InFocus Podcasts

Staying Grounded Through Market Storms

In this special episode of InFocus, Mike Gassewitz, CEO of TriCert Financial Group, discusses the recent market turmoil triggered by political and economic events, notably President Trump's announcements on tariffs and other policies. He is joined by Joel Baker, Chief Investment Strategist, who adds insights on handling market volatility, the importance of maintaining a disciplined investment strategy, and the role of a solid financial plan in navigating uncertain times.
The conversation emphasizes investors' need to stay informed and maintain long-term financial strategies despite market fluctuations.
Recorded on April 7, 2025
 
DISCLAIMER: This content has been prepared by TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. The information, including forecast financial information, should not be considered as advice or a recommendation to investors and does not take into account your particular investment objectives or financial situation. Before acting on any information, you should consider the appropriateness of the information and speak with one of our portfolio managers. All securities and financial products or instrument transactions involve risks, including the risk of adverse or unanticipated market, financial or political developments and, in international transactions, currency risk. This content may contain forward-looking statements, including statements regarding our beliefs on current expectations and market conditions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. does not undertake any obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. While due care has been used in the preparation of forecast information, actual results may vary in a materially positive or negative manner. Forecasts and hypothetical examples are subject to uncertainty and contingencies outside TriCert Investment Counsel Inc.’s control. Past performance is not a reliable indication of future performance.

Dividends, Growth & Stability: Consumer Staples and Healthcare in Focus

In this episode of InFocus, Mike Gassewitz, CEO of TriCert Financial Group, welcomes Brian Durno, CFP®, CFA®, Chief Investment Officer and Portfolio Manager at TriCert Investment Counsel, responsible for the Consumer Staples and Healthcare sectors. They discuss how these sectors performed, key market trends, and what investors should watch going forward.
As expected, the consumer staples sector remained stable, with steady demand for essential products. While growth was modest, TriCert's selected investments performed well, benefiting from strong profitability and reliable dividend growth. This sector continues to be a key defensive play in uncertain markets.
The healthcare sector saw stronger earnings growth but has faced ongoing market challenges due to regulatory uncertainty and cost pressures. Despite this, TriCert's healthcare investments remain well-positioned, offering long-term value and attractive valuations.
Looking ahead, tariffs and global trade remain potential risks, but both sectors are relatively insulated compared to other industries. TriCert continues to focus on companies with strong fundamentals and long-term resilience.
Recorded on March 5, 2025
 
DISCLAIMER: This content has been prepared by TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. The information, including forecast financial information, should not be considered as advice or a recommendation to investors and does not take into account your particular investment objectives or financial situation. Before acting on any information, you should consider the appropriateness of the information and speak with one of our portfolio managers. All securities and financial products or instrument transactions involve risks, including the risk of adverse or unanticipated market, financial or political developments and, in international transactions, currency risk. This content may contain forward-looking statements, including statements regarding our beliefs on current expectations and market conditions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. does not undertake any obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. While due care has been used in the preparation of forecast information, actual results may vary in a materially positive or negative manner. Forecasts and hypothetical examples are subject to uncertainty and contingencies outside TriCert Investment Counsel Inc.’s control. Past performance is not a reliable indication of future performance.

John Deere: More Than Tractors—A Technology Play

In this episode of InFocus, Mike Gassewitz, CEO of TriCert Financial Group, is joined by TriCert Investment Counsel Portfolio Manager Dave Gill, CFA®, MBA, to discuss the state of the industrials and technology sectors. They discuss how both sectors entered 2025 with high valuations, leading to underperformance relative to the broader market. While fundamentals remain strong, valuation concerns and cautious corporate guidance have tempered expectations.
A major theme in the discussion is the impact of tariffs on industrials and technology companies. Dave shares that nearly 90% of our core picks in these sectors who have reported on their earnings mention tariffs as a key concern. While uncertainty remains, the direct impact appears mixed rather than overtly negative.
John Deere serves as a case study in resilience and innovation. The company has embraced technology, developing a connected ecosystem of agricultural equipment that enhances efficiency and productivity. Despite near-term headwinds from lower commodity prices and potential tariff risks, Deere’s strong fundamentals and strategic adaptability make it a compelling long-term investment.
The conversation concludes with a broader discussion on macroeconomic conditions and the importance of investing in high-quality companies with strong management, diversified revenue streams, and financial stability to navigate market uncertainties.
Recorded on March 3, 2025
 
