Argus Financial Ltd. has launched a new portfolio of Canada-oriented investment funds that the company hopes will have particular appeal for Canadian expatriates working in Bermuda.

The 'Maple Leaf' funds, which are offered in Canadian dollars, are designed for investors seeking exposure to Canadian investments.

The new portfolios include funds with varying risk exposures to suit the risk appetitive of the individual investor - Moderate, Balanced and Growth strategies. The 'Maple Leaf' portfolios, in addition to being well diversified, will include Canadian companies as part of the portfolios.

Cindy Campbell, chief operating officer, AFL Investments, said: "During the commodity boom of the past 10 years, the Canadian dollar has strengthened and is widely considered to be a commodity currency.

"For investors concerned about the potential long-term weakness of the US dollar who are looking for an alternative, an allocation to the Canadian dollar can make sense."

The portfolios also allow Canadian expatriates who liquidated their assets when they moved to Bermuda to invest in a portfolio of funds where the majority of underlying investments are in their native currency.

This ensures that the value of their Canadian assets to be invested is not adversely affected by exchange rates and unnecessary administration charges.

Carla Seely, senior wealth manager at AFL Investments and a Canadian, said: "Bermuda is a popular location for Canadians working abroad. Before their move to the island, many Canadian expatriates would have cashed in the assets they held in Canada including their property to avoid being taxed simultaneously in both jurisdictions.

AFL Investments will be holding a series of free seminars later this month at 14 Wesley Street, Hamilton on September 22, (6-8 p.m.), September 23 (12-1 p.m). and September 24 (6-8 p.m.) for those who are interested in finding out more about the 'Maple Leaf' portfolios, at the new Argus Building.

To register to attend one of the free seminars, contact Theresa Santos at AFL Investments on 294-5715 or at tsantos[AT] aflinvestments.bm. Places are limited.