Being financially resilient has become more important in recent times, due to ongoing shifts in the global economy. Serge Robichaud, a reputable financial planner at Canada Life and Quadrus Investments in Moncton, New Brunswick, believes that financial resilience is about more than avoiding risk—it’s about risk management planning. Building on his extensive knowledge of the economy of Moncton, Robichaud provides guidance to help individuals and businesses create flexible, resilient and profitable financial plans that stand the test of time.
According to Robichaud, the key to becoming financially resilient is by being adaptable. He points out that financial plans should not be static—they must evolve with changes in a person’s life and shifts in the economy. “Financial planning shouldn’t be rigid,’ Robichaud advises. “As your goals, life situation, and even market conditions change, so should your financial strategies.” Robichaud advocates for ongoing reviews and adjustments, especially during major life events or economic shifts, to ensure that clients remain on track to meet their goals, even in times of uncertainty.
One of the first steps in Robichaud’s approach is setting up a solid emergency fund. He believes that an emergency fund isn’t just a safety net—it should be one of the main pillars of a person’s financial plan. For individuals and families, Robichaud recommends setting aside at least three to six months’ worth of expenses, providing a cushion during tough economic times. He also advises small businesses not to overlook the importance of liquidity to handle operational risks and disruptions in revenue flow.
“Clients with an emergency fund are in a position to make better financial choices,” says Robichaud. He urges clients to take an all-encompassing approach towards risk management that incorporates traditional saving as well as investments into different assets. Clients can follow an aggressive approach while assuring that their strategy never fails.
Robichaud knows that the success of small businesses determines the success of the overall economy. “That’s certainly true here in New Brunswick,” says Robichaud. He advises small business owners to remain flexible in their financial planning by prioritizing savings and cash flow management.
“It’s important that these small business owners prepare for market fluctuations by building financial buffers and exploring alternative sources of income.”
By focusing on debt structuring and contingency plans, businesses can remain resilient even during economic shifts. Robichaud encourages businesses to conduct routine financial reviews to adjust to changing circumstances.
He tries to preach the gospel of financial literacy to all of his clients, hoping it will spread further to families in his hometown of Moncton and beyond. He believes that it’s essential for building wealth across generations.
“Teaching families about budgeting, reduction of debts, and how to properly save with compound interest helps stabilize their situation in the future.” He believes that financial education is a key weapon for survival in this world, as it gives people the power to assume control of their lives and pursue success.
With his guidance, Robichaud’s clients have built secure financial futures, ensuring that they are well-equipped to face both opportunities and uncertainties in the economy.
