dealer and corporate Registered Investment Advisor, offering clients an expanded suite of products and solutions to help them achieve well-being. With more than 2,400 registered financial advisors, the firm’s Assets Under Management surpassed $58 billion as of year-end 2024. Website: www.parkavenuesecurities.com
Award Sponsor
Osaic, Inc. ("Osaic"), a portfolio company of Reverence Capital Partners, is one of the nation's largest providers of wealth management solutions, supporting approximately 11,000 financial professionals. Osaic's mission is to empower entrepreneurial advisors to build thriving businesses and fulfill their clients' dreams. Visit www.osaic.com to learn more.
Advisor of the Year (Regional - Northeast)
Advisor of the Year (Regional - Southeast)
Most Innovative Use of WealthTech
DEI Organizational Effort of the Year
Associate Sponsor
We have a proud 110-year history of helping Canadian organizations thrive. Our 7,300+ partners and staff are located coast to coast and bring their expertise to provide quality services and products that help solve important problems. Our industry-focused professional services include audit and assurance, tax, deals and consulting targeting solutions for cybersecurity, privacy, financial crime, workforce of the future, finance transformation, value creation, strategic reassessment and cost optimization. We work as one firm to bring different perspectives and capabilities together to achieve what matters most. With offices in 155 countries and more than 284,000 people, we are among the leading professional services networks in the world. We deliver the best of our collective thinking, experience and solutions to build public trust and create value for our people, clients and communities. Website: www.pwc.com/ca/en.html
Dye & Durham is one of the world’s largest legal software providers. Our software helps law firms do more with less effort, get paid faster, and make better decisions with confidence. From intake to invoice, and everything in between. Dye & Durham has everything you need to run your legal practice. Website: www.dyedurham.ca
Independent Financial Group, LLC (IFG) is a privately held, independent broker-dealer headquartered in San Diego, CA. For over 22 years, IFG has delivered exceptional support and service to financial advisors in a truly independent environment. The firm offers personalized resources—including branding, marketing, education, practice development, and succession planning—designed to help advisors grow their practices and serve clients more effectively. IFG fosters a family-oriented, call-center-free culture where service is never compromised. The firm is also deeply committed to community impact, with ongoing charitable support for youth and families across Southern California. Known for its consistent growth, IFG supports more than 600 independent financial professionals in over 400 offices nationwide. In Financial Advisor's 2025 IBD Review & Ranking, IFG was ranked #15 among all independent broker-dealers and #2 among privately held firms based on gross revenue. In 2024, Financial Planning Magazine ranked IFG #3 for women as a percentage of producing representatives and #7 for financial advisor payout. Additionally, InvestmentNews named IFG a 5-Star Broker-Dealer and placed the firm in the top 10 for both payout and account assets in 2024. IFG is an eight-time winner of the Inc. 5000 list of Fastest Growing Private Companies in the US. Locally, the San Diego Business Journal ranked IFG #7 among the Largest Private Companies in San Diego. Website: https://www.ifgsd.com/
Social Media Sponsor
Cambridge is a financial solutions firm focused on serving independent financial professionals and their clients while preserving its internal control. Cambridge offers a broad range of choices for independent financial professionals regarding solutions for advice, growth, technology, and independence. Cambridge’s national reach includes: Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc. – a large corporate RIA; and Cambridge Investment Research, Inc. – an independent broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC, that is among the largest internally controlled independent broker-dealers in the country. Website: joincambridge.com
Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP is a member of Norton Rose Fulbright, a global law firm providing the world’s preeminent corporations and financial institutions with a full business law service from offices across Europe, the United States, Canada, Latin America, Asia, Australia, the Middle East and Africa. Website: nortonrosefulbright
Red Carpet Sponsor
TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2025 | EDISON BALLROOM, NEW YORK
Agenda
Attire: Formal (Tuxedo/Suit/Evening Gown/Cocktail Dress, Traditional Attire) VENUE: Edison Ballroom 240 W 47th Street New York, NY 10036
6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Cocktail Reception
7:30 PM to 10:00 PM
Awards Ceremony and Dinner Banquet
10:00 PM onwards
Post-Awards Celebration
Menu
Appetizer Kale Salad Blend Main Course Prime Striploin & Grilled Chicken Supreme Duo Vegetarian & Vegan Spiced Roasted Cauliflower, Moroccan Style Chickpea Cous Cous Pilaf, Seasonal Vegetable and Spiced Coconut Sauce Dessert Vanilla Bean Crème Brulee Coffee & Tea
Hosted By Melissa Leong Personal Finance Expert, National Media Personality and Bestselling Author
Entertainment
Music By Ascension Groove Party Band
MAY 7, 2025 METRO TORONTO CONVENTION CENTRE
6:00 PM
7:30 PM
10:30 PM
Post-Party Celebration
METHODOLOGY
ENTERTAINMENT
AWARD CATEGORIES
SPONSORS
MENU
AGENDA
GALLERY
JUDGING PANEL
Excellence Awardees
Awards In Order of Presentation
Advisor of the Year (Regional - Southwest)
The Thrivent Award for Employer of Choice
Managing Partner of the Year
Find out more
Winners Using a simple points system to aggregate judges’ votes, the excellence awardee with the top score in a category is named the winner. Winners will be announced at the awards show on June 24, 2025 and on the website. They will be promoted in InvestmentNews. Promo packages to leverage your achievement across your marketing and promotions will be available for purchase.
Judging All submissions from the excellence awardees were forwarded to the independent judging panel comprising industry leaders and senior representatives. The panel will assess and vote for their winners in each category according to the relevant category criteria. Voting commenced in May 2025 and the judgment will be impartial, balanced, incisive, and fair. Any judge with a conflict of interest in a category recused themselves from judging that category.
Excellence Awardees Once all nominations were considered and research was complete, excellence awardees were selected in each category (except the Lifetime Achievement category) and notified via e-mail or phone. All excellence awardees were then invited to complete a detailed submission, which was an opportunity to address the category criteria in more detail. All submissions remained confidential unless otherwise marked and were not shared with any third parties other than the judges. Excellence awardees were officially announced in April 2025 on the event website and promoted in InvestmentNews magazine and online channels. Promo packages to leverage achievements across marketing and promotions were made available for purchase.
Research The InvestmentNews Awards team conducted research and drew on knowledge and information gained through InvestmentNews to support and supplement nominations received and to ensure that no one deserving of recognition was missed. Excellence awardees were determined from both pools of information.
Nominations The call for nominations was open to all wealth management professionals and organizations – including financial advisors, advisory brokerages, BDMs, fund providers and service providers – from across the USA. Nominations were open from December 2, 2024 to March 14, 2025 at 11:59 pm ET.
Methodology
Female Trailblazer of the Year (Private Practice)
Regional Law Firm of the Year - Quebec
Regional Law Firm of the Year - Western Canada
Regional Law Firm of the Year - Central Canada
Litigation and Dispute Resolution Boutique Firm of the Year
Pro Bono Initiative of the Year
Insolvency and Restructuring Deal of the Year
Check out our gallery for some of our favourite memories as we celebrated the best and the brightest of Canada’s legal profession.
