The Evolving Trade War: Is A Recession Looming
When the U.S. launched a trade war in January, many were quick to warn of a possible recession. With Canada’s economy already growing at a sluggish pace – GDP growth is projected at just 1.8 percent for 2025 – the Bank of Canada estimated that a blanket 25 percent tariff would reduce annual GDP growth […]
Even The Good Years Have Down Times
While many aspects of investing in the equity markets may seem unpredictable, one constant remains: volatility. Just how common are market fluctuations? Even in years when the S&P/TSX Composite Index has performed well, we should expect substantial volatility. Over the past 40 years, despite average annual performance of more than 6 percent, the average intra-year […]
Four Perspectives on the Investment Impact of the U.S. Election
Politics and money are never far apart. Election years frequently bring about questions surrounding changes to public policies, potential regulatory shifts and the ensuing effects on the markets and economy. This year’s U.S. election has been no exception, with investors keeping a close eye on possible changes that could influence industries, sectors and the overall […]
Half Full or Half Empty?
How do you view the glass – half full or half empty? This question aptly captures the dual nature of sentiment today. On one hand, our standard of living is among the highest in history, fuelled by technological advances, improved quality of life, substantial and growing wealth and increased life expectancy. On the other hand, […]
During Uncertain Times: Access to Alternatives
In the current environment of higher valuations, slower growth, and increased volatility, there’s been a renewed attention to alternative investments. Alternatives are often given focus during more challenging times since their performance doesn’t typically correlate with the markets. Alternatives generally refer to investments not available in publicly-traded markets. Most commonly, this includes private equity, infrastructure, […]
Does the Dow Matter? What’s in an Index
The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA or Dow) is one of the most widely watched stock market indices and the second oldest in the world. Created in 1986 by Charles Dow, then editor of the Wall Street Journal, it originally comprised 12 companies from traditional heavy industries, such as Chicago Gas and National Lead, giving […]
Dow at One Million?
When the Dow Jones Industrial Average (Dow) crossed a new high of 40,000 in May, it achieved a milestone that appeared implausible given recent popular sentiment. Just two years earlier, central banks were still on the path of aggressively hiking rate to curb inflation. Gloomy equity market forecasts abounded. Fast forward to today, and interest […]
Spring Cleaning Finances: Five Questions to Ask
Now that spring has sprung many of us are in spring cleaning mode, perhaps you are looking for a bit of motivation when it comes to your finances. Here are five wealth planning questions that may be answered by simple “rules of thumb.” These may spark meaningful discussions about wealth management, budgeting, or family and […]
Video: Types of Portfolio
Investing Within Your Corporation
For business owners or incorporated practitioners that generate surplus funds not required to meet personal lifestyle needs or the needs of the business or practice, the question becomes how to maximize the value of these funds? As personal marginal tax rates can be significant, does it make sense to simply invest the surplus funds within […]