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In Volatile Times: The Continued Case for Dividends

July 15, 2022

The long-term case for dividend-paying equities continues to be compelling. During volatile markets, such as the times we are experiencing today, dividends can play a role in reducing overall portfolio risk and volatility. Over the longer term, increasing dividend payouts and the potential for compounded growth can make dividends an integral part of an investment portfolio. Here are some reasons to have confidence in the value of dividend- paying securities within your wealth management strategy: An integral component of long-term returns. Dividend-paying companies represent a significant part of long-term returns within the equity market. Over a period of 30 years, from 1992 to 2022, the compounding effect of dividends on the S&P/TSX Composite Index has been profound — with reinvested dividends providing around half of total returns. On this basis, an investment of $10,000 would have yielded around $60,423 today on the index alone but around $126,934 if dividends were reinvested as based on the S&P/TSX Composite Total Return Index (chart below).1

May provide a reliable and steady cash flow stream that can be used for income, or reinvested. In today’s economic landscape of lower interest rates, slowing growth and an increasing number of retiring baby boomers, finding income may be more challenging. Dividends can help to provide a steady stream of income to an investor, or enhance income from other sources. Historically have provided greater protection in bear markets. Companies that consistently pay dividends year after year are generally seen as having robust economic health because they have excess cash with which to pay shareholders. Unhealthy companies generally do not have the position to provide dividends to shareholders. The dividend yield of a stock can provide a degree of downside protection as it reduces the potential impact of a decline in share price during economic downturns. Studies have also shown that dividend-paying stocks are a useful buffer when investors experience high degrees of volatility.2

A tax-efficient means of investing. Remember that not all income sources are treated equally by the tax authorities. Eligible dividends are one of the lowest-taxed sources of investment income in Canada, as compared to interest and regular income. This is due to the non-refundable tax credit applied to most “eligible dividends,” generally dividends issued by Canadian companies. Consider that for each dollar of dividend income received, an Ontario resident taxed at the highest marginal tax rate would keep about 14 cents more on every dollar of fully taxable income, which isn’t insignificant by any measure. (This assumes a 53.53 percent marginal tax rate and a 39.34 percent effective tax rate for eligible dividends.) Potential for dividend growth. Don’t overlook the potential impact of dividend growth. For many quality dividend-paying companies, dividends can steadily grow over time. Well- established dividend-paying companies can typically increase their dividend payouts from year to year. As we have seen this year, despite the turbulent markets, a variety of Canadian financial and energy companies have announced dividend increases. In short, we continue to advocate the benefits of quality, dividend- paying stocks as part of your wealth management plan. 1. S&P/TSX Composite Index and TR Index, 12/31/91 to 12/31/21; 2. Franklin Templeton Investments, “The Case for Dividend-Paying Equities in Today’s Market”.

The information contained herein has been provided for information purposes only. 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 has been provided by J. Hirasawa & Associates and is drawn from sources believed to be reliable. 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) and the authors do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein, nor does WAPW, nor the authors, 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 me for individual financial advice based on your personal circumstances. WAPW is a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund and the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada. ©️ 2023, Wellington-Altus Private Wealth Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO USE OR REPRODUCTION WITHOUT PERMISSION

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The opinions contained herein are the opinions of the author and readers should not assume they reflect the opinions or recommendations of Wellington-Altus Private Wealth. Assumptions, opinions and information constitute the author’s judgement as of the date this material and subject to change without notice. We do not warrant the completeness or accuracy of this material, and it should not be relied upon as such. Before acting on any recommendation, you should consider whether it is suitable for your particular circumstances and, if necessary, seek professional advice. Graphs and charts 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. All third party products and services referred to or advertised in this presentation are sold by the company or organization named. While these products or services may serve as valuable aids to the independent investor, WAPW does not specifically endorse any of these products or services. The third party products and services referred to, or advertised in this presentation, are available as a convenience to its customers only, and WAPW is not liable for any claims, losses or damages however arising out of any purchase or use of third party products or services. All insurance products and services are offered by life licensed advisors of Wellington-Altus.