By sharing some risks, workers can achieve higher investment returns By Robert Brown In a speech in Toronto recently, Kevin Sorensen, Minister of State for Finance, introduced details of a new “hybrid” pension plan proposed for all federal workers and other corporations under federal pension regulation. He referred to these proposed plans as Target Benefit
finance
Keep a Lid on Vacation Costs
By Jason Alderman Summer vacation is right around the corner. I’m not a big believer in pre-planning every single detail – sometimes the best vacation moments are spontaneous. But unless your rich uncle is paying for the trip, you’ll need to do a certain amount of preparation or your budget will fly out the window.
No Retirement Crisis in Canada
Plans to Expand Government Pensions Based on Faulty Assumptions By Philip Cross The Reality of Retirement in Canada With talks to expand the Canada Pension Plan having stalled, the Ontario government has pledged to roll out its own provincial version. The impulse for a ‘big CPP’ hinges on the assumption that Canadians are too ignorant
Traffic Tickets Can Ruin More Than Your Day
By Jason Alderman We all know that sinking feeling when you get pulled over for a traffic violation. If you’re lucky, you might just get a “fix-it” ticket for a broken tail light. But what if it was a more serious offense, like speeding or reckless driving? Depending on your driving record, you could get
Seniors: Be on High Alert for Scams
By Jason Alderman I look forward to the day when we no longer need to warn senior citizens about scams designed to separate them from their hard-earned money. I’m not holding my breath, however. According to the FBI, senior citizens make attractive targets for con artists for a variety of reasons: • They’re more likely
Critical Illness
The risk and consequences of a critical illness like a heart attack, stroke or cancer are elements of financial planning that are often overlooked. With increasing longevity, the probability of getting seriously ill has increased and fortunately so too have the chances of surviving
Turning your RRSP into a RIF
If you’re turning 71 this year, you’ll be required by law to mature your RRSP. There are essentially four ways to wind down your RRSP, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. You can (a) take a lump sum withdrawal, (b) purchase an annuity, (c) convert your RRSP to a RRIF (Registered Retirement Income Fund), or (d) some combination of these options.
Keeping your Principles AND Principal when Investing
Keeping your Principles AND Principal when Investing Being socially responsible in life is different for everyone—for some it means speaking publicly at City Hall to hold elected officials accountable; for others it means going to church every week; and for others it means taking responsibility for their own health so as not to be a