IG Wealth Management (Investors Group rebrand) is Canada's largest non-bank advisor network. Owned by Power Corporation. Charges high MERs on proprietary mutual funds (1.8-2.5%) — they prefer you in IG-branded funds vs third-party ETFs. Strong in tax-planning and estate services. Their consultants are licensed financial advisors but compensated primarily through fund-revenue, creating obvious conflict.
IG's flagship funds carry 2.15% average MER — meaning a $500K portfolio costs $10,750/yr in fees vs $750-$1,500/yr in a comparable ETF portfolio. Over 25 years compounding, the fee drag can reduce final account balance by 35-40%. The MERs include "trailer commissions" paid to the advisor. We recommend IG only if you genuinely need high-touch wealth planning, otherwise the same advisor-quality is available at PWL, Cidel, or Nicola Wealth at lower combined cost.