Q – How do I figure out how much life insurance I need and what type of insurance to buy? – Ralph J., Ajax, Ontario A – To estimate how much life insurance you need, consider the following: The amount needed to pay off your debts; any final expenses and taxes that...
Q – What types of investments do you recommend to invest in, given the continued uncertainly in the stock market? I am looking for stocks that provide cash flow. – Jim W., Fort Erie, Ontario A – There is no question that in today’s markets, it’s a tough time to be...
We love our lattés. There’s no question about that. It’s what’s made Starbucks one of the most successful coffee shop chains in the world. But for that delicious creamy, foamy taste of coffee heaven, you’re paying…what? Most of us don’t even know and couldn’t tell...
Q – I am a 35 year old school bus driver and have very little savings in the bank. I would like to see my money grow, but I don’t like to take risks with what I already have. Can you recommend an investment that would be suitable? – Sue S., Woodstock, Ontario A – A...
Q – I am tired of seeing negative numbers on my quarterly performance reports. When I speak to my advisor, he assures me that I have done better than the “market” and that other people are worse off than me. Frankly, I do not care about “other people.” How can I...
Q – I am a 35-year-old single female, and I have a good grasp of investing. I currently hold all my investments through a self-directed brokerage. I do need help with some planning, and I have met with a few potential advisors. But most want my investments to...
Q – I am getting set to retire this September. I’ve held the same job at an automotive manufacturer for 20 years. Lately I have begun to worry about the amount of savings I have for the future. I am now 70 years old and have set financial parameters in my financial...
Q – My husband and I are young newlyweds, and we are in the process of starting to look for our first home. We were preapproved by my bank, but now the rules have changed. How will the new mortgage rules affect me? – June R., Niagara Falls, Ontario A – The bottom...
Q – I am worried about protecting my income during retirement. At the same time, I want to leave something to my grandchildren in my will. I’ve heard that annuities can provide a guaranteed stream of income. But once the annuity is paid out, there won’t be much...
Q – We’ve often heard the old market saying, “Sell in May and go away.” What is your opinion about this? Do you recommend it as a strategy? – Mark N., Guelph, Ontario A – Catchy little bits of old market lore like this have become so ingrained that they’re often...
Q – My wife and I own our own home. We have been diligent about paying down our mortgage but at the cost of investing in the equity markets. Our house is fully paid for now, and we are both in our mid-40s. What is your advice on how to start investing in the...
Q – I am planning for my retirement and would like some advice on inflation. What rate of return should I aim for to cover inflation and still see some investment growth over the span of my retirement? – Candice S., Toronto, Ontario A – Inflation referrers to the...