Tariffs and global trade shifts challenge Canadian businesses and communities, but they also open doors for innovation, resilience, and collaboration. Aviso champions a "made-in-Canada" approach, leveraging credit unions, partnerships, and strategic investments to build a stronger financial foundation for all Canadians.

Tariffs and shifting global trade conditions present unique challenges for Canadian businesses and the broader economy. Overcoming these obstacles requires a coordinated effort to address immediate issues and build long-term resilience.

As a leading wealth services supplier, Aviso supports credit unions and many other financial institutions and their financial advisors by providing a wide range of investment, insurance, and support products and services. In this article, we turn to key leaders within the Aviso team—Bill Packham, Wanda Frisk, Kevin Vanderheyden, and Tim Prescott—to share their perspectives on a made-in-Canada response to tariffs.

Their insights demonstrate the importance of driving collaboration and competitiveness, building resilient strategies, and ensuring that Canada’s financial landscape is equipped to thrive amid change and uncertainty.


Why is it important to invest in and support Canadian financial institutions in the face of tariff challenges?

Bill Packham, President and CEO, emphasizes that Canadian financial institutions are an integral part of our country’s economic infrastructure.

“Canadian businesses play an essential role in helping individuals, businesses, and communities weather economic uncertainties,” Bill explains. “When tariffs are introduced or trade relationships shift, they can have ripple effects across industries. Investing in homegrown solutions—be it technology, expertise, or partnerships—strengthens our competitive edge as a nation and the financial resilience of all Canadians.”


How do credit unions help Canadians manage the financial complexities of tariffs and economic uncertainty?

As a key partner to credit unions in Canada, Aviso provides a range of products, services and solutions to help their members adapt to changing economic conditions. Wanda Frisk, SVP, Head of Credit Union Wealth Management, highlights the integral role that credit unions play in supporting members through both personal and community-based financial solutions.

“Tariffs and their associated economic uncertainty can create significant stress for families, business owners, and entire communities,” Wanda shares. “Credit unions are uniquely positioned to help Canadians because of their personal, member-focused approach. They provide the advice and tailored solutions people need, whether they’re saving for their future, growing their business, or navigating market volatility.”

Wanda also emphasizes the importance of education and financial literacy in uncertain economic times. “We work closely with their members to demystify financial challenges and help them see a clear path forward. By offering customized planning and a wealth of resources designed specifically for credit union members and their respective communities, we empower Canadians to make sound financial decisions, no matter the situation.”

A deep commitment to member-focused solutions is deeply aligned with the values of Canada’s credit union and cooperative system. Wanda highlights the vital role that cooperative values play in strengthening the financial sector and the broader economy. “A diverse financial sector drives innovation and resilience. It reflects the voices, needs and opportunities of all Canadians, allowing us to create solutions that resonate across various communities.”


What role do partnerships play in creating a strong, unified response to tariffs?

Collaboration is a central theme for Kevin Vanderheyden, SVP, Head of Aviso Correspondent Partners, who explains that partnerships are fundamental to navigating the challenges posed by tariffs and other economic disruptions.

“Isolation isn’t an option when you’re facing complex challenges,” Kevin remarks. “At Aviso Correspondent Partners, we focus on building relationships with over 120 partners, including portfolio managers, investment dealers and other financial institutions to develop solutions that benefit everyone in the financial ecosystem. These partnerships allow us to scale our efforts and provide tailored responses to unique client needs so they can focus on growing their business.”

Kevin also highlights how these collaborations enhance service offerings. “Our cooperative approach enables us to provide specialized tools and expertise while also fostering innovation across the sector. Together, we can ensure financial services remain accessible, adaptable, and equitable for Canadians.”


How can investments help build Canada’s financial resilience against tariffs and other economic challenges?

Tim Prescott, SVP, Head of Asset Management, stresses the importance of strategic investment decisions in creating long-term stability.

“Investments are a critical lever when it comes to navigating economic challenges like tariffs. At NEI, we prioritize identifying opportunities that allow Canadian investors to not only weather uncertainties, but emerge stronger on the other side,” Tim explains.

He emphasizes that diversification and informed investment strategies are integral to this process. “By focusing on investments that support sectors poised for long-term growth—whether it’s sustainable industries, infrastructure, or innovative technologies—we build resilience into the portfolios of Canadian investors. It’s about taking a thoughtful, forward-looking approach.”

Tim also notes that investments create a cascading impact. “When we make smart choices, it doesn’t just benefit individual investors. Over time, those decisions contribute to economic stability and growth across the country.”


A shared vision for Canada’s financial future

By uniting innovation, partnerships, and strategic thinking, our financial institutions can continue to serve as a strong foundation for Canada’s economic future.