A key element of estate planning is choosing an executor, someone you trust to carry out the instructions in your will. To ensure that the administration of your estate is completed efficiently and economically, it’s important to carefully evaluate your needs and choose your executor wisely.
As we know, 2022 was a tough year in both the bond and equity markets. There were several events that created this environment, including: a wave of cash from COVID benefits drove spending, resulting in inflation and causing central bankers to raise interest rates rapidly; the war in Ukraine sent a shock around the world; and the continued lockdowns in China wreaked havoc on supply chains worldwide.
Can I still reach financial independence? What’s up with the markets? These are questions we all struggle with. It is a function of age. It is a function of debt (read mortgage), and it is also a function of desire. Desire means the propensity to save for your future.
Humans have three ways of dealing with conflict: fight, flight, or freeze. In this bear market, many investors might be in freeze mode, keeping cash on the sidelines as global markets continue their rough ride. In the first six months of 2022, the S&P 500 was down -20.6% while the Nasdaq dropped -29.5%. The S&P/TSX, MSCI Europe, and MSCI EAFE also fell -11.1%, -15.5%, and -21.0%, respectively during this same period.[1] Investors holding on to cash may be waiting to see what will happen with the following issues.
It would be nice to know that answer but when it comes to market timing, one of Zoe’s favourite quotes comes to mind: “You are either lucky or you’re wrong.” Big stock downturns are normal, albeit unpleasant. Since 1950, the S&P 500 index has fallen more than 20% from its high on ten different occasions.
Wow, like most, we got a pretty good shock this past weekend at the gas pump and the grocery store. Inflation in Canada is at a whopping 5.7%. The Bank of Canada’s (BOC) 2% target rate seems to be way in the rear-view mirror and to add insult to injury, the BOC boosted interest rates by 0.50% last week…make it stop.
The information contained herein has been provided for information purposes only. The information has been drawn from sources believed to be reliable. Graphs, charts and other numbers are used for illustrative purposes only and do not reflect future values or future performance of any investment. The information does not provide financial, legal, tax or investment advice. Particular investment, tax, or trading strategies should be evaluated relative to each individual’s objectives and risk tolerance. This does not constitute a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell securities of any kind. Market conditions may change which may impact the information contained in this document. Wellington-Altus Private Wealth Inc. (WAPW) does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein, nor does WAPW assume any liability for any loss that may result from the reliance by any person upon any such information or opinions. Before acting on any of the above, please contact your financial advisor.
© 2024, Wellington-Altus Private Wealth Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO USE OR REPRODUCTION WITHOUT PERMISSION.
