Canadians are increasingly facing a retirement that may last 20, 30, or even more years. Building a financial plan that can support that reality requires careful consideration of income, investment strategy, taxes, health care costs, and lifestyle goals.
In a recent Globe and Mail feature, How to Build a Retirement Plan That Lasts Decades, Cresco Wealth Management’s Peter Kollias, shared his perspective on helping investors prepare for a retirement designed to withstand both longevity and market uncertainty.
One of the most important shifts in retirement planning is recognizing that retirement is no longer a short-term phase of life. As Peter noted:
“We want the money to outlive you.”
That philosophy starts by looking beyond investment returns and focusing on the life a retirement plan is intended to support. Questions around where you want to live, how you envision spending your time, and how future health care needs may affect your plans can all play an important role in determining whether your financial strategy is aligned with your long-term goals.
Retirement also doesn’t necessarily mean stepping away from growth-oriented investing. With many retirees potentially spending decades in retirement, portfolios often need to continue generating growth while also providing reliable income.
As Peter explained:
“It’s 30 years to build it, and then 30 years for maintenance going forward.”
The challenge is finding the right balance between preserving capital, generating income, and maintaining enough growth potential to help address inflation and longevity risk over time. The article notes that retirement portfolios may incorporate a mix of dividend-paying equities, bonds, annuities, and other investment strategies, depending on an investor’s objectives and circumstances.
Another key consideration is preparing for market volatility. A significant market decline early in retirement can be particularly challenging when withdrawals are already underway. To help manage this risk, Peter discussed the concept of building a “cash wedge” before retirement by setting aside low-risk assets that can help fund spending needs during periods of market stress.
Retirement planning today also involves coordinating multiple income sources, including Canadian Pension Plan, Old Age Security, workplace pensions, Registered Retirement Savings Plans, Registered Retirement Income Funds, Tax-Free Savings Accounts, and taxable accounts. Decisions around when to begin government benefits, how to structure withdrawals, and how to incorporate estate planning considerations can have a meaningful impact on long-term outcomes. While no financial plan can predict future markets, health outcomes, or lifespan, Peter emphasized the value of creating a strategy that can adapt as life changes.
When done well, he says retirement planning provides something that goes well beyond financial projections:
“Freedom.”
We’re proud to see Peter featured in The Globe and Mail and recognized for his insights on helping Canadians navigate the challenges and opportunities of a longer retirement.
Read the full article: How to Build a Retirement Plan That Lasts Decades