In the evolving world of wealth management, Nicola Wealth plays a key role in providing strategic solutions to clients across Canada. Over the past 30 years, the firm has been a trusted partner for many entrepreneurs, guiding them through complex business transitions with an integrated financial planning approach. Nicola Wealth addresses each client’s unique challenges, from tax optimization and business succession to charitable giving and estate planning.

One ultra-high-net-worth family experienced the value of Nicola Wealth’s approach when they sold their business after years of working with the firm. During the business liquidation, Nicola Wealth implemented tax mitigation strategies, including the establishment of a donor-advised fund, which allowed them to save on taxes and start building a philanthropic legacy.

Although the family initially made annual donations, they felt their giving lacked meaningful impact. By working closely with Nicola Wealth, they developed a strategic giving plan aligned with their values and long-term goals. This enabled them to structure their giving to maximize both tax benefits and impact, providing multi-year support for causes close to their hearts and offering meaningful assistance to those close to them.

The roots of giving

Nicola Wealth’s commitment to helping clients build lasting legacies has shaped its growth since John Nicola began his career in the financial industry and ultimately founded the firm in 1994. Over the years, John has consistently identified market gaps and challenged the status quo to deliver personalized, multi-dimensional wealth planning. Throughout his journey, John has remained grounded in the values of giving back—values that have been the cornerstone of Nicola Wealth since its inception.

John’s entrepreneurial spirit is reflected in the firm’s focus on building a better, not just bigger, business. Nicola Wealth connects the dots across individual, family and business needs, offering multidisciplinary advice that spans tax, insurance, succession planning and philanthropy. This approach offers clients peace of mind and the freedom to focus on what truly matters to them.

At the heart of this mission is the firm’s “share the pie” philosophy, which means sharing the successes of the business with clients, staff and the greater community. Through this, Nicola Wealth actively contributes to advancing social, economic and health equity for all.

The business of good

“Doing well by doing good” is a concept that has fuelled the firm’s growth, with initiatives like Nicola Wealth Gives Back, which historically has been 3% of the firm’s revenue, to improving communities. Local partnerships with charities such as Canuck Place, BC Children’s Hospital and Vancouver Chinatown Foundation reflect Nicola Wealth’s commitment to supporting causes that matter to its clients and align with its values.

This commitment extends further by helping clients create meaningful legacies. The Nicola Wealth Private Giving Foundation integrates charitable giving with financial and tax planning, offering clients a flexible, tax-efficient donor-advised fund to support causes close to their hearts. Nicola Wealth legacy advisors assist with charity selection and administration, ensuring giving is aligned with clients’ broader financial goals.

Clients at the centre

This focus is part of a larger, holistic approach to managing and growing wealth that goes beyond traditional financial management. The firm’s wealth advisors craft forward-thinking strategies, while offering bespoke solutions and service to high-net-worth individuals and families. A distinguishing aspect of Nicola Wealth is its access to quality private funds, providing clients opportunities to invest in private markets such as private equity, private debt, real estate and infrastructure—diversifying portfolios with the aim of reducing volatility.

The firm also plays a key role in helping families manage wealth and supporting families across generations. Its tailored strategies aim to provide security, foster family harmony and empower clients to feel confident about their financial future. Solutions such as Whole Life and Universal Life insurance help minimize taxes and support the continuity of businesses for future generations.

Nicola Wealth’s approach to delivering exceptional client experiences helps set the firm apart. Its two-advisor model is designed to provide clients with complementary perspectives in financial planning and investment management. This approach fosters continuity, with advisors working collaboratively to deliver personalized service while ensuring smooth transitions as clients’ needs evolve. This model also supports Nicola Wealth’s Employer of Choice ethos, fostering mentorship and professional growth among advisors, ultimately translating into enhanced client experiences.

Next generation leadership

The evolution of Nicola Wealth is driven by a new generation of leaders, including Chris Nicola as President, David Sung as Executive Vice Chair and President of Institutional, and Vanessa Flockton as President of Private Wealth. This leadership team is focused on innovation, addressing client needs, and tackling common frustrations with traditional wealth management, all while staying grounded in the firm’s founding principles.

Guided by the vision of founder John Nicola, the leadership team is committed to delivering an elevated client experience. As the firm expands its national presence and enhances its technological capabilities, they continue to build on the legacy of trust and personalized service. Their forward-thinking approach blends innovation, expertise and community involvement, ensuring the firm stays nimble and responsive in a rapidly evolving landscape.

This leadership team’s focus on technology and growth positions Nicola Wealth to keep delivering tailored advice and personalized service, supporting clients in their efforts to build meaningful legacies while adapting to the evolving wealth management landscape. It’s a vision that honors the firm’s past while boldly stepping into the future, working to raise standards in wealth management across Canada.

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Nicola Wealth Management Ltd. (Nicola Wealth) is registered as a Portfolio Manager, Exempt Market Dealer, and Investment Fund Manager with the required securities commissions. All data as of January 2025.

DID YOU KNOW?

• $16.9B in AUM enabling access to comprehensive investment opportunities.
• Over 550 dedicated professionals committed to providing exceptional service.
• Regional presence across three Canadian provinces, ensuring seamless service for clients with coast-to-coast needs.