Riad Assaf

Some chartered accountants, lawyers and doctors that do work for large corporations may be prohibited from investing in those corporations. For example, chartered accountants who work for national accounting firms that audit publicly traded companies or doctors who participate in drug trials for pharmaceutical companies that are publicly traded. In these instances, these clients cannot invest in these companies for compliance and conflict of interest reasons. As a Portfolio Manager, Riad has the capability to manage portfolios for professionals like this while avoiding the restricted companies, which for some accountants can cover many companies.

Some corporate executives, through their company stock, end up being over-exposed or concentrated in that one stock and/or industry. Riad has the capability to manage these executives' portfolios while avoiding additional exposure to these stocks/industries. Also, in order to manage large company positions while avoiding potentially large tax gains, Riad is able to implement option strategies to convert large stock positions to an income generating position (without having to sell the stock). It is important to note that depending on specific client constraints, these strategies may not be allowed by the client's employer.

Riad was approached by Muslim professionals back in 2004 to provide this unique service. Riad provides this strategy for muslim professionals who have a desire to have their money managed according to their islamic principles (halal investing).

Being able to construct a portfolio comprised of halal companies is just one step in a multi-step process. In addition to successfully structuring a compliant portfolio, an Advisor needs to be knowledgeable in this area. For instance, Riad will not invest in companies that may be considered compliant but do not meet his own strict testing (i.e. pays attention to the spirit of the law and not just the letter of the law).

This service is offered for retail and institutional investors.