DISCLAIMER: This content has been prepared by TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. The information, including forecast financial information, should not be considered as advice or a recommendation to investors and does not take into account your particular investment objectives or financial situation. Before acting on any information, you should consider the appropriateness of the information and speak with one of our portfolio managers. All securities and financial products or instrument transactions involve risks, including the risk of adverse or unanticipated market, financial or political developments and, in international transactions, currency risk. This content may contain forward-looking statements, including statements regarding our beliefs on current expectations and market conditions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. does not undertake any obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. While due care has been used in the preparation of forecast information, actual results may vary in a materially positive or negative manner. Forecasts and hypothetical examples are subject to uncertainty and contingencies outside TriCert Investment Counsel Inc.’s control. Past performance is not a reliable indication of future performance.

Financial Sector: Strong Returns, Risks, and Strategies

In this episode of InFocus, TriCert Financial Group CEO Mike Gassewitz speaks with TriCert Investment Counsel Portfolio Manager Lee Grimshaw, CFA®, about the financial sector’s performance and outlook.
They discuss strong returns in banking and insurance, with U.S. financials outperforming Canadian counterparts—primarily driven by stronger U.S. GDP growth. The conversation also covers the potential impact of U.S. tariffs on Canadian financials, portfolio adjustments to manage risk, and future opportunities as mortgage refinancing headwinds subside.
Mike and Lee emphasize a measured, strategic approach over reactionary moves, ensuring portfolios remain well-positioned in a shifting market.
Recorded on February 25, 2025
 
DISCLAIMER: This content has been prepared by TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. The information, including forecast financial information, should not be considered as advice or a recommendation to investors and does not take into account your particular investment objectives or financial situation. Before acting on any information, you should consider the appropriateness of the information and speak with one of our portfolio managers. All securities and financial products or instrument transactions involve risks, including the risk of adverse or unanticipated market, financial or political developments and, in international transactions, currency risk. This content may contain forward-looking statements, including statements regarding our beliefs on current expectations and market conditions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. does not undertake any obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. While due care has been used in the preparation of forecast information, actual results may vary in a materially positive or negative manner. Forecasts and hypothetical examples are subject to uncertainty and contingencies outside TriCert Investment Counsel Inc.’s control. Past performance is not a reliable indication of future performance.

Income Producing Assets: Positioning for Stability

In this episode of InFocus, Mike Gassewitz, CEO of TriCert Financial Group, speaks with TriCert Investment Counsel Portfolio Manager Nicholas Leach, CFA®, about income-producing investments amidst economic uncertainty. They discuss the impact of tariffs on market volatility, interest rate trends from the Bank of Canada and the Federal Reserve, and the effects on the Canadian dollar.
The conversation also covers the evolving yield curve, the resilience of corporate bond spreads, and the continued strength of preferred shares despite global trade concerns.
Nick explains that TriCert is gradually increasing government bond exposure as part of a diversified strategy aimed at managing risk and enhancing portfolio stability.
Recorded on February 20, 2025
 
DISCLAIMER: This content has been prepared by TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. The information, including forecast financial information, should not be considered as advice or a recommendation to investors and does not take into account your particular investment objectives or financial situation. Before acting on any information, you should consider the appropriateness of the information and speak with one of our portfolio managers. All securities and financial products or instrument transactions involve risks, including the risk of adverse or unanticipated market, financial or political developments and, in international transactions, currency risk. This content may contain forward-looking statements, including statements regarding our beliefs on current expectations and market conditions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. does not undertake any obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. While due care has been used in the preparation of forecast information, actual results may vary in a materially positive or negative manner. Forecasts and hypothetical examples are subject to uncertainty and contingencies outside TriCert Investment Counsel Inc.’s control. Past performance is not a reliable indication of future performance.

