Raj Lala

July 2019 Issue

There’s no doubt that financials hold a dominant position in the Canadian market, and over the past year, their performance has eclipsed that of Canada’s other two market staples, materials and energy. Therefore, it’s little surprise that this year’s Wealth Professional Canada hotlist is dominated by luminaries from the financial sector.

However, WPC went beyond the major institutions and big banks to also highlight the independent firms that have carved out a niche for themselves and have had a significant impact on financial advisors. On the following pages, you’ll read about leaders who have been overseeing new product launches and innovative ideas and who have served as advocates for the wealth management industry. Collectively, their contribution showcases the current state of the Canadian investment landscape and hint at the potential that lies ahead.

Wealth Professional

Under the direction of Raj Lala, Evolve ETFs has established itself as a leader in thematic ETFs, becoming the first to launch products in several areas. The company’s cybersecurity (CYBR), automotive innovation (CARS), innovation (EDGE) and gender diversity (HERS) ETFs were all firsts in Canada. In April, Evolve also became the first firm to launch a US cannabis ETF with USMJ. Lala’s focus on thematic ETFs has helped carve out a niche for Evolve. “I wanted to focus on thematic ETFs and long-term trends that are going to shape the world and structure products around them,” he told WPC late last year. “That’s how we would differentiate ourselves – and while it’s early, the market has told us we were right.” Indeed, Evolve was Canada’s fastest-growing ETF provider in 2018, topping $400 million in AUM as the year closed.

Source: Wealth Professional Canada

To view the full list and original article, click here.

Tags Canadian finance  Evolve ETFs  Finance  finance industry  Finance industry in Canada  Raj Lala  Wealth Professional