What happened at the 2024 Canadian Law Awards
M&A Deal of the Year
Female Trailblazer of the Year (In-House Counsel)
Regional Law Firm of the Year - Atlantic Canada & Prairies
Litigation & Dispute Resolution Boutique Law Firm of the Year
The LEAP Legal Software Award for Family Law Firm of the Year
Diversity Initiative of the Year
Mid-Market Deal of the Year
Boutique Law Firm of the Year
Litigator of the Year
The Dye & Durham Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Legal Profession - Private Practice
The Dye & Durham Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Legal Profession - In House
Law Department Innovation
The Lincoln Alexander School of Law Award for Shaping the Future
The LEAP Legal Software Award for Best Use of Technology in a Law Firm
The Lawson Lundell LLP Award for Law Department Leader of the Year
Commercial Litigation Team of the Year
Banking & Financial Services Law Department of the Year
The Singleton Urquhart Reynolds Vogel LLP Award for Construction, Infrastructure and Transportation Law Department of the Year
Infrastructure and Projects Deal of the Year
Associate Sponsors
What happened at the 2024 InvestmentNews Awards
Mercer Advisors is a leading national RIA supporting more than 33,000 clients with a “family office for your family” model. We've built an RIA platform that represents what clients and advisors truly need. It’s an environment where advisors can thrive, clients receive exceptional service, and firms can unlock growth potential. We integrate the personalized touch of a boutique firm with the expansive resources of a national enterprise designed around supporting you. Disclosure: Company statistics as of February 28, 2025 Mercer Global Advisors Inc. is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission and delivers all investment-related services. Website: https://www.merceradvisors.com/
Thrivent is a Fortune 500 diversified financial services organization offering advice, investments, insurance, banking and generosity programs and solutions to millions of clients nationwide. Founded more than 120 years ago, Thrivent helps people use their money as a tool to lead a life of higher purpose. In addition to providing purpose-based financial advice, Thrivent supports and amplifies clients’ generosity efforts. This unique approach to generosity has created a ripple of positive impact in local communities – something unique among Fortune 500 companies. In 2023, Thrivent and its clients raised and donated more than $300M through Thrivent’s generosity programs while volunteering 14M hours in the communities where they live and work. Website: www.thrivent.com
Broker-Dealer/Custodian of the Year
Apriem Advisors is an advisory firm dedicated to multigenerational wealth management, offering a range of services including retirement planning, investment strategies, estate and financial planning, and charitable services. We prioritize exceptional client service by maintaining a low staff-to-client ratio, ensuring that every client is treated with the care and attention of family. Website: https://www.apriem.com/
Signature Carpet Sponsor
Launched in April 2023, GoVeyance is a dynamic conveyancing solution that has experienced rapid growth driven by fair pricing and client-focused innovation. Following a strategic investment from Teranet, GoVeyance is now positioned to scale with impact and continue to support legal professionals in British Columbia. Website: https://goveyance.com/
Stockwoods LLP is a premier litigation boutique, excelling in high-stakes commercial litigation, all forms of regulatory and administrative matters, and sophisticated criminal litigation. Renowned for top-quality lawyering, Stockwoods' lawyers are go-to courtroom litigators and trusted advisors, adept at solving their clients’ problems, both in and out of the public eye. Website: https://stockwoods.ca
CN powers the economy by safely transporting over 300 million tons of natural resources, manufactured products, and finished goods throughout North America annually. With its 20,000-mile rail network and transportation services, CN connects Canada’s coasts with the U.S. Midwest and the U.S. Gulf Coast, contributing to sustainable trade and the prosperity of the communities in which it operates since 1919. Website: https://www.cn.ca/en/
The Dye & Durham Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Legal Profession – Private Practice
George Cooper, KC
Nicholas Cerminaro
Bruce Chapple
Peter Castiel
Michael Casey
Stephen Beney
Jacqueline Beckles
Josianne Beaudry
Attire: Formal (tuxedo/business suit/long gown/cocktail dress) Parking: The venue offers complimentary parking you will be directed to the parking lot on arrival
Performer Bella Magic
Performer Lollipop Lyra
Band Soulfire
Host Patricia Jaggermauth
Host Gregg Greenberg
Performer Ring Jedi
Performer Neon Circus NYC dancers
APPETIZER: Vine Ripened Tomato, Cucumber and Arugula Saladwith Feta Cheese and Red Wine Dressing (V) (GF) ENTREE SELECTION (with a Silent Vegetarian Dish): Individual Filet Mignon with Bordelaise Sauce served with Scalopped Potatoes and Grilled Asparagus Roasted Wild Salmon with Asparagus Sauce served with Provecal Baked Tomato and Roasted Fingerling Potatoes DESSERT SELECTION: Individual Apple Cobblers With Caramel Sauce (V) Chocolate Mousse Cake (V)
Retirement & Planning Editor and Multimedia Anchor Gregg Greenberg joined InvestmentNews as multimedia anchor and retirement & planning editor after spending the past four years as the GM of Media at the C-Suite Network. Prior to these positions, Gregg was the lead anchor and personal finance writer at TheStreet for more than 13 years where he interviewed CEOs, fund managers, professional athletes, entrepreneurs and bestselling authors. He also hosted ‘The Real Story’ podcast at TheStreet and wrote the widely read column ‘The Five Dumbest Things on Wall Street This Week’. Before reporting and writing at TheStreet, Gregg worked in sales at Lehman Brothers and Fleet Bank. (May they both rest in peace.) He received his MBA at Cornell’s Johnson School and holds an undergraduate degree in history from Amherst College. Outside of journalism, Gregg wrote and produced the award-winning independent film Friends and Romans, as well as a several off-off-Broadway plays.
Gregg Greenberg
Illusionary rings spinning, creating illusions and mesmerizing images
Ring Jedi
Acrobatics, flexibility, spinning and circus art
Lollipop Lyra
Girls in matching costumes performing with silks fans
Neon Circus NYC dancers
Regional Law Firm of the Year - Prairies
With a career of more than 20 years as a professional television host & media heavy weight, Patricia Jaggernauth is an EMMY Award Winning & North American award winning television and media personality who is celebrated globally as a beloved and exuberant storyteller of LIVE television. Patricia has a 12 year career as a national TV Weather Anchor & an international Weather Expert covering major storm systems and historic weather occurrences. Patricia has been most notably seen on CP24, Toronto’s Breaking News and CTV, having worked 12 years with Toronto #1 news team and top rated morning show across Canada, on CP24 Breakfast as a beloved co-host, LIVE EYE/remote host, weather specialist & special presentation host (lead host of the star studded Caribbean Carnival for 11 Years, St. Patrick’s Day Parade & International Pride Parade) broadcasting to millions of viewers across the nation and online. She has also been seen on CTV’s Your Morning as a Co-Host & Weather Presenter broadcasting to millions of viewers across the nation as well as CTV Toronto as a Weather Specialist.
EMMY Award Winning & North American award winning television and media personality
Patricia Jaggermauth
Soulfire, a dynamic 5 piece band, specializing in Classic Rock, Soul, Motown, Disco and Top 40 hits. Soulfire offers a lively yet sophisticated atmosphere with an unlimited repertoire. Fronted by versatile male guitarists/vocalists, their infectious energy will be sure to keep the dance floor filled and singing along all night!
Soulfire
Alexandra LeGendre and Eman Hillawi are a dynamic aerial duo known for their seamless artistry and breathtaking performances. With over a decade of experience, they have captivated audiences across Canada and internationally, combining strength, grace, and innovation. Together, they create mesmerizing aerial acts that push boundaries and leave lasting impressions. Their deep connection and shared passion for movement make every performance an unforgettable experience.
