SHAMSH MOOSA, CIM ®, Senior Wealth Advisor & Portfolio Manager, The Moosa Group, Scotia Wealth Management, Edmonton. Alberta
SHAMSH MOOSA
“Finding solutions to problems and
providing peace of mind is what excites me”
Around the age of 18, Shamsh Moosa, Senior Wealth Advisor and Portfolio Manager for The Moosa Group at Scotia Wealth Management started on a path to help people achieve financial well-being. “During university, I developed a passion for finances. To better understand the markets, I pursued studies in economics and political science, considering them the best areas for my growth.”
By the age of 22, Shamsh had graduated from university and found himself faced with the prospect of managing others’ finances. Despite feeling hesitant about assuming such significant responsibilities at a young age, Shamsh turned down a rookie advisor role and sought a ground-up learning opportunity.
“Surprised by my decision, the branch manager contacted me three weeks later with an opportunity to join a team. They were aware of my long-term goal to become a Wealth Advisor and Portfolio Manager and agreed to mentor me. To this day, they continue to be my mentors, providing guidance and support, and have become like family to me.”
After 18 months of absorbing knowledge on managing money, handling clients, and industry standards, Shamsh’s mentors encouraged him to venture out on his own. “Expressing confidence in my capabilities as a Wealth Advisor and Portfolio Manager, I took the leap of faith in starting my solo journey.”
“Interestingly, the first day I started on my own coincided with the collapse of Lehman Brothers, marking a challenging but significant chapter in my career,” he says. Navigating the hurdles of this tumultuous time became a defining experience for Shamsh, showcasing his resilience and ability to thrive amidst adversity.
“I managed to grow my business during this turbulent period, realizing that if I could navigate this market at its worst, I could handle anything. Each year has brought more growth to my business, leading me to where I am today.”
“I have a unique business that stands out from most other Wealth Advisors”
Shamsh prides himself on distinguishing his business in many ways. “I firmly believe that wealth management goes beyond merely buying and selling stocks and bonds,” he says. “Managing a client’s everyday needs involves aspects of wealth transition, banking, estate planning, and insurance planning.”
Despite the current prevalence of wealth management, Shamsh highlights “It has been a strong offering from the beginning. However, 18 years ago, we would onboard clients into the private banking channel collaborating with a private banker and Financial Planner to address the daily challenges faced by business owners or physicians.”
“Today, what truly excites me is finding solutions to problems, as there is no shortage of financial challenges people face daily. Being someone who can provide comfort, peace of mind, and solutions is what I strive for in assisting my clients at any stage of their journey.”
As a Senior Wealth Advisor and Portfolio Manager, Shamsh identifies his strengths in a robust work ethic and a background that instilled the value of hard work and earned achievements. “I attribute much of my success to understanding that hard work leads to tangible results.”
Emphasizing this principle in his parenting approach, Shamsh says “I have two boys, and one of them recently tried out for a hockey team. During that tryout, I emphasized that putting in the hard work is crucial, and not everyone will make the team—such is the reality of life. He had an impressive tryout and made the team, and while I was proud of his accomplishment, my greater pride lay in the dedication and effort he put into the process.”
In his interactions with clients, Shamsh extends genuine care beyond financial discussions, expressing kindness and support in their day-to-day lives. Whether conversations involve personal trips, children, or health matters, he dedicates his time to listening and creating lasting professional relationships.
“This connection transcends a salesperson-client dynamic, and I emphasize building trust and forging a lasting relationship, starting from the onboarding process. I do not take this trust for granted, as the ultimate compliment is when a client refers to their friend or family, signifying the importance of trust in our relationship, which holds great significance for me.”
The Impact of Comprehensive Support on Family and Generational Wealth
“Currently, we are witnessing a market seeking guidance,” Shamsh says.
Discussing the evolution of his client market, which initially targeted business owners and medical professionals, such as dentists and doctors, he says “Over time, I have noticed a shift, particularly in the baby boomer generation, where individuals are either selling their business or undergoing wealth transitions.”
“What preoccupies many of our clients, especially at night, is concern for their children. From my perspective, I strive to find ways to alleviate their stress and provide peace of mind.”
Further, Shamsh notes “Affluent business owners who have sold or transitioned their businesses are seeking support in establishing wealth across multiple generations.”
This shift in focus has resulted in a growing number of referrals, primarily from existing clients who have experienced the comprehensive support and guidance offered by Shamsh during this intricate process. “Their comfort in the structured approach to family and generational wealth has led them to recommend my services to others grappling with concerns about their children and grandchildren, emphasizing the importance of seeking advice from someone like me.”
Thinking back to a time when financial matters became complicated, Shamsh mentions, “There is a family I have been working with since the beginning, and like every client, they hold a special place in my heart. They encountered a significant challenge when the family lost their father and husband to cancer.”
“Throughout this difficult time, I provided support, guiding the spouse and children so they would not have to worry about financial matters, legalities, or any other concerns. It was a continuous commitment that spanned years. They remain a prominent business family that always acknowledge the assistance I provided during a tragic event.”
“The genuine love I have for my clients, particularly in moments like these, is what excites me to come to work. Knowing that I can help them navigate challenging times and establish a reliable relationship is a source of immense satisfaction.”
Maintaining Passion, Both Personally and Professionally
Shamsh finds balance in his life by engaging in activities that bring him joy and relaxation. “Whether it is watching the kids engage in sports, travelling with the family, playing golf, or occasionally enjoying a game of tennis, these activities serve as my means of destressing in our often hectic world,” he says.
Looking into the future, Shamsh expresses an aspiration to leave a lasting legacy both personally and professionally. “I make it a priority to give back to various causes whenever possible,” he says. “Given that both of my kids are asthmatic and have benefited from the Stollery Children’s Hospital, I focus on supporting this institution. Instilling this value in my children and teaching them the importance of giving back is something I aspire to do as well.”
“On a professional level, I consistently strive to be the best in my field, taking pride in my craft,” he says. “Even after being in the business for 18 years, I still feel like I am at the beginning – maintaining the same passion I had when I started. The privilege of managing clients’ wealth and life savings is not lost on me, and it is something I will never take for granted.”
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Shamsh Moosa, CIM®
Senior Wealth Advisor & Portfolio Manager
The Moosa Group | Scotia Wealth
10220 103 Ave NW Suite 2100
Edmonton, Alberta T5J 0K4
780 - 421 - 5010
® Registered trademark of Bank of Nova Scotia, used under license. Scotia Capital Inc. is a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund and the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada. For more information visitscotiawealthmanagement.com. The Moosa Group is a personal trade name of Shamsh Moosa.