Global Trade, Tariffs & Market Shifts in the Energy & Materials Sector

In this episode of InFocus, Mike Gassewitz, CEO of TriCert Financial Group, is joined by Grayson Waechter, CFA®, TriCert Investment Counsel Portfolio Manager for the energy and materials sector, to provide an update on market trends and investment opportunities.
The conversation starts with the oil sector, where, despite recent price fluctuations, leading global energy companies continue to deliver strong returns for investors through steady dividends and share buybacks. Moving to the materials sector, Grayson discusses the current volatility in commodity prices and highlights companies with more predictable business models that may offer stability amid market shifts. The discussion also addresses the potential impact of tariffs and global trade policies. With the U.S. relying heavily on Canadian oil, potash, and copper exports, any trade relations changes could have significant consequences. Geopolitical events, including developments in China and Ukraine, also have the potential to influence these markets.
The episode focuses on maintaining diversified, well-positioned portfolios to navigate opportunities and risks in uncertain times.
Recorded on February 19, 2025
 
DISCLAIMER: This content has been prepared by TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. The information, including forecast financial information, should not be considered as advice or a recommendation to investors and does not take into account your particular investment objectives or financial situation. Before acting on any information, you should consider the appropriateness of the information and speak with one of our portfolio managers. All securities and financial products or instrument transactions involve risks, including the risk of adverse or unanticipated market, financial or political developments and, in international transactions, currency risk. This content may contain forward-looking statements, including statements regarding our beliefs on current expectations and market conditions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. does not undertake any obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. While due care has been used in the preparation of forecast information, actual results may vary in a materially positive or negative manner. Forecasts and hypothetical examples are subject to uncertainty and contingencies outside TriCert Investment Counsel Inc.’s control. Past performance is not a reliable indication of future performance.

Quality Amid Uncertainty: Staying the Course in a Volatile Market

In this episode of InFocus, TriCert Financial Group’s CEO Mike Gassewitz and TriCert Investment Counsel’s Chief Investment Strategist Joel Baker, CIM, MBA, dive into the evolving investment landscape as we transition from Q4 2024 into early 2025.
They explore the potential impact of recent U.S. tariff threats—markedly higher than historical norms—on key sectors such as energy and industrials, drawing parallels to economic conditions reminiscent of the Great Depression. The discussion highlights how these tariff threats are sparking volatility across Canada and the U.S., influencing consumer spending, trade dynamics, and market valuations.
Amid the uncertainty, they emphasize the importance of maintaining a disciplined, quality-focused investment approach. They underscore the resilience of financially robust companies with strong dividend histories and earnings growth while cautioning that even these quality names may face short-term volatility. With mixed economic signals—including fluctuating leading indicators, interest rate forecasts, and inflation concerns—Mike and Joel advise investors to stay diversified, remain defensive, and consult with their trusted portfolio manager to navigate these turbulent times.
Recorded on February 18, 2025
 
DISCLAIMER: This content has been prepared by TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. The information, including forecast financial information, should not be considered as advice or a recommendation to investors and does not take into account your particular investment objectives or financial situation. Before acting on any information, you should consider the appropriateness of the information and speak with one of our portfolio managers. All securities and financial products or instrument transactions involve risks, including the risk of adverse or unanticipated market, financial or political developments and, in international transactions, currency risk. This content may contain forward-looking statements, including statements regarding our beliefs on current expectations and market conditions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. does not undertake any obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. While due care has been used in the preparation of forecast information, actual results may vary in a materially positive or negative manner. Forecasts and hypothetical examples are subject to uncertainty and contingencies outside TriCert Investment Counsel Inc.’s control. Past performance is not a reliable indication of future performance.

Tariff Turmoil: Dealing with Uncertainty

In this episode of InFocus, Mike Gassewitz, CEO of TriCert Financial Group, and TriCert Investment Counsel Chief Investment Officer Brian Durno, CFP®, CFA®, discuss the recent tariff threats from the U.S. and their potential impact on Canadian investors. With President Trump briefly imposing, then lifting, tariffs on Canadian imports for 30 days, uncertainty looms over whether they will return.
Brian emphasizes that market uncertainty is inevitable, and investors should be cautious about predictions, especially those claiming certainty. He explains that a disciplined, long-term investment approach—focused on quality holdings—is designed to withstand economic shocks, including trade disputes. Market reactions to the initial tariff news provided insights, but the key takeaway is that volatility is natural, and investors should avoid panic-driven decisions.
The discussion highlights how portfolio construction at TriCert Investment Counsel is built to endure such uncertainties, incorporating high-quality companies and a focus on long-term resilience. Mike and Brian stress that investors should not react impulsively but instead rely on a diversified, well-structured portfolio. Historical trends show that markets adapt, and quality investments tend to recover.
Recorded on February 4, 2025
 
