Ilaria Defendi

I'm Ilaria - co-founder and cross border planner at i2 Wealth - Cross Border Planning.

With more than 15 years of experience as a financial planner, I’ve gained a reputation among clients as a dependable and trustworthy ally.

My journey to Canada has provided me with a unique perspective, allowing me to empathize with the challenges of moving to a new country. I am dedicated to helping clients navigate these complexities, avoiding costly mistakes and seizing every opportunity.

My career in the financial industry began in Italy and flourished with the pursuit of a post-graduate certificate in financial planning from George Brown College in Toronto. Since then, I have expanded my expertise through diverse roles at multinational corporations and boutique firms, specializing in Canada/US cross-border planning. My areas of expertise include Cross-Border Financial Planning, Tax Planning, Retirement Planning, Estate Planning, and Insurance and Risk Management. My passion is empowering clients to achieve their financial goals through tailored solutions.

I value collaboration and leverage the expertise of fellow professionals. I work with a network of cross-border accountants, lawyers, and investment advisors to ensure seamless integration and alignment in every financial plan.

Outside of work, I cherish time with my partner, stepson, and our beloved cat, Fuffy. I also prioritize regular visits to Italy to reconnect with my parents and friends and immerse myself in the culture that shaped me.

I am passionate about children’s rights, environmental conservation, empowering women, and mentoring the next generation of financial planners. Giving back is central to my values. I have volunteered to assist with tax preparations for women facing socio-economic challenges and supported future financial planners at GBC. These experiences highlight the importance of helping those in need and drive my commitment to positively impacting others’ lives.