5.3.22
10:05 PM
Features
Collen Alexander Thabo On Five Things You Need To Be A Highly Effective Leader During Uncertain & Turbulent Times
As part of our series about the “Five Things You Need To Be A Highly Effective Leader During Turbulent Times”, we had the pleasure of interviewing Collen Alexander Thabo, a highly respected financial advisor and wealth strategist.
As a Regional Managing Principal in global finance and wealth management, Collen has advised individuals, institutions, and corporations for over 25 years. He specializes in stock investments, commodities, and foreign exchange, guiding clients to build and protect wealth through both prosperous and volatile markets.
Amy Lamare
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Collen Alexander Thabo On Five Things You Need To Be A Highly Effective Leader During Uncertain & Turbulent Times
As part of our series about the “Five Things You Need To Be A Highly Effective Leader During Turbulent Times”, we had the pleasure of interviewing Collen Alexander Thabo, a highly respected financial advisor and wealth strategist.
As a Regional Managing Principal in global finance and wealth management, Collen has advised individuals, institutions, and corporations for over 25 years. He specializes in stock investments, commodities, and foreign exchange, guiding clients to build and protect wealth through both prosperous and volatile markets.
Thank you so much for your time! I know that you are a very busy person. Our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your backstory and how you got started?
Amy Limer
5.3.22
10:05 PM
I grew up in Cape Town, South Africa, in a modest but close-knit family. Life there taught me discipline, resilience, and the importance of community.
From a young age, I was fascinated by how money moves the way markets could shape people’s futures and the power of financial decisions. That curiosity grew into a passion. As a Regional Managing Principal in global finance and wealth management, Collen has advised individuals, institutions, and corporations for over 25 years. He specializes in stock investments, commodities, and foreign exchange, guiding clients to build and protect wealth through both prosperous and volatile markets.
Many consider you one of the best financial advisors in your field. What do you think sets you apart from others?
I would say it’s my combination of global perspective and personal approach. Growing up in South Africa, studying and building my career in the U.S., and working with clients around the world gave me a deep understanding of how different markets move and connect.
At the same time, I don’t just look at numbers, I look at people’s lives. I believe every financial strategy must align with the client’s goals, values, and risk tolerance. That balance of technical expertise and human connection is what makes the difference.
Can you share one of your proudest success stories as an advisor?
There was a client who came to me after losing nearly everything during a market downturn. They were convinced it was “too late” to rebuild. We worked together, step by step, restructuring their portfolio, diversifying across asset classes, and focusing on disciplined long-term growth. Within a few years, not only had they recovered, but they had built more wealth than before. That moment reminded me why I do this work. Finance is not just about money, it’s about restoring confidence, rebuilding lives, and proving that it’s never too late to take control of your future.
In your opinion, what is the key to long-term financial success?
Discipline and patience. Markets will always rise and fall, but those who remain consistent in their strategy, avoid emotional decisions, and stay focused on long-term goals are the ones who truly win. I often tell clients: “Wealth is built in decades, not days.”
What’s the biggest misconception people have about financial advisors?
That we’re only here to pick stocks or time the market. In reality, my job is much broader it’s about wealth strategy. That means protecting assets, minimizing risk, managing taxes, planning for retirement, and ensuring that clients can live the life they want without fear of running out of resources. The best financial advisors are not gamblers; they’re strategists and long-term partners.
The finance world can be overwhelming for many. How do you simplify complex markets for your clients?
I use a simple rule: if I can’t explain it clearly, I shouldn’t recommend it.
Clients don’t need jargon, they need clarity. I take the time to break things down into plain language, show examples, and ensure they understand the “why” behind every decision.
The goal is not just to manage their money but to empower them with knowledge.
What innovations or changes do you see shaping the future of finance?
I believe we’re entering an era of personalized investing. With advances in data and technology, advisors will be able to create highly tailored strategies that align with each client’s unique life goals. I also see a growing role for digital assets and alternative investments, though with caution. The key will be balancing innovation with discipline embracing new opportunities without abandoning the fundamentals that have always built wealth.
What advice would you give young professionals who want to build wealth but feel overwhelmed?
Start early, stay consistent, and don’t chase “quick wins.” Even small amounts invested regularly can grow into something extraordinary over time. The most important thing is to develop the habit of saving and investing once that’s in place, the rest can be fine-tuned with strategy.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to become a top financial advisor like you?
Focus less on selling products and more on building trust. Clients don’t stay because you picked one good stock, they stay because they know you’re on their side, through good times and bad. Integrity, transparency, and empathy are what separate the best advisors from the rest.
Based on your experience, what are the five most important things a leader should do during turbulent times?
1. Listen carefully — to colleagues, clients, and trusted advisors.
2. Foster urgency with focus, not fear.
3. Stay committed. Don’t abandon a goal prematurely.
4. Be self-reflective. Mistakes are lessons in disguise.
5. Be transparent. Trust is destroyed the moment honesty disappears.
Do you have a favorite “Life Lesson Quote”?
“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” — Oscar Wilde.
This has always guided me.
Authenticity is the greatest strength any leader or advisor, can bring to the table.
Thank you so much for sharing your insights. We wish you continued success and good health!
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