Kim is a regularly published national columnist
Kim Inglis is a contributing columnist for the National Post and Financial Post, as well as the regular financial columnist for a number of community newspapers. Her work has been featured in most major newspapers across Canada. A winner of the Five Star Wealth Management Award, Kim is a leader in her industry.
Kim's goal is to help readers by providing information in a wide range of topics that is both easy to comprehend and helpful. And, she believes people prefer straight talk so that's the approach she uses in her writing.
You can receive future newspaper columns and newsletters in your mailbox.
JAN
31
2012
RRSPs: It pays to do your homework
Managing your RRSP investments requires much more than simply putting your money in and waiting for the tax refund. There are many techniques that can be used to enhance your RRSP's impact on your long-term financial picture, and Kim describes a few of them.
JAN
24
2012
Insurance needs for small business owners
Small business owners who worry about what would happen to their family and their business if they were unable to work, should consider insurance as part their business plans. Kim shows how insurance can address a variety of risk management issues.
JAN
19
2012
Holding companies can benefit small business owners
Efficient tax planning is a key element in the survivability of any small business. The use of holding companies can have significant tax advantages and, as Kim shows, it may also provide benefits such as creditor protection, income splitting and succession planning.
JAN
05
2012
Never too early to start teaching kids about money
Children's life lessons come from many sources and home may be the most important when learning how to handle money. It is important that parents teach children about the value of good money management and Kim provides thoughts on how it could be done.
DEC
21
2011
It is better to give and receive
December is a time for the celebration of friendship and for sharing. As Canadians express their goodwill and generosity by giving to those less fortunate, Kim reminds them that philanthropy can be managed to improve benefits for both the recipient and the donor.
DEC
07
2011
Make the most of your tax losses
Capital gains tax impacts are inevitable on successful non-registered investments but they can be reduced using a technique called tax loss selling. It is the one time when investors can benefit from 'selling low' but, as Kim cautions, this strategy requires careful thinking.
NOV
22
2011
Tax planning key to small business success
Smaller businesses face many challenges, so it's important to use every planning tool. Holding companies have potential benefits such as tax efficiency, creditor protection, income splitting and succession planning, and Kim examines some of the intricacies.
NOV
10
2011
Insured annuities help mitigate market volatility
Market volatility is most gut-wrenching for investors in or near retirement. While full investment in equities may not be suitable, neither can cash income satisfy retirement goals. Kim suggests Insured Annuities to reduce the worry of outliving retirement funds.
NOV
09
2011
Buy-and-hold the most basic ETF strategy
When investing in ETFs some investors like the buy and hold approach because it's easy. But, as Kim points out, ETF investing can use other approaches to achieve such strategic advantages as asset allocation, volatility reduction and portfolio completion.
OCT
12
2011
Be choosy when choosing an advisor
Selecting a financial advisor is a critical decision that should be made with as much care as choosing any other professional. Needs vary according to individual investors, and Kim provides a number of points to consider in finding the right match for your portfolio.
OCT
11
2011
The advantages of Exchange-Traded Funds
As ETFs have grown in popularity, investors have enjoyed their benefits in bull and bear markets. Kim explains the advantages of ETFs and how the benefits apply. She adds that, while some ETFs may offer simplification, investing principles remain important.
SEP
15
2011
Delegation can make a difference
In a fast-paced financial world delegation makes a difference, and an increasing number of investors are looking to discretionary portfolio management services. Kim shows how the delegation of day-to-day investment decisions can provide advantages for many investors.
SEP
14
2011
Safety in pipelines and utilities
When markets are volatile there is wisdom in taking a defensive approach. Kim thinks investors should consider Canadian pipelines and utilities because they tend to outperform during downturns and they provide significant advantages, including tax efficiency.
AUG
18
2011
Fee-based investing can save money
The fee-based account pricing model is growing in popularity with many investors for whom it has advantages, and Kim writes about several. However, this fee structure isn't for everyone and the crucial point is that you should receive value in exchange for fees paid.
AUG
17
2011
Too many advisor cooks can spoil a portfolio
Investors often begin with good rationale for using several advisors to administer their portfolios but, as financial situations increase in complexity, consolidation can be more advantageous. Kim describes some benefits of uniting accounts under a single advisor.
JUL
21
2011
The challenge of meeting retirement needs
Canadians are living longer, but a greater life expectancy requires more retirement income. Kim points out that, in addressing that challenge, there are five key risks that must be considered strategically in developing plans for a properly funded retirement.
