For Edric Yi Guo, finance has always been more than numbers and charts—it’s a space where timing, discipline, and mindset come together.
As President and CEO of Univest Securities, he draws from over a decade of experience in both Asian and North American markets to navigate an ever-evolving global financial landscape.
Outside of work, Edric is a longtime bodybuilder, a father, and a mentor to young professionals. His approach to life mirrors his professional ethos: consistent, intentional, and grounded.
In this conversation, Edric reflects on the start of his entrepreneurial journey and the habits that continue to shape his perspective on leadership, family, and success.
What first drew you to the financial industry? Was there a defining moment that set you on this path?
I’ve always had a natural curiosity about the financial world. I was fascinated by the stock market, especially during the global financial crisis, which sparked my interest in risk and strategy. I’m a natural risk-taker, and the energy of the financial markets resonated with me. Later, during a reunion with a college friend—who would also become my first business partner—we decided to start our own venture. We believed we could do it better than anyone else, and that belief became the starting point of my entrepreneurial journey in finance.
The Fox Magazine is all about inspiration, have any life experiences inspired the way you approach success?
Bodybuilding. I’ve done it for years, and I still train daily. It’s taught me discipline, consistency, and mental strength. Bodybuilding requires a strong work ethic – there’s no shortcut. I’ve always been a very self-motivated and self-driven person.
Leading a boutique investment bank in a competitive industry is no small feat – how have you positioned Univest Securities for success?
It comes down to doing the right things at the right time, with clarity of vision.
I don’t believe in following trends blindly. Instead, I focus on understanding the timing, the market, and the long-term value behind every strategic move. That mindset has allowed us to stay ahead and build Univest into a differentiated, future-focused institution.
With your extensive experience in investment banking, looking back, what do you see as your biggest growth moment?
Honestly, I grow every single day. That’s how I approach my career—step by step, with consistency and intention. There hasn’t been one single moment, but rather a constant evolution. Every challenge, every deal, every team discussion—these are all part of the journey that keeps making me better than the day before.
Market fluctuations can be daunting. From your experience, what’s the best way to stay calm and make smart financial decisions?
When you truly understand the market—when you’ve put in the time, built experience, and done your homework—you gain the confidence to stay level-headed. People panic when they don’t understand what’s happening. Knowledge, preparation, and perspective are what keep you grounded during volatility.
Calm comes from competence.
Many young investors are eager to get into the market but can be swayed by short-term hype. What’s your advice for them?
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to investing. Whether it’s short-term, mid-term, or long-term, you need a clear strategy tailored to your goals and risk appetite. The key is to remain disciplined. Avoid getting swept up in market noise—have a plan, stick to it, and learn continuously.
Do your children understand what you do? Have they shown any interest in finance?
They’re still quite young, so they don’t fully understand what I do yet. But I believe exposure matters. Even if they don’t become interested in finance, the environment, the mindset, and the way I approach life and work will influence them in subtle but meaningful ways. Whatever they choose to do in the future, I’ll always support them.
About Edric Guo
