THE DFSIN DIFFERENCE

Akaash's Story

“SUCCESS COMES FROM STRONG NETWORKING AND A WILLINGNESS TO CONTINUALLY LEARN.”

Independence has always been central to Akaash’s approach as a financial advisor. As a self-driven professional and business owner, he values the freedom to make objective, well-informed decisions tailored to each client’s unique needs. Backed by a strong foundation in accounting and finance, and shaped further by his experience as a father, Akaash brings both technical insight and personal perspective to his work—helping families and business owners plan with confidence at every stage of life.

“Independence is very important to me. I value having the ability to make objective, well informed decisions that are truly in my clients’ best interests.”


Akaash Kalra, CFP®, BComm-FSM, RIAC, EPC, RIS
Certified Financial Planner
DFSIN Ontario Central
Mississauga, ON

A CONVERSATION WITH AKAASH KALRA

I have always been a self driven individual, and independence is very important to me. I value having the ability to make objective, well informed decisions that are truly in my clients’ best interests. Working independently allows me to offer unbiased financial products and instruments, without being restricted to a one size fits all approach.

This independence also gives me the flexibility to set my own schedule and workflow, helping me maintain a healthy work life balance and adapt through different stages of my life. It is very satisfying to take full ownership of my practice and be able to directly connect my efforts to the value I provide and the success I achieve for my clients.

I studied accounting and later pursued finance, as I’ve always had a strong interest in numbers, strategy, and problem solving. While studying finance, I completed a co op semester in 2009 with a financial advisor in the Desjardins network. That hands on experience gave me valuable insight into the role and confirmed that this career was a strong fit for me.

I enjoy building relationships and working closely with people, and financial advising allows me to combine those strengths with my analytical background. Helping individuals and families plan for their financial futures is both meaningful and fulfilling, and this career brings together all of my passions. It has been an incredibly rewarding and satisfying path.

I believe that success comes from strong networking and a willingness to continually learn. The branch is made up of very experienced advisors who have always been willing to answer questions and share their knowledge and experience. The network also does an excellent job of offering educational sessions with various financial institutions, ensuring we stay up to date on current offerings and opportunities so I can provide well informed solutions to my clients. I have made life long friendships with colleagues in my financial centre who I can look to for both personal and career advise.

Having a family of my own, combined with being a business owner, has given me a much deeper understanding of the challenges faced by young business owners who are also raising a family. I can personally relate to balancing business responsibilities with family priorities, time constraints, and long term planning.

This perspective allows me to connect more meaningfully with clients who are navigating similar stages in life. I better understand the importance of flexibility, succession planning, and creating financial stability for both their business and their family. As a result, I’m able to offer advice that is not only practical, but also grounded in real life experience and empathy.

Continuous growth and staying current are essential in this industry, especially in a field that is constantly evolving. Education is critical, as new concepts, strategies, and products are continuously being introduced. Over the last 16 years, I’ve seen firsthand how much the industry has changed, which reinforces how important it is to remain informed and adaptable.

To provide top level service, I need to be aware of the most up to date and effective options available to my clients. I make it a priority to take courses, pursue professional designations, and regularly participate in training sessions. This ongoing education allows me to confidently recommend solutions, stay ahead of industry changes, and build lasting trust with my clients through informed, professional advice.