Research

Evidence-based research serves as the core of all of IFIC’s submissions and communications. We draw on Canada’s most respected research bodies to ensure that the research we publish and promote is independent and follows the highest professional standards, including the use of recognized scientific methodologies, rigorous analysis, and ethical principles. .
Working with leading domestic organizations such as the Conference Board of Canada, the Fraser Institute, Calgary School of Public Policy and Montreal Economic Institute and Pollara, as well as global research powerhouses such as PwC and Strategic Insight, our goal is to contribute to policy discussions and create better understanding of the industry through factual analysis.
In addition to IFIC-sponsored research, we promote member and stakeholder awareness of independently produced research such as the ground-breaking work of Montreal-based CIRANO on the value of advice.
Finally, drawing from internal and external data, and drawing from third-party research, we conduct analyses and produce summaries and white papers on topics ranging from international regulatory developments to how advice helps the modest investor.
Featured Documents
This web-based year-end report provides asset and fund sales information for both mutual funds and exchange traded funds for 2018.
(January 23, 2019)The 13th wave of Pollara's telephone survey of mutual fund investors in Canada. The study was initiated to better understand Canadian mutual fund holders, to identify their attitudes, opinions, needs, expectations and behaviours and to track these over time.
(September 26, 2018)The survey aims to understand what financial services clients mean by "advice" and how this may evolve and differ under a variety of circumstances.
(February 28, 2018)The 12th wave of Pollara's telephone survey of mutual fund investors in Canada. The study was initiated to better understand Canadian mutual fund holders, to identify their attitudes, opinions, needs, expectations and behaviours and to track these over time.
(November 22, 2017)This report provides a comprehensive assessment of the full cost of owning mutual funds in Canada and the United States. 2017 update to the 2012 study by Strategic Insight.
(October 4, 2017)(June 7, 2017)
(June 6, 2017)
In August 2016, the Center for Interuniversity Research and Analysis of Organizations (CIRANO) released its latest publication by Claude Montmarquette and Nathalie Viennot-Briot examining the value of financial advice. This document provides a summary of findings.
(March 15, 2017)(October 25, 2016)
(September 15, 2016)
(September 15, 2016)
(February 26, 2016)
(October 16, 2015)
(October 16, 2015)
May 2015 Update to the 2012 study by Investor Economics and Strategic Insight
(June 9, 2015)(June 3, 2015)
(June 3, 2015)