Beyond traditional dividend investing: GuardCap’s AI-driven approach to global equities with James M. Francis

How is artificial intelligence changing the way global dividend strategies are managed? In this interview, James M. Francis, Client Portfolio Manager at Guardian Capital, explains how the firm's i³ Global Dividend Growth strategy combines machine learning, human intelligence and innovation to identify high-quality companies and deliver long-term, risk-adjusted returns.

Since 2018, GuardCap has integrated machine learning into its investment process, using predictive models to identify future dividend growers, assess earnings growth and avoid potential dividend cuts. Our guest discusses how this approach has performed through major market disruptions, how AI is evolving and what the completed merger with Desjardins Group means for GuardCap's ambitions in Europe.

Watch the full interview to discover how AI-driven insights and human investment expertise can work together to shape the future of global dividend investing.

• 0:17 What is the core strategy of the GuardCap i³ Global Dividend Growth, and how has Machine Learning driven its stock selection since 2018?
• 6:05 How has this AI-driven approach helped generate consistent alpha and manage downside risk compared to traditional global dividend strategies?
• 9:38 From the 2020 pandemic to the 2022 rate shocks, how has the machine learning model adapted to extreme market shifts?
• 14:13 How does the model balance traditional dividend sectors like healthcare or consumer goods with high-growth technology companies?
• 17:24 You've used AI since 2018. How are you upgrading your proprietary tools today to stay ahead of competitors who are just starting to adopt AI?
• 20:45 Following the completed merger with Desjardins Group, how does backing from North America's largest cooperative bank enhance GuardCap's capabilities and support bringing new strategies to European investors?