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A Fresh Look at RRSPs vs. TFSAs

Posted on: January 15, 2024
A Fresh Look at RRSPs vs. TFSAs

The Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) contribution limit has increased to $7,000 (from $6,500) for 2024. This new limit means that a taxpayer who has never contributed to a TFSA and has been eligible for one since its inception will have a cumulative contribution room of $95,000. TFSAs are now a serious portfolio and investment planning alternative to making RRSP contributions. So, which is better you ask? Well, it depends…

Tags: 
financial strategy

Make 2024 Your Best Financial Year Yet

Posted on: January 15, 2024
Make 2024 Your Best Financial Year Yet

Many of us reflect on our yearly financial goals as the calendar turns to a New Year. But bringing goals to fruition can't happen without a clear plan of action and determined effort. This is especially true as we continue to live with lingering effects of above-average inflation and the highest interest rates in over 20 years. To help maximize your investment success and end this year on a financially positive note, we have put together some key ideas:

Tags: 
investment planning

Talking To Your Parents While There is Still Time

Posted on: January 15, 2024
Talking To Your Parents While There is Still Time

Many clients in their 50's and 60's are increasingly worried about the finances of their aging parents. This is especially true when it is difficult to predict interest income on investments. They often ask: 'How do I talk to them about their care and their finances?'

This topic raises many sensitive family dynamics including the adult child who is uncomfortable raising the topic with their parents and parents who are in denial or not comfortable discussing these personal care and financial issues with their children.

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financial strategies
eldercare

Lessons Learned from the Wealthy

Posted on: December 11, 2023

Most people want to be wealthy, or at least financially independent. The sad truth is that very few people are financially independent when they reach retirement. The rest are dependent to some extent on others or government benefits for their daily money needs.

Far too many people today live a lifestyle that is under a mountain of consumer debt. In many cases, that debt follows them into retirement. There are simple strategies to achieve financial independence; however, they may not necessarily be easy to follow.

Tags: 
financial strategy
financial strategies

These Rainy Days Aren't About the Weather

Posted on: December 11, 2023

The last year or so has been a very rude awakening for many. Too many people today are so busy living a lifestyle, they forget that emergencies may need to be dealt with. It's all too easy to take one's cash flow for granted and get lulled into the belief that it will go on uninterrupted. Those who are best able to handle the financial rainy days that inevitably come along are in the habit of living well below their means and paying themselves first.

Tags: 
financial strategies

Avoid the Boomer-Widow Financial Syndrome

Posted on: December 11, 2023

It is seldom planned or wished for, but it is a reality and something that requires discussion - the illness and/or death of a spouse or partner. As the so-called Baby Boomer generation ages, there is a marked increase in widows suddenly left with financial situations that they do not fully understand. There are others who are forced to financially self-educate while providing quality of care for a partner that previously, and perhaps solely, took care of that role.

Tags: 
estate planning

Year End Tax Planning Ideas

Posted on: November 13, 2023

With the year's end fast approaching, here are some ideas to minimize your 2023 tax bill.

The first idea is to look at harvesting any tax losses in an investment portfolio to help offset any capital gains you may have triggered. Even if there are no capital gains, non-registered tax losses can be applied to previous year tax returns to generate a tax refund. Or capital losses can be carried forward indefinitely and used against future capital gains. Just remember to keep track of those figures as CRA may not do so.

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tax planning

Five Pillars of Financial Literacy

Posted on: November 13, 2023

November is financial literacy month - a great time to reflect on your relationship with money and the decisions you make that guide you toward a secure future. Financial literacy is a set of five key skills that help Canadians navigate the complex world of personal finance with clarity, empowering them to achieve their important financial goals. These key pillars of financial literacy typically include the following:

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financial strategy
financial strategies

What if I Can't Look After My Affairs?

Posted on: November 13, 2023

Clarke owned a small business that employed three other people besides him. He had sole signing authority on his business bank account, and personally had a joint mortgage on his home with his wife, Lois. His car was registered in his name only. Clarke was generous with gifts on special occasions and holidays for his children and his wife, and supported several charities on a regular basis.

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eldercare
estate planning

All-Weather Investing

Posted on: October 9, 2023

There is almost always chatter in the media about the next possible correction or recession. The most recent buzz is about a possible US recession where Canada would likely follow suit. The chatter also includes opinions about a "soft" versus a "hard" landing, etc. The primary challenge for individuals trying to build wealth is that this background noise (chatter) has nothing to do with…you!

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investment planning

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