Foreign Currencies Gains and Losses

As we all know, it’s been a roller coaster week in tariff news. The Canadian dollar started to sink, although not to its lowest historical level-yet. The 30 day pause in implementation of the U.S. tariffs has provided a wake up call: What effect will such a Black Swan event have on portfolios and, by extension, retirement plans?

Possibly even more dreaded than the tax filing season is the tax audit season! But, when you know your taxpayer rights and have confidence that your records are audit-proof, you are empowered to face any audit knowing you’ve done your due-diligence. Working with an experienced tax specialist is a good defence, too.

Invest in your continuing professional development for 2019, by marking your calendars for Knowledge Bureau’s 2019 live events. May is chock full of great events starting with the Vantage Series that took place this morning in Toronto. Next up: the CE Summits that begin at the end of the month. This tour features brand new sponsor CIBC, cross border expert Dr. Dean Smith, long term care planning expert Karen Henderson, and a post-budget overview for 2019 from Knowledge Bureau President Evelyn Jacks.

Lorne Jackson, Knowledge Bureau Undergraduate, CFP, CEA, CKA, and President of the Canadian National Christian Foundation (CNCF), Financial Discipleship Canada works with over 40 Canadian registered charities. After 25 years in the financial services industry, Lorne sold his company and left the "for profit" world in 2002 to create the CNCF, and recently decided to take the Introduction to Strategic Philanthropy certificate course with Knowledge Bureau.

Running out of money or the inability to maintain a desired standard of living is a very familiar concern for most Canadians. It’s an issue that needs to be addressed, not only by the government, but also by wealth planners who have an opportunity to work with senior clients in overcoming the obstacles they face.

April 30 was the filing deadline for most Canadians who wish to avoid penalties and interest on outstanding taxes due starting on May 1. But the CRA has extended tax filing relief to the victims of the devastating floods in Eastern Canada. Knowledge Bureau students will also be granted extensions on their studies. Here is what to do to obtain relief:

Knowledge Bureau’s April poll asked tax professionals whether they think it’s fair that EI contribution amounts will go up for both taxpayers and businesses to fund the Canada Training Benefit proposed in Budget 2019. It’s a topic that proved to be controversial, but you’ll have to read on to learn whether the majority were for or against this EI enhancement.