George M. Youssef

Operates as a national commercial bank

LIM's investment approach is based on the principles of value investing. They screen a broad universe of stocks in a search for cases of undervaluation. The broader economic, capital market and sector factors at work receive less weight in the firm's analysis than company-specific information. However, security analysts in the firm conduct their company-specific work based on consistent expectations regarding the larger economic environment. Decisions are based on thorough assessments of corporations and their managements in order to find securities selling at substantial discounts compared to their fair value. Original, in-depth, internally generated research is a cornerstone of their investment process. This disciplined method minimizes the influence of human emotions in the valuation process. Their sell discipline reflects a stock price reaching its calculated fair value, deteriorating fundamentals or the identification of a more attractive opportunity in the confines of a target asset mix policy. Each portfolio manager is responsible for researching companies within his areas of responsibility, making buy/sell decisions and executing transactions within policy guidelines. Portfolio managers are assigned sector responsibilities on a global basis. The focus of investment activity is on Canadian and U.S. equity markets. However, non-North American investments may be made by exception. LIM's fixed-income process begins with an economic overview. The key investment decision is duration. The decision reflects their long-term view of inflationary trends relative to the current level of interest rates and the shape of the yield curve. They believe that 'real interest rates' should be calculated using long-term inflationary expectations rather than the current rate of inflation. Exposure to credit risk through corporate, provincial and municipal government issues is a reflection of risk-reward analysis and detailed credit analysis. While rating agency reports are reviewed, they are not relied on. Internal analysis by the fixed income team, with support from the equity team as required, is the basis of security selection. In searching for the best value opportunities, LIM considers domestic and foreign markets. They are a domestic fixed-income manager but there are times when the Canadian market, or sectors within this market, are relatively over-priced, leading to the establishment of positions in foreign markets. Foreign exchange risk may be accepted, although the preference is to eliminate this risk through hedging.

Provides brokerage services