John McCord discusses the importance of defining financial goals and responsibilities in his piece discussing Investment Policy Statements (IPS). While not a financial plan, an IPS is a critical component of a holistic financial plan that takes into consideration insurance, estate, and retirement planning. Critical in any client-financial advisor relationship is a mutual understanding that reflects the client’s financial planning situation. An IPS assists in this mission and details and defines a client’s needs, goals, investment knowledge, net worth, time horizon, and risk tolerance. With an IPS document, clients have a more clear understanding of a financial advisor’s investment philosophy and reference point to adjust when a change in personal financial situation occurs. Cardinal Point wealth Management works with clients to ensure a customized cross-border financial planning strategy and to develop Investment Policy Statements that reflect the unique situation of each client.