Dazzling, dynamic, and undeniably captivating, Bella Magic is a world-class circus performer specializing in juggling, contact juggling, and hula hoop artistry—all seamlessly infused with the elegance of dance. With a signature high-energy style, she transforms any event into an unforgettable spectacle, leaving audiences mesmerized with her skill, grace, and charisma. For those seeking show-stopping entertainment, Bella offers breathtaking fire and LED performances, featuring a customizable hologram display—perfect for showcasing company logos or personalized branding in a truly innovative way. Beyond the stage, Bella Magic elevates luxury events with stunning roaming entertainment, adorned in a vast collection of themed couture costumes that blend sophistication with whimsy. Whether gracing a corporate gala, a private celebration, or an exclusive VIP event, Bella brings an immersive, enchanting experience tailored to each occasion. For those who crave the extraordinary, Bella Magic turns events into art—where light, movement, and magic come together in perfect harmony.
Bella Magic
Car Sponsor
Calamos Investments is a diversified global investment firm offering innovative investment strategies, including alternatives, multi-asset, convertible, fixed income, private credit, equity, and sustainable equity. With more than $37.1 billion in AUM, including more than $16.1 billion in liquid alternatives as of March 31, 2024, the firm offers strategies through ETFs, separately managed portfolios, mutual funds, closed-end funds, interval funds, and UCITS funds. Clients include financial advisors, wealth management platforms, pension funds & endowments, foundations, and individuals, globally. Headquartered in the Chicago metropolitan area, the firm also has offices in New York, San Francisco, Milwaukee, Portland (Oregon), and the Miami area. For more information, visit us on LinkedIn, on Twitter (@Calamos), on Instagram (@calamos_investments), or at www.calamos.com
Chicory Wealth is a fee-only registered investment advisor dedicated to helping socially-conscious investors and nonprofits integrate their money with meaning. We offer “Financial Life Planning” services to clients with progressive values, as well as Socially Conscious Investment Management and Shareholder Engagement services - including proxy voting - through Chicory’s proprietary ESG screening process and values-aligned portfolio. Learn more at www.chicorywealth.com.
Destiny Family Office helps wealth creators, wealth inheritors, and their families find solutions to challenges that come from managing significant resources and provides high-impact “single-family-office” services in an integrated, multi-family office setting. They are advocates for investors who, despite significant resources, have not previously had privileged access to sophisticated institutional-caliber alternative, direct or co-investment platforms with broad manager access, underpinned by strong research capabilities. The firm has achieved a deepening national prominence for its niche focus on planning for and managing collectibles as an alternative asset class, helping top-tier collectors and their advisors integrate their valuable collections into all aspects of their wealth management, tax, and estate planning strategies. In 2024, Destiny Wealth Partners was named the InvestmentNews RIA Team of the Year (10 Advisors or More) and Founder and CEO Thomas Ruggie, ChFC®, CFP® was named to the InvestmentNews Hot List of top financial professionals. Website: https://destinyfamilyoffice.com/
Founded in 2006, LourdMurray offers tailored services to clients, including business owners, executives, families, athletes, and entertainers. As a fiduciary, we prioritize client interests, avoiding conflicts while delivering impactful advice, planning, and reporting with an ensemble team-based approach. Website: https://lourdmurray.com/
At the intersection of wealth and health, SEIA Team West offers a uniquely integrated approach to wealth management. We specialize in guiding clients through the financial complexities of aging by combining traditional investment strategies with a deep understanding of senior housing, caregiving, and long-term healthcare needs. Our proprietary Lifecare Affordability Plan® is a healthcare-informed framework designed to support thoughtful decision-making around retirement, long-term care, and legacy planning. By aligning wealth strategies with health-related and real-world caregiving considerations, we empower clients, and their families, to plan confidently and compassionately for the road ahead. Website: https://www.seia.com/
Cocktail Reception Sponsor
About Ashton Thomas Private Wealth Ashton Thomas is a diversified financial services firm committed to a culture of excellence, integrity, and respect in every aspect of its business. Through its various entities listed below, Ashton Thomas serves foundations, businesses, and affluent individuals and families by providing a range of services which include fee-based financial planning and investment portfolio management, retirement plan consulting, securities brokerage, life and health insurance, and income tax preparation. The firm also strives to remain at the forefront of technological innovation and thought leadership within the financial services industry. Ashton Thomas Private Wealth, LLC, (“ATPW”), founded in 2010, and Ashton Thomas Advisors, LLC ("ATA"), founded in 2024, are SEC-registered investment advisers which provide fee-based financial planning, portfolio management, pension consulting, and fund manager selection services. Ashton Thomas Securities, LLC, (“ATS”) is a dually registered entity. ATS registered with FINRA as a broker-dealer in 1984 and provides securities brokerage services. ATS became an SEC-registered investment adviser in 2008 and provides fee-based financial planning, portfolio management, pension consulting, and fund manager selection services. Ashton Thomas Insurance Agency, LLC, (“ATIA”) provides life and health insurance brokerage services. ATIA also provides income tax services through its DBA, Ashton Thomas Tax Advisory. Representatives of the entities listed may only conduct business for which they are licensed, if required, and with residents of the states and jurisdictions in which they are properly registered and/or licensed. Website: https://ashtonthomaspw.com/ About U.S. Capital Wealth, LLC Headquartered in Houston, Texas, with a strategic Texas presence across Austin, Dallas, and Georgetown, as well as offices in New York City, Massachusetts, and Florida, U.S. Capital Wealth LLC (“USCW”) is a premier independent, full-platform Registered Investment Advisor dedicated to delivering institutional-quality financial solutions with the personalized service of a boutique firm. Founded in 2010, USCW was created to empower clients with access to a comprehensive wealth management experience. As a full-platform RIA, USCW offers the best of both worlds — integrating brokerage and advisory capabilities to deliver flexible solutions tailored to each client’s needs. Clients benefit from the capabilities of a large financial institution, while maintaining the personalized, high-touch approach of a boutique advisory firm. USCW's team of seasoned financial professionals brings decades of institutional experience to help clients navigate complexity with clarity and confidence. USCW serves distinguished clientele, including high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth families, business owners, specialized industry professionals, institutions, and municipalities. Comprehensive offerings span investment management, risk mitigation, lending solutions, and fully integrated family office services — all tailored to each client's unique goals. To learn more, please visit: https://uscwealth.com.
James Burton VP - Editorial
Educational Partner
The American College of Financial Services remains the best investment for aspiring professionals, enterprise leaders, and organizations, delivering applied financial knowledge and education, promoting lifelong learning, and advocating for ethical standards for the benefit of society. It’s a mission rooted in history and focused on the profession’s future. Expand your opportunities with us. Website: www.theamericancollege.edu
Manhattan Motorcars Inc. is an award-winning New and Pre-Owned Authorized Retailer for Porsche, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Lamborghini, Koenigsegg, Bugatti, Rimac, Karma, & Lotus located in New York City, since 1995. Our certified Brand Ambassadors are dedicated to the highest level of sales, service, and customer experience.ether to bring the best to you and your clients. through financial advisers. Website: www.bentleymanhattan.com
http://www.bentleymanhattan.com/
Lawson Lundell is a full-service business law firm in Western and Northern Canada known for its practical and strategic approach to legal and business problems. The Firm has more than 200 lawyers located in offices in Vancouver, Calgary, Yellowknife and Kelowna. Website: www.lawsonlundell.com
“As a leading firm in Western and Northern Canada, we are delighted to be involved with an awards ceremony that recognizes outstanding contributions to the legal industry in a diverse range of categories and, particularly, to support the Law Department Leader of the Year award honouring the achievements of in-house counsel department leaders for their accomplishments.”
