
Canaccord Wealth has taken a significant step in its global expansion by opening a permanent office in Dubai’s financial hub, the DIFC.
The move follows the firm’s recent acquisition of Brooks MacDonald International’s businesses in Guernsey, the Isle of Man, and Jersey.
The office, operating under a Category Four Investment Advisor Licence, will enhance Canaccord’s ability to serve high-net-worth individuals and expatriates in the Middle East, adding to its existing international presence in Singapore and the Crown Dependencies.
Canaccord Wealth CEO David Esfandi highlighted the firm’s ambitions for the region. “I’ve spent quite a lot of time in the Middle East recently and from the early conversations I am having, this move represents a massive opportunity for us, an opportunity that matches our ambitious growth plans.
“We want to increase our presence and footprint in the Middle East, and I am delighted that we now have a permanent base to serve clients who want a wealth manager that goes above and beyond.”
Andy Finch, CEO of Canaccord Wealth’s international business, echoed this enthusiasm: “This is a very exciting time as we continue on our growth trajectory. With a strong, established presence in the UK, Guernsey, the Isle of Man, and Jersey, our office in Dubai’s DIFC puts us in an even stronger position to support clients across borders. We are very well positioned to work with expats and international clients who want to grow their wealth with confidence.”
Canaccord’s expansion into Dubai aims to cater to international clients and expatriates looking for tailored wealth management services.
“We see many opportunities in the Middle East and now we can discuss, with clients and connections, our centralised investment philosophy from a regulated base,” Finch added. “I am looking forward to seeing what we can achieve in the coming months.”
Moreover, leading the office is Richard Burden, the Senior Executive Officer (SEO), who brings 30 years of experience working across the Middle East. He also shared: “We already have strong relationships with intermediaries and clients in the region. I am looking forward to strengthening those connections.”
With its new Dubai presence, Canaccord Wealth aims to solidify its reputation as a trusted wealth manager for international clients, reinforcing its commitment to global expansion.