Look before you leap: Some things to check BEFORE you invest

Ontario Securities Commission
Media Release

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Investing is not a one-step process and investment decisions should be INFORMED decisions. Before you invest your money:

Know where you’re going with your investments. Play an active role in your financial health. Before you invest or begin to work with a financial adviser, take some time to set investment goals and decide how much risk you can afford. Investing your money isn’t something to do once and then forget about. Check in regularly with your investments and your adviser, and re-evaluate your goals from time to time.

Know who you’re dealing with. Before committing to an investment opportunity, start by checking the background and registration of person or company you’re dealing with. Any individual selling investments in Ontario must be registered with the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC), unless they are exempt. Check registration by calling the OSC toll-free at 1-877-785-1555.

Know what you’re investing in. Every investment has some degree of risk. Understand how the investment works and check to make sure it fits your needs. Get your information from different sources: read the prospectus and financial media, and order or download free brochures from the OSC.

Know where to go for help. As Ontario’s capital markets regulator, the OSC provides information and resources to help investors protect their money and make more informed financial decisions.

Visit www.checkbeforeyouinvest.ca to learn more. Still have questions? Call the OSC toll-free at 1-877-785-1555.

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