Lawson Lundell LLP
Canada Infrastructure Bank’s $52 million investment in the Thompson Regional Airport redevelopment project
Canadian Law Firms: McCarthy Tétrault LLP (for Canada Infrastructure Bank), MLT Aikins LLP (for Thompson Regional Airport Authority)
Chiniki and Goodstoney First Nations' energy infrastructure equity partnership with ATCO
Oneida Energy Storage Project
Umicore's investment in Ontario, building an EV battery components factory
BACK
Organizations: Canada Infrastructure Bank, Thompson Regional Airport Authority
Canadian Law Firm: Bennett Jones LLP (for ATCO)
Organization: ATCO EnPower
Canadian Law Firms: Borden Ladner Gervais LLP (for Northland Power), Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP (for Aecon Construction Group), Fogler Rubinoff LLP (for Six Nations), McCarthy Tétrault LLP (for Canada Infrastructure Bank), Torys LLP (for Oneida)
Organizations: Aecon Concessions, Canada Infrastructure Bank, Northland Power, NRStor Inc., Oneida Energy Storage LP, Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation
Canadian Law Firm: Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP (lead; for Umicore)
This award recognises an HR leader who has demonstrated excellence at the executive level over the past 12 months. Eligible finalists were senior-level leaders who report to the CEO and manage an HR team. Finalists were judged on their leadership, communication, strategy, drive and results.
ASSET MANAGER OF THE YEAR
Beacon Capital Management Calamos J.P. Morgan Asset Management Kayne Anderson Rudnick Investment Management Research Affiliates WisdomTree
Ares Wealth Management Solutions Beacon Capital Management Calamos J.P. Morgan Asset Management Kayne Anderson Rudnick Investment Management Research Affiliates WisdomTree
Ares Wealth Management Solutions
J.P. Morgan Asset Management
Beacon Capital Management
Calamos
Research Affiliates
Kayne Anderson Rudnick Investment Management
WisdomTree
Caravel Law LLP
Counter Tax Litigators LLP
Fasken
Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP
Torys LLP
Aecon Group Inc.
BC Ministry of the Attorney General, Legal Services Branch Transportation Major Projects Team (LSB)
CDPQ Infra Inc.
Manitoba Hydro Legal Services
Ontario Infrastructure and Lands Corporation / (“Infrastructure Ontario” or “IO”)
Pomerleau
Transdev
Singleton Urquhart Reynolds Vogel LLP
“As leaders in construction and infrastructure law, we are proud to support and celebrate outstanding in-house legal teams in Construction, Infrastructure and Transportation.”
We are a preeminent Canadian construction and infrastructure law firm. Our peers and clients recognize our lawyers as the best in the construction industry. Over forty years of leadership in Canadian construction and infrastructure law is complemented by a broad offering of legal services in litigation and corporate transactions. Website: www.singleton.com
Alimentation Couche-Tard’s concurrent US$1.5 billion and €1.35 billion notes offerings
Canadian Law Firms: Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP (for the placing agents), Stikeman Elliott LLP (for Alimentation Couche-Tard)
Non-Canadian Law Firms: Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP (for Alimentation Couche-Tard), Simpson Thacher & Barlett LLP (for the placing agents)
Organizations: Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc., J.P. Morgan, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Wells Fargo
Browning West's victory in Gildan Activewear proxy campaign
Canadian Law Firms: Goodmans LLP (lead counsel to Browning West, LP)
Non-Canadian Law Firms: Olshan Frome Wolosky LLP (US counsel to Browning West)
Canada's C$4 billion 10-year Green Bond and additional C$2 billion reopening
Canadian Law Firms: BCF LLP (Government of Canada’s Translation Counsel) Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP (acted for the syndicate of underwriters) Field Law (Government of Canada’s Local Counsel (Initial Issuance and Re-Opening) - NWT and Nunavut), Macdonald and Company (Government of Canada’s Local Counsel (Initial Issuance and Re-Opening) - Yukon), McMillan LLP (lead law firm - acted as sole outside legal advisor to the Government of Canada), MLT Aikins (Government of Canada’s Local Counsel (Initial Issuance and Re-Opening) - Saskatchewan and Manitoba). Stewart McKelvey (Government of Canada’s Local Counsel (Initial Issuance and Re-Opening) - Atlantic Provinces)
Organizations: BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc. (underwriter), Casgrain & Company Limited (underwriter), CIBC World Markets Inc. (underwriter), Desjardins Securities Inc. (underwriter), Laurentian Bank Securities Inc., Merrill Lynch Canada Inc. (underwriter), National Bank Financial Inc. (underwriter), RBC Dominion Securities Inc. (underwriter), Scotia Capital Inc. (underwriter), The Toronto-Dominion Bank (underwriter)
TC Energy Corporation's C$7.9 billion notes offering for Liquids Pipelines business spinoff
Canadian Law Firms: Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP (counsel to TC Energy)
Organizations: RBC Capital Markets, TC Energy Corporation
Non-Canadian Law Firms: White & Case LLP
Dustin Blodgett, Insight Capital Management Harmon Kong, Apriem Advisors Kristin Bartlow, Journey Strategic Wealth Matt Iantosca, Gerber Kawasaki Wealth and Investment Management Michelle Perry Higgins, California Financial Advisors Terry Parham Jr., Innovative Wealth Building Tyler Williamson, Capita Financial Network William Coughlin, Alpha Capital Family Office
Grant Rawdin Wescott Financial Advisory Group
Hannah Moore Amplified Planning
Harlan Fischer Branch Financial Services, Inc.
Heidi Davis Linscomb Wealth
Jordan Toma Prudential Advisors
Lance Knight Ashton Thomas Private Wealth
Shannon Sedgwick Davis Bridgeway Foundation
Shaun McDuffee Twin Oak Advisors
Alstom Group
BC Hydro
Brivia Group
Metrolinx
TransAlta Corporation
VIA Rail Canada Inc
Bank of Montreal's acquisition of Loyalty One's AIR MILES reward business
Canadian Law Firms: Bennett Jones (for Ad Hoc Group of Loyalty Ventures Inc. Lenders), Borden Ladner Gervais (Canadian counsel to Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent), Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP (for Loyalty One), Dentons LLP (counsel to American Express), Goodmans LLP (counsel to the monitor), McCarthy Tetrault (counsel to RBC Investor Services Trust), Stikeman Elliott LLP (Canadian counsel to Bread Financial Holdings Inc.), Torys LLP (for BMO)
Groupe Selection's financial restructuring under CCAA
Canadian Law Firms: Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP (for Investissement Québec, Otéra Capital Inc., and Timbercreek Mortgage Servicing, Inc.), Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP (for Revera Inc., Desjardins, Fonds de Solidarité FTQ, Blackstone and SmartCentres), Dentons Canada LLP (for Laurentian Bank of Canada), Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP (for Scotiabank, CIBC Bank, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP), Norton Rose Fulbright Canada (for National Bank of Canada), Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP (for Groupe Montoni, Royal Bank of Canada), Stikeman Elliott LLP (for Groupe Sélection Inc. et. al.), Woods LLP
Repsol's restructuring
Canadian Law Firms: Bennett Jones LLP (for Repsol Oil & Gas Inc.), Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP (for Landlords to Repsol Oil & Gas Inc.)
