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At the core of our rich and varied history are our founders – Harry Shapiro and Arthur Pervin. Their values, heart, and drive live on in everything we do today.
When Harry Shapiro and Arthur Pervin started The Shapiro Group in 1977, they sought to move away from the traditional labour-intensive, single-broker model that was popular in the industry at the time. Their solution – an innovative approach that leveraged the specialized skill sets of each team member – helped to improve efficiency and client satisfaction and built the foundation for the work we still proudly carry on almost 50 years later.
A highly decorated World War II veteran, a pillar of Montreal’s financial community, and a trusted advisor to investors and their families, the late Harry Shapiro makes an honourable namesake for our team.
Harry founded The Shapiro Group of RBC Dominion Securities (then called Dominion Securities Pitfield Ltd.) with partner Arthur Pervin in 1977. Together, the two pioneered an innovative team-based approach that quickly led to The Shapiro Group being recognized as one of the leading wealth management practices in the Montreal area and beyond. Harry was dedicated to client service and was constantly finding new ways to improve processes in an industry marked with changes. His passion for making a real difference in the lives of others, along with his core values of dedication, integrity, and transparency, remain the foundation of our team and the work we do.
“The investment business is very exciting and demanding. It is affected by politics, the economy, and just everything. You have to make decisions quickly and act quickly.” – Harry Shapiro
Harry was the first person of Jewish faith to be awarded a seat on the Montreal Stock Exchange. Even after his passing in 2006, both he and his name remain well-known and respected in the Montreal community.
After enlisting in the Royal Canadian Air Force at 25, Harry joined the “pathfinders” – a volunteer team tasked with undertaking high-risk missions over enemy territory. With his fellow pathfinders, Harry completed 49 missions over enemy territory in Germany and Italy. He even joined what the soldiers called the “Caterpillar Club” when he was forced to flee a plane by way of a parachute (which was made with caterpillar silk).
“Being caught in the enemy’s searchlights is a strange and harrowing experience indeed. I described it as being suddenly caught naked. Or you’re caught with your hand in the cookie jar.” – Harry Shapiro
During and after the war, Harry received several honours for his skill, bravery, and dedication. At Buckingham Palace, he received the Distinguished Flying Cross from King George VI himself. He was also inducted into Canada’s Hall of Valour in Ottawa.
Harry was born in the Westmount neighbourhood of Montreal in 1915 and lived in the city all his life. He attended Westmount High School, where he discovered a life-long love of sports and fitness. Later, he married Liliane Kostoris, and together they had two sons, Paul and Richard. Harry kept active well into his 60s, frequently partaking in tennis, squash, and callisthenics.
A core part of our team since its earliest beginnings, Arthur Pervin's thoughtful advice, insightful knowledge, and innovative spirit shaped The Shapiro Group into the practice it is today.
Arthur began his storied career as a stockbroker in 1962, working with several leading firms before shifting to branch management roles a decade later. In 1977, he bumped into Harry Shapiro at a bank branch in downtown Montreal, and the two joined forces to form The Shapiro Group of RBC Dominion Securities (then called Dominion Securities Pitfield Ltd.).
Arthur’s skill in equities seamlessly blended with Harry’s mastery of bond investments, and together the two shaped a distinctive approach to wealth that The Shapiro Group still utilizes today. This partnership was more than a strategic alliance; it was a reflection of their commitment to providing clients with a well-rounded and effective service.
Today, their collaborative foundation continues to guide our team, ensuring we remain at the forefront of delivering exceptional financial solutions.
“Arthur was extremely helpful to me in the early days of my career (more than 20 years ago), having taken me ‘under his wing’ and sharing everything he knew about the wealth management business. I still recall the sound advice and guidance that Arthur provided me back then.” – David Agnew, CEO of RBC Wealth Management Canada
Arthur is a graduate of Sir George Williams University (the predecessor school to Concordia University). He and his wife, Helaine, are proud to give back through a variety of community initiatives.
That’s The Shapiro Group difference.
