Newswire

Investing Resolutions

March 17, 2025

Resolve to Review Your Will

If you are looking for a financial resolution to start the year, why not make estate planning a priority?

Every so often we hear stories about the consequences of not having a valid will. To die without one, known as dying “intestate,” can have significant and perhaps unintended effects as assets will be distributed according to the rules set out by your province of residence. This can result in additional costs to the estate, such as a large tax bill that could have been reduced if better planned for. It can also lead to conflicts between loved ones who are left behind to sort out matters without direction. In addition, other tax-planning or succession plans may be compromised as a result. This would be unfortunate, as a valid will is comparatively inexpensive to put in place. Even if you do have a valid will in place, consider the importance of it reflecting your current circumstances, which points to the need for periodic reviews.

As we begin another year, take a look at the checklist below to see if any adjustments are needed to your final instructions. This isn’t meant to be a comprehensive list, but is intended to act as a starting point to determine whether a review might be useful. If you answer “no” or “don’t know” to any of the questions, perhaps a review is in order. it’s time well spent to take steps to ensure the validity of your will for the sake of your beneficiaries. It may also be a good time to review beneficiary designations for accounts or assets that do not pass through a will, which may include registered accounts (not applicable in QC) or insurance.

Why not resolve to make your estate plan a priority for 2025? If you need assistance, please call.

Recent Posts

August Market Insights: Beyond The AI Bottleneck

A leadership transition is already underway, but much of the market remains anchored to the last trade. Investors are still crowded into semiconductors, memory and artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure supported by passive flows and a sell-side that continues to extrapolate an era of outsized earnings surprises that has largely run its course.

Our Continuing Dependence on Oil: Will the Energy Landscape Shift?

The conflict with Iran served as an abrupt reminder of energy’s central role in global order. In the spring, the Strait of Hormuz exposed the risks of routing roughly 20 percent of global supply through a single chokepoint. The resulting disruptions not only drove fossil fuel prices sharply higher but also reinforced a consequence that extends well beyond economics: energy security is inseparable from national security.

What Jevons Paradox Tells Us About the World Around Us

In 1865, British economist William Jevons observed a seeming paradox with the rise of the steam engine and its effect on coal consumption. As coal use became more efficient, he expected total coal consumption to decline. Instead, it surged. This observation remains relevant to the world around us.

Challenging the Artificial Intelligence Job Apocalypse

Is artificial intelligence (AI) coming for your job? According to The Economist, one in three people believe AI will cause widespread job losses, while seven out of 10 believe it will make it harder for people to find work.

Are the Bond Markets Sending a Signal?

Many market observers have recently turned their attention to the fixed-income markets, as long-term government bond yields have risen to levels not observed in more than two decades. By the end of May, 10-year and 30-year U.S. Treasury yields had risen to levels last seen before the 2008 crisis. Japan’s long-end bond yields also surged to multi-decade highs. Even in Canada, government bond yields hit multi-year highs.

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.