Xebec and its affiliates' restructuring under CCAA
Canadian Law Firms: Borden Ladner Gervais LLP (for National Bank of Canada), Goodmans LLP (for Sullair, LLC, the purchaser of Xebec’s California Compression business), McCarthy Tétrault LLP (for Deloitte Restructuring Inc.), Norton Rose Fulbright Canada (for Export Development Canada), Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP (for Xebec)
Non-Canadian Law Firms: Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP (U.S. bankruptcy counsel to Loyalty Ventures), Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP (U.S. counsel to Bread Financial Holdings Inc.), Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP (U.S. counsel to Ad hoc term loan B lenders), Haynes And Boone LLP (U.S. counsel to Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent), Sullivan & Cromwell LLP (U.S. bankruptcy counsel to BMO)
Organizations: Alvarez & Marsal Holdings, LLC (Financial Advisor to LoyaltyOne and Loyalty Ventures), BMO Financial Group, KSV Restructuring, Inc., (CCAA Monitor), Morgan Stanley (Financial Advisor to BMO), Piper Sandler & Co. (Financial Advisor to Ad hoc term loan B lenders), PJT Partners Inc. (Financial Advisor to LoyaltyOne and Loyalty Ventures)
Organizations: Deloitte Restructuring, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Richter
David Fischer, Co-founder
“At Independent Financial Group, we’re proud to support the Advisor of the Year – West Coast award. Celebrating excellence in our industry aligns with our mission to empower top advisors and foster lasting partnerships. Recognizing these achievements is key to elevating the future of independent financial advice.”
Dustin Blodgett Insight Capital Management
Harmon Kong Apriem Advisors
Kristin Bartlow Journey Strategic Wealth
Matt Iantosca Gerber Kawasaki Wealth and Investment Management
Michelle Perry Higgins California Financial Advisors
Terry Parham Jr. Innovative Wealth Building
Tyler Williamson Capita Financial Network
William Coughlin Alpha Capital Family Office
Emily McGrath PIMCO
Gigi Norcross Green Century Capital Management
Jeff Borrowman 1847Financial, LLC
Josh Gongaware First Trust
Joy Harrison Jackson National Life Distributors LLC
DEI TRAILBLAZER OF THE YEAR
Avetta provides a cloud-based supply chain risk management and commercial marketplace platform. Our global solution is uniquely designed to connect the world’s leading organizations with qualified suppliers, driving sustainable growth. We build trustworthy bonds through responsive technology and human insight. Our process is collaborative. Our global reach is complemented by our local expertise. Hundreds of global organizations depend on Avetta to align their supply chains to sustainable business practices, worldwide. Avetta is building the connections that build the world. Discover more at www.avetta.com.
HSBC Bank Canada
Otéra Capital
Scotiabank
Sagard Holdings SE Health Siemens Canada Staples Canada TELUS The University of British Columbia, Allard School and Law and Emerging Media Lab Waste Connections of Canada
OLG Governance, Legal & Compliance Division
CPP Investments
Sagard Holdings
Siemens Canada
Staples Canada
SE Health
TELUS
The University of British Columbia, Allard School and Law and Emerging Media Lab
Waste Connections of Canada
Brandon Dixon-James, Resilient Wealth Management Cary Carbonaro, Ashton Thomas Private Wealth Chad Cooper, Gateway Financial Advisors, LLC Chelsea Ransom-Cooper, Zenith Wealth Partners Colleen Bell, Cambridge Investment Group Markell Byrd, Wells Fargo Sandra Cho, Pointwealth Capital Management Thomas Brigandi, Thomas Brigandi Foundation
Alejandro Behrens, Maximai Investment Partners John Loyd, The Wealth Planner Kim-Ha Nguyen, U.S. Capital Wealth Kirk Badii, Badii Group Private Wealth Management Mark Connely, Wealth Design Group (Park Avenue Securities) Misty Garza, Bogart Wealth Scott Van Den Berg, Century Management Financial Advisors Sofia Hernandez, Thrivent
“Digital transformation is critical for the advancement of the legal profession in Canada, and is central to everything that we do at Dye & Durham. We’re proud to be a partner of the 2023 Canadian Law Awards and to help recognize the impressive innovation and modernization that is taking place in legal departments and law firms across the country.”
Matt Proud, Chief Executive Officer of Dye & Durham
“Lawson Lundell is delighted to sponsor the 2025 Canadian Law Awards. As a leading full-service business law firm in Western and Northern Canada, we are committed to recognizing the outstanding contributions of legal professionals across the industry.”
Brandon Dixon-James Resilient Wealth Management
Cary Carbonaro Ashton Thomas Private Wealth
Chad Cooper Gateway Financial Advisors, LLC
Chelsea Ransom-Cooper Zenith Wealth Partners
Colleen Bell Cambridge Investment Group
Markell Byrd Wells Fargo
Sandra Cho Pointwealth Capital Management
Thomas Brigandi Thomas Brigandi Foundation
Bindu Cudjoe, Laurentian Bank of Canada
Carisa Gordon, Calian Group Ltd.
David Taylor, Corporation of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent
Gassim Bangoura, Birks Group
Laurie Sargent, Indigenous Rights and Relations Portfolio at the Department of Justice Canada
Sarah Qadeer, Deloitte LLP
Sharon Haward-Laird, BMO Financial Group
“Lawson Lundell is delighted to sponsor the 2024 Canadian Law Awards. As a leading full-service business law firm in Western and Northern Canada, we are committed to recognizing the outstanding contributions of legal professionals across the industry.”
RIA TEAM OF THE YEAR (10 ADVISORS OR MORE)
Royal Bank of Canada’s C$13.5 billion acquisition of HSBC Bank Canada
Canadian Law Firms: Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP (counsel to Royal Bank of Canada), RBC Law Group (lead counsel to Royal Bank of Canada), Miller Thomson LLP (counsel to HSBC Bank Canada board of directors), Stikeman Elliott LLP (counsel to HSBC Global
Non-Canadian Law Firms: A&O Sherman, Allen & Overy LLP (UK counsel to RBC), Linklaters LLP (UK counsel to HSBC Global), Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz (US counsel to RBC
Organizations: Royal Bank of Canada
Adams Brown Wealth Consultants Apriem Advisors Bogart Wealth Caprock Journey Strategic Wealth Koss Olinger Opal Wealth Advisors Parcion Private Wealth Procyon Partners TFO Wealth Partners
Ashton Thomas Private Wealth Beacon Pointe Advisors Concurrent Investment Advisors EP Wealth Advisors Homrich Berg Wealth Management Mercer Advisors Merit Financial Advisors NewEdge Wealthcare Wealthspire Advisors
Adams Brown Wealth Consultants
Caprock
Apriem Advisors
Bogart Wealth
Koss Olinger
Journey Strategic Wealth
Opal Wealth Advisors
Parcion Private Wealth
Procyon Partners
TFO Wealth Partners
Signature Estate & Investment Advisors
TradeWinds
U.S. Capital Wealth
Satovsky Asset Management
Powers Advisory Group, LLC
Morton Brown Family Wealth
GRANTvest Financial Group
CovingtonAlsina
Connecticut Capital Management Group LLC
BH Legal
Glaholt Bowles LLP
Green and Spiegel LLP
Hicks Morley Hamilton Stewart Storie LLP (Hicks Morley)
Landings LLP
McLeish Orlando
Borden Ladner Gervais LLP (“BLG”)
Dentons Canada LLP
Lavery
Legate Injury Lawyers
McInnes Cooper
MT>3, a division of McCarthy Tétrault LLP
LEAP is a cloud-based legal practice productivity solution that enables law firms to streamline their processes while increasing the firm’s productivity and profits. Law firms using LEAP software enjoy the benefits of a practice management system, legal accounting, document assembly and management, and legal publishing assets in one integrated solution. Website: leaplegalsoftware.ca
It is an honour to bestow the The LEAP Legal Software Award for Best Use of Technology in a Law Firm. Today, the legal profession stands at a crossroads, where tradition meets innovation. The importance of technology in our field cannot be overstated—it is reshaping how we practice law, access legal resources, and serve our clients. LEAP Canada, nestled at the heart of legaltech, aims to lead this charge by offering solutions designed to enhance the efficiency of delivery of legal services. We are proud to partner with Key Media in supporting the 2024 Canadian Law Awards, where the best achievements in the legal profession are recognized. Congratulations once again on your well-deserved recognition tonight.
