Canada Needs a Financial Plan

According to a July 23 publication by the Fraser Institute, we are getting poorer here in Canada and the prospects for economic growth are looking grim.  This should be of concern to every Canadian concerned about their “real income” – that’s their purchasing power – and by extension - their ability to fund consumption now and for important family milestones in the future:  retirements, education and homeownership.  It’s grim, but there are practical suggestions for a turn around plan. Here’s a synopsis of the report.   

November is financial literacy month, and it’s the perfect time to take advantage of educational opportunities before Knowledge Bureau’s December 15 registration deadline for Designation Programs.

The Ontario government released an economic statement on November 14 that reduces the small business tax rate, provides incentives for businesses with under 100 employees to hire 15 to 29 year olds and together with federal tax changes, significantly raises the marginal tax rates on passive income earned within a small business corporation upon distribution to individual shareholders.

In its first major tax reform in over 30 years, the United States is considering a package of tax changes that if passed into law, could significantly impact Canada’s ability to keep top talent and business ventures from moving across the border.

It’s financial literacy month and Canadians need help with debt management-badly.  Over half (52 per cent) of Canadians are only $200 away from insolvency according to a poll of 1,500 Canadians by insolvency consultancy MNP this spring.  It’s a highly valued service that tax and financial advisors can offer.

With the recently proposed tax reforms, more doors continue to close on opportunities for income-splitting between spouses. However, there is still one key strategy—the inter-spousal loan—that can minimize tax where one person in the couple earns significantly more than the other.

Last week, the 14th Distinguished Advisor Conference (DAC) took place in beautiful Kelowna. Please help us thank and acknowledge the incredible sponsors that helped bring this event to fruition, and the many Knowledge Bureau graduates who have offered their ongoing support - check out all the incredible speakers, networking and fun in the photo gallery!