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Your partner in personalized, full-service wealth management

Your ally in the pursuit of financial freedom

We go beyond managing money—we focus on optimizing your financial journey by fusing technology, modern strategies, and core values like integrity, transparency, and balance. We provide honest, personalized advice and a proactive, high-touch experience.

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Meet the team

Mike Kaine, CFP®
Carsten Sorensen
Arlene Rheaume
Administrative Assistant
Kella Wilson
Administrative Assistant
Cesar Cossio, CFA®
Portfolio Manager

Team values

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Client-First Approach

Bear Street Financial Group prioritize exceptional, personalized service, treating every client as an individual with unique goals and needs. By focusing on building trust and fostering meaningful relationships, they ensure each client feels valued and supported. Their client-first philosophy drives every decision, ensuring strategies are tailored to achieve meaningful outcomes and long-term financial success.

Integrity as a Guiding Principle

Honesty, transparency, and ethical practices are the foundation of Bear Street Financial Group. The team is committed to providing clear, unbiased advice and open communication at every step of the financial planning process. By consistently putting the client’s best interests at the forefront, they create a trusted partnership that inspires confidence and builds lasting relationships.

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Empowering Clients Through Knowledge

At Bear Street Financial Group, staying informed and knowledgeable is a top priority. The team continually tracks industry trends to provide expert guidance that reflects the latest developments. By offering up-to-date strategies and empowering clients through education, they ensure every decision is well-informed. This commitment to education fosters confidence and helps clients achieve their financial goals with clarity and assurance.

Timeline

1992

Carsten Sorensen began helping the Bow Valley community with their life insurance needs in 1992. As a founding partner and Managing Director at Bear Street Financial Group, he consistently aimed to enlighten clients on the importance of protecting their wealth. His long-standing expertise positioned him as a key leader in the firm's development and service philosophy.

2001

Mike started his career in private wealth management and insurance in 2001. He brought over two decades of experience to Bear Street Financial Group, where he served as a founding partner and Managing Director. For six years, he led the team with strategic vision and dedication to client success.

2005

Arlene Rheume contributed over 20 years of experience in wealth management and insurance services to her role at Bear Street Financial Group. As a Client Services Associate, she was instrumental in overseeing day-to-day operations, managing client communications, and supporting both the financial and insurance divisions of the firm.

2019 - Present

Kella Wilson joined Bear Street Financial Group in 2019 and served as the Group Benefits Administrator. She handled all aspects of group insurance services, including policy renewals, quote issuance, plan setup, and providing support to administrators and employees. Her attention to detail and client care made her an essential part of the team.

Supporting our community

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Providing equitable education opportunities for children is a cause Bear Street Financial Group is passionate about. By supporting First Book Canada, the team helps ensure that children in need have access to the resources they require to succeed academically. This reflects their dedication to fostering brighter futures through education and community involvement.

 

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Improving health outcomes for children is a priority for Bear Street Financial Group. By contributing to SickKids, they support groundbreaking pediatric research and innovative care that benefits children and families. Their involvement underscores a commitment to advancing healthcare and creating a healthier future for the next generation.

 

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Promoting understanding and reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities is an important focus for Bear Street Financial Group. Through their support of the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund, they contribute to efforts aimed at fostering inclusivity and building stronger connections across communities. This commitment reflects their belief in a more compassionate and unified society.

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Optimize Global Asset Management Inc. (operating as “Optimize Asset Management” or “Optimize”) is registered as a Portfolio Manager in all Canadian provinces. Optimize is also registered as an Investment Fund Manager in the province of Ontario and an Exempt Market Dealer in the provinces of British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and Saskatchewan. Optimize Wealth Management Inc. (operating as “Optimize Wealth Management”) is a member of the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (“CIRO”) and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (“CIPF”). Mortgage solutions are provided by Nesto Inc. Insurance solutions are offered through Optimize’s Managing General Agency, Financial Horizons Inc., and are available only through licensed representatives at Optimize. Investment and portfolio management is offered through Optimize, while financial services and solutions including financial planning, tax preparation, insurance solutions, debt management, and will preparation are provided through our affiliate, Optimize Family Office Services Inc. Investment advice is provided by licensed Optimize and Optimize Wealth Management Representatives only. Optimize does not provide legal, tax, real estate, or private equity advice. Nothing contained herein should be interpreted as such. "Optimize Financial Group" refers to the group of companies including the parent company Optimize Financial Group Inc., it's subsidiaries and affiliates.