Joe Fakhri, President and CEO Axiom Innovations
Borden Ladner Gervais LLP ("BLG")
THE OSAIC AWARD FOR NEXTGEN ADVISOR OF THE YEAR
Amanda Charles, Moxie Wealth Management Christopher Stevenson, Forrest Financial Partners Dinon Hughes, Nvest Financial Gloria Garcia Cisneros, LourdMurray Grace Bossert, Mercer Advisors Jonathon Mason, Farther Finance Patrick Marcinko, Bogart Wealth Riley Saunders, Cassaday & Company, Inc. Sydney Woodward, Yeske Buie Inc.
Aaron Eichenlaub, Chief Revenue Officer, Dye & Durham
Programs like the Canadian Law Awards are an exceptional opportunity to celebrate the hard work, dedication, innovation and achievement of legal professionals in practices and organizations nationwide. We’re proud to be a supporter of the 2024 Awards, and to have the opportunity to recognize both the recipients of this year’s Lifetime Achievement Awards and the entire Canadian legal industry as a whole.
Amanda Charles Moxie Wealth Management
Christopher Stevenson Forrest Financial Partners
Dinon Hughes Nvest Financial
Gloria Garcia Cisneros LourdMurray
Grace Bossert Mercer Advisors
Jonathon Mason Farther Finance
Patrick Marcinko Bogart Wealth
Riley Saunders, Cassaday & Company, Inc.
Sydney Woodward Yeske Buie Inc.
OSAIC
Osaic is proud to sponsor the InvestmentNews Awards as we celebrate the incredible advisors who create meaningful moments with their clients every day. We’re especially honored to champion the next generation of financial advice – believing it should be transformational, not transactional – as the proud sponsor of the NextGen Advisor of the Year category. Congratulations to all the Excellence Awardees!
Legal Aid Alberta
Gale Law Professional Corporation for NCA Network
Norton Rose Fulbright Canada
Graham Hudson, Interim Dean, Lincoln Alexander School of Law, Toronto Metropolitan University
"We are proud to present the Lincoln Alexander School of Law Award for Shaping the Future at this year's Canadian Law Awards. This award fittingly celebrates the legacy of our namesake by recognizing a law firm that has concretely demonstrated a commitment to advancing innovation and inclusion in the legal profession; strengthening access to justice; and investing in legal education for the leaders of tomorrow."
The Lincoln Alexander School of Law is shaping the lawyers of tomorrow and reimagining legal education in pursuit of a more just society. Lincoln Alexander Law students are gaining professional experience beyond traditional legal contexts, enabling them to navigate diverse paths to practice, better serve their clients, expand the reach of justice, and innovate the legal profession itself. Website: torontomu.ca/law/
The winner of this category will automatically progress to become an excellence awardee in Canadian Law Department of the Year
EXCELLENCE IN PHILANTHROPY AND COMMUNITY SERVICE
CI Financial
Dawson Partners
British Columbia Investment Management Corporation (“BCI”)
Fengate Asset Management
TransUnion
goeasy Ltd
Royal Bank of Canada
TMX Group
Fairstone Bank
University Pension Plan
Grant Rawdin, Wescott Financial Advisory Group Hannah Moore, Amplified Planning Harlan Fischer, Branch Financial Services, Inc. Heidi Davis, Linscomb Wealth Jordan Toma, Prudential Advisors Lance Knight, Ashton Thomas Private Wealth Shannon Sedgwick Davis, Bridgeway Foundation Shaun McDuffee, Twin Oak Advisors
Connecticut Capital Management Group LLC CovingtonAlsina GRANTvest Financial Group Morton Brown Family Wealth Powers Advisory Group, LLC Satovsky Asset Management Signature Estate & Investment Advisors TradeWinds U.S. Capital Wealth
The Dye & Durham Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Legal Profession – In-House
THE PARK AVENUE SECURITIES AWARD FOR CEO OF THE YEAR
Adam Malamed, Sanctuary Wealth Andres Garcia-Amaya, Zoe Financial Cammy Smith, Integrated Equity Management David Lau, DPL Financial Partners Greg Raines, TAG Advisors Natalie Wolfsen, Orion Rafael Loureiro, wealth.com Rick Kent, Merit Financial Advisors Terry Rasmussen, Thrivent Thomas Carroll, Homrich Berg Wealth Management
Marianne Caswell, President, Park Avenue Securities
“Excellence in wealth management is about understanding and supporting clients' unique needs, helping them take charge of their financial well-being and, in turn, foster a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life. That’s why Park Avenue Securities is proud to support the InvestmentNews Awards, recognizing financial professionals and organizations across our industry who continually raise the bar for what’s possible.”
Adam Malamed Sanctuary Wealth
Andres Garcia-Amaya Zoe Financial
Cammy Smith Integrated Equity Management
David Lau DPL Financial Partners
Greg Raines TAG Advisors
Natalie Wolfsen Orion
Rafael Loureiro wealth.com
Rick Kent Merit Financial Advisors
Terry Rasmussen Thrivent
Thomas Carroll Homrich Berg Wealth Management
François Grondin Borden Ladner Gervais LLP (BLG)
Peter Aprile Counter Tax Litigators LLP
Grant Vogeli, KC Lawson Lundell LLP
Crawford Smith Lax O'Sullivan Lisus Gottlieb LLP
Monique Jilesen Lenczner Slaght
Sarit Batner McCarthy Tétrault LLP
Boralex Inc. Canada Infrastructure Bank Canadian National Railway Company CDPQ Infra Graham Group Ltd. TC Energy Corporation Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority
Winners of the two sector-specific law department awards will automatically progress to become finalists for this category
Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority
TC Energy Corporation
Graham Group Ltd.
CDPQ Infra
Canadian National Railway Company
Canada Infrastructure Bank
Boralex Inc.
