JIM BALSILLIE So I am not going to write a big lead in on Jim’s Opening Keynote at the FEI Canada Conference a couple days ago—he is one of our country’s most successful business leaders and visionaries and its best I let his words carry the day via this Financial Post article. I do want to offer my thanks to Jim who set the tone and manner for the entire Conference by being open, insightful, straight forward (he is not shy to say how he feels which we loved!!) passionate, and highly engaging. And having never met Jim before what really struck me is how much this man loves our country. He is a passionate Canadian who just wants us to succeed, do better, reach further and strive higher. On a final note, a word of thanks to FEI Canada and Toronto Chapter Board Member Jordan Beallor. It takes a village to put on these Conferences, and we ask for a lot of help from our members and volunteers. Jordan brought the idea of having Jim as Opening Keynote to the table, made the invite personally and worked with Jim's team leading into the presentation. Jordan, much appreciated. Jordan Beallor, CPA, CA
A highlight from the opening keynote at the FEI Canada 2026 Conference: national business publication The Financial Post recently featured key insights from Jim Balsillie’s thought-provoking address on Canada’s economic future. Jim challenged attendees to rethink how Canada competes in an economy increasingly driven by AI, data, intellectual property, and digital infrastructure. His message was clear: Canada must modernize its economic strategy or risk falling behind in a rapidly changing global landscape. He also pointed to a potential $500-billion opportunity if Canada embraces the realities of the modern economy and strengthens its approach to innovation, competitiveness, and digital sovereignty. The keynote sparked important conversations throughout the conference and continues to generate discussion well beyond the event. Read The Financial Post’s coverage here: https://lnkd.in/enfrqJ2i #FEICanada2026 #Leadership #Innovation #EconomicGrowth #AI #CanadianEconomy
Thanks Howard Kerbel and team for putting together a fantastic conference!