DISCLAIMER: This content has been prepared by TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. The information, including forecast financial information, should not be considered as advice or a recommendation to investors and does not take into account your particular investment objectives or financial situation. Before acting on any information, you should consider the appropriateness of the information and speak with one of our portfolio managers. All securities and financial products or instrument transactions involve risks, including the risk of adverse or unanticipated market, financial or political developments and, in international transactions, currency risk. This content may contain forward-looking statements, including statements regarding our beliefs on current expectations and market conditions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. does not undertake any obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. While due care has been used in the preparation of forecast information, actual results may vary in a materially positive or negative manner. Forecasts and hypothetical examples are subject to uncertainty and contingencies outside TriCert Investment Counsel Inc.’s control. Past performance is not a reliable indication of future performance.

Canadian Banking Insights: A Deep Dive into RBC

In this episode of InFocus, Candis Fitch, CIM®, CIWM, portfolio manager at TriCert Investment Council, is joined by fellow portfolio manager Lee Grimshaw, CFA®, to discuss the financial sector, with a particular focus on the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC). They highlight RBC's impressive performance, including its position as the largest company on the TSX 300 and its significant market cap. The discussion covers RBC's diverse portfolio, global reach, and recent financial results, including a strong quarterly performance driven by acquisitions and growth in various segments. They also address some challenges RBC faces, such as increased provisions for credit losses and economic headwinds in Canada. The episode concludes by comparing RBC's performance to that of other major Canadian banks.
Recorded on December 5, 2024
 
DISCLAIMER: This content has been prepared by TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. The information, including forecast financial information, should not be considered as advice or a recommendation to investors and does not take into account your particular investment objectives or financial situation. Before acting on any information, you should consider the appropriateness of the information and speak with one of our portfolio managers. All securities and financial products or instrument transactions involve risks, including the risk of adverse or unanticipated market, financial or political developments and, in international transactions, currency risk. This content may contain forward-looking statements, including statements regarding our beliefs on current expectations and market conditions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. does not undertake any obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. While due care has been used in the preparation of forecast information, actual results may vary in a materially positive or negative manner. Forecasts and hypothetical examples are subject to uncertainty and contingencies outside TriCert Investment Counsel Inc.’s control. Past performance is not a reliable indication of future performance.

Energy Investments: Balancing Risks, Opportunities, Policies, and Politics

In this episode of InFocus, Mike Gassewitz, CEO of TriCert Financial Group, is joined by Grayson Waechter, CFA®, TriCert Investment Counsel Portfolio Manager specializing in the energy sector. Together, they discuss the state of the oil and gas industry, focusing on the benefits of international diversification with investments in Shell, Exxon, and Chevron.
Grayson discusses the performance of oil and pipeline companies' stocks, which have seen significant gains this year. The increase in stock prices is attributed to healthy margins, dividend expansions, and interest rate cuts, which have driven demand for investments with stable dividend yields.
The discussion covers the impact of U.S. election results, specifically Trump's return, on energy policy and market expectations. Grayson noted that federal support for oil projects could increase, but state-level resistance might still pose challenges.
Recorded on November 13, 2024
 
DISCLAIMER: This content has been prepared by TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. The information, including forecast financial information, should not be considered as advice or a recommendation to investors and does not take into account your particular investment objectives or financial situation. Before acting on any information, you should consider the appropriateness of the information and speak with one of our portfolio managers. All securities and financial products or instrument transactions involve risks, including the risk of adverse or unanticipated market, financial or political developments and, in international transactions, currency risk. This content may contain forward-looking statements, including statements regarding our beliefs on current expectations and market conditions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. TriCert Investment Counsel Inc. does not undertake any obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. While due care has been used in the preparation of forecast information, actual results may vary in a materially positive or negative manner. Forecasts and hypothetical examples are subject to uncertainty and contingencies outside TriCert Investment Counsel Inc.’s control. Past performance is not a reliable indication of future performance.