ADVISOR OF THE YEAR (REGIONAL – SouTHweST)
Alejandro Behrens Maximai Investment Partners
John Loyd The Wealth Planner
Kim-Ha Nguyen U.S. Capital Wealth
Kirk Badii Badii Group Private Wealth Management
Mark Connely Wealth Design Group (Park Avenue Securities)
Misty Garza Bogart Wealth
Scott Van Den Berg Century Management Financial Advisors
Sofia Hernandez Thrivent
Craig Ferris Lawson Lundell LLP
Crawford Smith Lax O’Sullivan Lisus Gottlieb LLP
Kimberly Gale Gale Law Professional Corporation
Morgan Camley Dentons Canada LLP
Rob Martz Burnet, Duckworth and Palmer LLP
Sophie Melchers Norton Rose Fulbright Canada
Merit Financial Advisors
Homrich Berg Wealth Management
EP Wealth Advisors
Concurrent Investment Advisors
Ashton Thomas Private Wealth
RIA FIRM OF THE YEAR
Beacon Pointe Advisors
Mercer Advisors
NewEdge
Wealthcare
Wealthspire Advisors
Wagners Law Firm
Thomson Rogers LLP
Stockwoods LLP
Paliare Roland Rosenberg Rothstein LLP
Lenczner Slaght
Lax O’Sullivan Lisus Gottlieb LLP
Adair Goldblatt Bieber LLP
WHOLESALER OF THE YEAR
Emily McGrath, PIMCO Gigi Norcross, Green Century Capital Management Jeff Borrowman, 1847Financial, LLC Josh Gongaware, First Trust Joy Harrison, Jackson National Life Distributors LLC
THE THRIVENT AWARD FOR EMPLOYER OF CHOICE
Bevin Shores Gowling WLG
Duncan Embury Neinstein
Lincoln Caylor Bennett Jones LLP
Mason Poplaw McCarthy Tétrault LLP
Nader Hasan Stockwoods LLP
Peter J. Pliszka Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP
Sandra A. Forbes Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg
Cambridge Investment Group Purshe Kaplan Sterling Investments Research Affiliates RFG Advisory Sanctuary Wealth SEIA – Signature Estate and Investment Advisors SignatureFD Steward Partners Trajan Wealth
Advisor360° Advyzon AssetMark Envestnet FINIAT FusionIQ GeoWealth iCapital intelliflo Jump Kwanti PureFacts Vestmark
SignatureFD
Steward Partners
Trajan Wealth
SEIA – Signature Estate and Investment Advisors
Sanctuary Wealth
RFG Advisory
Purshe Kaplan Sterling Investments
Cambridge Investment Group
-Terry Rasmussen, president and CEO at Thrivent
Supporting the InvestmentNews Awards is an opportunity to celebrate service and excellence in financial services—values that Thrivent champions every day. This esteemed program recognizes the best of the best and Thrivent’s honored to spotlight the people and companies shaping the future of the financial services industry.
Linamar’s acquisition of Mobex Global's Propulsion-Agnostic Business
Canadian Law Firm: Aird & Berlis LLP (for Linamar Corporation)
Non-Canadian Law Firm: Warner Norcross + Judd LLP (US Counsel to Linamar)
Organization: Linamar Corporation
Sagicor Financial Company Ltd.'s acquisition of Ivari
Canadian Law Firms: Stikeman Elliott LLP (for Sagicor), Torys LLP (for ivari)
Non-Canadian Law Firms: Appleby (for Wilton Re Ltd.), Paul Hastings LLP (US Counsel to Sagicor)
Organizations: National Bank Financial (lead financial advisor), J.P. Morgan (financial advisor), RBC Capital Markets (financial advisor), ET (financial and due diligence advisor), RSM (assisted with actuarial diligence), Goldman Sachs (financial advisor to Wilton Re Ltd.), Wells Fargo (financial advisor to Wilton Re Ltd.)
Skyservice's investment in Fontainebleau Aviation's fixed-based operator at Miami Opa-Locka Executive Airport
Canadian Law Firm: McCarthy Tétrault LLP (for Skyservice™)
Non-Canadian Law Firm: Cooley LLP, DLA Piper LLP
Organization: William Blair & Company
Wonderfi, Coinsquare, and CoinSmart business combination
Canadian Law Firms: Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP (for WonderFi), Goodmans LLP (legal counsel to Coinsquare), Wildeboer Dellelce LLP (counsel to CoinSmart)
Non-Canadian Law Firm: Dorsey & Whitney LLP (US legal counsel to WonderFi)
Organizations: Eight Capital Corp. (financial advisor to CoinSmart), Haywood Securities Inc. (financial advisor to WonderFi), Origin Merchant Partners (financial advisor to Coinsquare)
LEAP is a cloud-based legal practice productivity solution that enables law firms to streamline their processes while increasing the firm’s productivity and profits. Law firms using LEAP software enjoy the benefits of a practice management system, legal accounting, document assembly and management, and legal publishing assets in one integrated solution. Website: www.leaplegalsoftware.ca
Joe Fakhri, President and CEO, Axiom Innovations
ADVISOR OF THE YEAR – ALTERNATIVE INVESTMENTS
Brian Glenn, Premier Path Wealth Partners Erick Rawlings, Fiduciary Trust International Jeff Eulberg, Evergreen Gavekal Marti Marache, Harbor Asset Private Wealth Matthew Walker, Fortitude Family Office Nikhil Kumar, Hartree Partners Stephanie Petrosini, Morgan Stanley Thomas Ruggie, Destiny Family Office
ADVISOR OF THE YEAR (REGIONAL – MID-WEST)
Bryan Bibbo, JL Smith Holistic Wealth Management Eva Stukenberg, Thrivent James Hegland, Hegland Mainz Financial Jane LaLonde, LaLonde Wealth Advisor Group Jonathan Smucker, Marietta Investment Partners Sam Huszczo, SGH Wealth Management Susan Sukys, Mosaic Financial Group
Brian Glenn Premier Path Wealth Partners
Erick Rawlings Fiduciary Trust International
Jeff Eulberg Evergreen Gavekal
Marti Marache Harbor Asset Private Wealth
Matthew Walker Fortitude Family Office
Nikhil Kumar Hartree Partners
Stephanie Petrosini Morgan Stanley
Thomas Ruggie Destiny Family Office
Regional Law Firm of the Year - Ontario
Blaney McMurtry LLP Lerners LLP Loopstra Nixon LLP Torkin Manes LLP WeirFoulds
ADVISOR OF THE YEAR – ESG/RESPONSIBLE INVESTING
WeirFoulds
Torkin Manes LLP
Loopstra Nixon LLP
Lerners LLP
Blaney McMurtry LLP
Bud Sturmak, Perigon Wealth Management James Brewer, Envision Wealth Jane Swan, Veris Wealth Partners Jason Britton, Reflection Asset Management Jeffrey R. Kingzett, Ameriprise Financial Maggie Kulyk, Chicory Wealth Nick Cantrell, Green Future Wealth Management
BlackRock Compound Planning Farther Fiduciary Trust International LPL Financial Private Advisor Group Prudential Advisors Raymond James
Bud Sturmak Perigon Wealth Management
James Brewer Envision Wealth
Jane Swan Veris Wealth Partners
Jason Britton Reflection Asset Management
Jeffrey R. Kingzett Ameriprise Financial
Maggie Kulyk Chicory Wealth
Nick Cantrell Green Future Wealth Management
Zenith Wealth Partners
The American College of Financial Services
Janus Henderson Investors
McKercher LLP
McDougall Gauley LLP
Cheryl Graden, TMX Group Corey MacKinnon, Cooke Inc. Gaurav Manhas, OpenRoad Group Heather Mullen, Kenvue Canada Inc. Hina Latif, Mercedes-Benz Canada and Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Canada Corporation (together, “MBCan”) Lorne O'Reilly, Dow Canada Matthew Kuchinsky, Dawson Partners Patricia Caza, The Regional Municipality of Peel Sarah Jacklin, Stryker Canada
Bryan Bibbo JL Smith Holistic Wealth Management
Eva Stukenberg Thrivent
James Hegland Hegland Mainz Financial
Jane LaLonde LaLonde Wealth Advisor Group
Jonathan Smucke Marietta Investment Partners
Sam Huszczo SGH Wealth Management
Susan Sukys Mosaic Financial Group
Delegatus
Langlois Lawyers LLP
WeirFoulds LLP
KRB Avocats | Lawyers
ADVISOR OF THE YEAR (REGIONAL – NORTHEAST)
Langlois Lawyers
Dennis Morton, Morton Brown Family Wealth Garrett Taylor, Coastline Wealth Management Gideon Drucker, Drucker Wealth Gregory Fortier, Centinel Financial Group John Sklencar, Physicians Private Client Group Mark Jones, Fiduciam Financial Michael Lehman, Premier Path Wealth Partners Tim Hamilton, Compound Planning
Dennis Morton Morton Brown Family Wealth
Garrett Taylor Coastline Wealth Management
Gideon Drucker Drucker Wealth
Gregory Fortier Centinel Financial Group
John Sklencar Physicians Private Client Group
Mark Jones Fiduciam Financial
Michael Lehman Premier Path Wealth Partners
Tim Hamilton Compound Planning
Burnet, Duckworth and Palmer LLP
Clark Wilson LLP
Farris LLP
Witten LLP
ADVISOR OF THE YEAR (REGIONAL – SouTHEAST)
Abigail Bennett, Verum Partners LLC Damon Lichtenberger, North Star Resource Group Dave Alison, Alison Wealth Management Gayle Canini, Employee Benefits Administration, Inc. Padric Scott, Crossroad Capital Partners Shannon Reintgen, Koss Olinger Timothy Roark, Koss Olinger Yusuf Abugideiri, Yeske Buie Inc.
