Opportunity: Canadian Dollar Stabilizes, Somewhat

Things have started to turn around for the Canadian dollar in the second quarter of 2025. It hit a 22 year low in January of 2025. Investors and property owners, who have been swooning at the high burn rate in their travel plans and property maintenance abroad, may wish to consider recent more positive trends and consider some risk mitigation opportunities now that the dollar is stabilizing somewhat.  

Despite trends leaning towards an increase in self-employment over the next few years, the current state of the economy has some Canadians questioning whether it’s the smart financial choice for them. According to a new report from Paynet’s Canadian Small Business Lending Index, the potential for private business growth is positive, making self-employment a smart choice for those considering taking the leap.

The Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) recently proposed expanded guidelines on registrants’ obligations to act in a client’s best interests and on its proposals regarding embedded commissions. Knowledge Bureau is pleased to announce that Ian Russell, President and CEO of the Investment Industry Association of Canada (IIAC) will provide expert commentary on the matter at the Distinguished Advisor Conference November 10-14 in Quebec City.

Summertime moves make sense for many families, as they can ensure the kids are well established to start in their new schools by fall. The moving process can be hectic, but it also creates lucrative tax deductions – so keep your receipts and documentation to take advantage. Here are seven moving-related tax tips for expense claims that every Canadian needs to know!

Last year, following a bitter public controversy, the CRA re-assessed 2,267 rejected claims from diabetics applying for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). The good news? Now 1,326 have now been approved – that’s 58 percent! But these Canadians will wait up to 30 weeks for refunds; an issue that has prompted a further Senate response.

The way we work in Canada is changing: statistics show that 20 to 30 percent of the current workforce consists of “gig workers”: freelancers and other self-employed classifications. But that number will rise by 2020. Is it a good choice? Nearly 60 percent of last month’s poll respondents said “yes.”

Volatility is cited as the largest threat to the financial markets and 73 percent of advisors involved in the Natixis Investment Managers 2018 Global Financial Professionals Survey believe this will affect performance. Close to 90 percent believe their primary role is to help clients get through the emotional roller coaster – and their success increasingly hinges on this skillset as economic uncertainty rises.