Abigail Bennett Verum Partners LLC
Damon Lichtenberger North Star Resource Group
Dave Alison Alison Wealth Management
Gayle Canini Employee Benefits Administration, Inc.
Padric Scott Crossroad Capital Partners
Shannon Reintgen Koss Olinger
Timothy Roark Koss Olinger
Yusuf Abugideiri Yeske Buie Inc.
Hammerhead Resources' business combination with Decarbonization Plus Acquisition Corporation IV, forming Hammerhead Energy
Pembina Pipeline Corporation’s $1.28 Billion Offering of Subscription Receipts
Thoma Bravo's acquisition of Magnet Forensics Inc.
Thomson Reuters’ US$2.2 billion return of capital and reverse-stock-split transaction
Canadian Law Firms: Bennett Jones LLP (for Decarbonization Plus Acquisition Corporation IV), Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP (for the Special Committee of the Board of Directors of Hammerhead Resources Inc.), Burnet, Duckworth & Palmer LLP (for Hammerhead Resources)
Canadian Law Firms: Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP (for Pembina Pipeline Corporation), Stikeman Elliott LLP (for underwriters)
Non-Canadian Law Firms: Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
Accountants: KPMG LLP, RBC Dominion Securities Inc., Scotia Capital Inc., TD Seurities Inc.
Canadian Law Firms: Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP (for Magnet Forensics), Dentons Canada LLP (for Special Committee of Magnet), Goodmans LLP (for Nellore), McMillan LLP (Canadian Counsel for Thoma Bravo)
Non-Canadian Law Firms: Allen & Overy LLP (for the Lenders), Kirkland & Ellis LLP (US Counsel for Thoma Bravo)
Organizations: CIBC Capital Markets (independent valuator to the Special Committee), Morgan Stanley (exclusive financial advisor to the Special Committee of Magnet)
Canadian Law Firm: Torys LLP (for Thomson Reuters)
Non-Canadian Law Firms: Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP (for Hammerhead Resources)
MOST INNOVATIVE USE OF WEALTHTECH
Prudential Advisors
Raymond James
Private Advisor Group
LPL Financial
Fiduciary Trust International
Farther
Compound Planning
BlackRock
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT IN THE WEALTH MANAGEMENT INDUSTRY
The recipient of this award will be announced at the InvestmentNews Awards gala
ADVISOR OF THE YEAR (REGIONAL – SouTHeaST)
Caravel Law KMSC LAW PMP Law Professional Corporation Procido LLP Torys LLP Virani Law
Virani Law
PMP Law Professional Corporation
Angela Yadav HSBC Bank Canada (Royal Bank of Canada)
Ashley Butts BASF Canada
Caroline Healey Transportation Industry
Christine Chen University Pension Plan Ontario
Jana Prete Alberta Investment Management Corporation (AIMCo)
Sara Ross Schulich School of Law, Dalhousie University
Soma Choudhury Onex Canada Asset Management Inc.
Sharon Vogel, Co-Managing Partner, Singleton Urquhart Reynolds Vogel LLP
DEI ORGANIZATIONAL EFFORT OF THE YEAR
Janus Henderson Investors SignatureFD The American College of Financial Services Zenith Wealth Partners
Anne Merminod Borden Ladner Gervais LLP (“BLG”)
Jacqueline Dinsmore Caravel Law LLP
Karen Sargeant Fasken
Karima Kanani Miller Thomson LLP
Katherine Hensel Fogler, Rubinoff LLP
Olga Farman Norton Rose Fulbright Canada
Rima Ramchandani Torys LLP
Tara Vasdani Remote Law Canada
WEALTHTECH PROVIDER OF THE YEAR
GeoWealth
iCapital
FusionIQ
FINIAT
Envestnet
AssetMark
Advyzon
Advisor360°
intelliflo
Jump
Kwanti
PureFacts
Vestmark
Allan Ritchie Loopstra Nixon LLP
Anik Trudel Lavery
Charles Hurdon Norton Rose Fulbright Canada
Jean-François Gagnon Langlois Lawyers LLP
Jeffrey Cohen Torkin Manes LLP
Kevin Kiley McInnes Cooper
McCarthy Tétrault LLP, Action Groups
RIA TEAM OF THE YEAR (UNDER 10 ADVISORS)
Canderel-led Consortium Acquisition of Cominar REIT
Firms: Borden Ladner Gervais LLP (BLG); DAVIES; Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP; McCarthy Tetrault LLP; Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP; Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP; Stikeman Elliott LLP
Organizations: BMO Capital Markets; CIBC; KPMG; National Bank Financial Inc.; Moelis & Company LLC; RBC Capital Markets; Scotiabank
Kinross Gold Corp. acquisition of Great Bear Resources
Firms: Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP; Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP
Kirkland Lake Gold and Agnico Eagle Mines merger of equals
Firms: Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP; DAVIES; Dorsey & Whitney LLP; Fasken Martineau Dumoulin LLP; Shearman & Sterling LLP
Organizations: BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc.; BofA Securities, Inc.; CIBC World Markets, Inc.; Maxit Capital LP; TD Securities Inc.; Trinity Advisory Group, LP
Banks and Accountants: Chess Depositary Nominees Pty Ltd.; Computershare Investor Services Inc.
Rio Tinto acquisition of Turquoise Hill Resources
Firms: Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP; McCarthy Tétrault LLP; Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP; Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP; Sullivan & Cromwell LLP
Organizations: BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc.; TD Securities Inc.; Credit Suisse; RBC Capital Markets; Rothschild & Co
Telus acquisition of LifeWorks
Firms: Clifford Chance LLP; Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP; Stikeman Elliott LLP
Organizations: BMO Capital Markets; CIBC World Markets; Goldman Sachs Canada Inc.
BROKER-DEALER/CUSTODIAN OF THE YEAR
Apex Fintech Solutions Axtella, LLC (BDs: Sigma Financial Corporation and Parkland Securities, LLC) Cambridge Investment Group Goldman Sachs Independent Financial Group, LLC Interactive Brokers LPL Financial Osaic Park Avenue Securities
Osaic
Park Avenue Securities
Interactive Brokers
Independent Financial Group, LLC
Goldman Sachs
Axtella, LLC (BDs: Sigma Financial Corporation and Parkland Securities, LLC)
Apex Fintech Solutions