JUL
07
2011
A different kind of business insurance
Many small business owners face huge financial and operational challenges when they lose key people. The consequences can be catastrophic. Kim says insurance is available to guard against the injurious effects, and even provide additional benefits for the business.
JUL
06
2011
Solid U.S. equities still shining
The U.S. faces difficult times but that doesn't mean investors don't have opportunities there. Kim thinks long-range investors should consider defensive, high-quality U.S. equities that have a broader focus than their home markets. The value is with the global leaders.
JUN
22
2011
Think about your mutual fund investments
Investors like mutual funds for their simplicity. And, for smaller portfolios, they provide a level of diversity hard to achieve with individual securities. However mutual funds still require care in choice and in monitoring their performance. Kim provides reasons.
MAY
30
2011
Individual Pension Plans good for over 40 crowd
IPPs are defined benefit pension plans that use tax deductible contributions to achieve pre-determined income streams in retirement. Kim notes they are becoming very popular with high-income individuals, business owners and incorporated professionals.
MAY
20
2011
Declining costs make trusts more available
Due to costs, trusts have traditionally been viewed as planning tools for the rich. However expenses have been decreasing and, as Kim points out, the increased accessibility has made trusts popular with families who want flexibility in tax and estate planning.
APR
28
2011
Forestry may finally pay off for investors
Timber has a tradition of being a hedge against inflation and of providing stable risk-adjusted returns, with many companies offering solid dividends. Kim supplies data from analysts indicating that the forestry industry is on the way to growth and higher prices.
APR
21
2011
Green investment options
Investors will always want to meet ecological investment objectives while owning good stocks. It begins with an understanding of what a "green" portfolio means to them, so Kim provides options that should help investors decide on an approach to sustainable investing.
APR
06
2011
Max out education savings
Because education costs are constantly escalating, there is wisdom in developing strategies that combine the advantages of RRSPs, TFSAs and RESPs. Kim explains how the right linkages can enhance education savings with free money accompanying tax advantages.
MAR
15
2011
Dividend yields an easy way to profit
Investors should consider dividend investing if they want tax efficiency, defensive positioning and superior total returns on a lower risk basis compared to the overall market. Kim explains why and provides analyst picks of high-quality, high-dividend companies.
MAR
03
2011
Energy trusts still a good bet
The conversion of income trusts created corporations with growth and yield oriented business models and a new income stream. The exploration and production energy trusts (E&Ps) merit a close look, so Kim discusses them and provides analysts' recommendations.
FEB
24
2011
TFSAs ignored out of confusion
Less than half of eligible Canadians have opened a TFSA even though they offer many advantages. Kim explains how the TFSA has something for everyone – from the young person starting a career to the high cash-flow investor, and from families to retirees.
FEB
05
2011
Tax form hints for RRSPs
Many investors make regular RRSP contributions through payroll deductions and put the tax refund into their RRSPs. But the CRA has a way to effectively get the refund sooner and, as Kim explains, it gives those investors an opportunity to benefit from earlier investing.
FEB
02
2011
Uncover hidden money for your RRSP
Setting up a proper budget is a good way of finding money to invest in an RRSP, but many people aren't sure how to start. It is most important for people to first think about how their money is spent, and Kim believes they can learn from a method used in business.
JAN
08
2011
Dividends pay real dividends
Many investors are so focussed on making gains through stock appreciation that they overlook an important contributor to portfolio growth: dividends. Dividends may not be as exciting as buying and selling but, according to Kim, they're a key element in total returns.
JAN
01
2011
Pros and cons of flow-through shares
Taxation legislation allows early-stage resource company expenses to "flow through" to investors as deductions against their own income. These investments can be a good tax-planning tool but, as Kim explains, they are neither simple nor suitable for all investors.
DEC
11
2010
Global energy outlook sizzling
Much of our economy depends on commodities and, while growth and debt problems exist in several industrialized countries, investors should think beyond the near-term. As Kim points out, the global energy outlook has promise for those with a long-range perspective.
DEC
02
2010
More than one way to give to charity
A recent survey shows that Canadians are a very generous people who believe in giving back to their communities. While many people still use cash to give, Kim thinks investors should consider some other ways of giving that benefit both donors and the recipients.
NOV
16
2010
Sell duds now and beat the rush
Investors who wait until December to do their tax-loss selling miss the advantages of advance planning. Kim describes some benefits of an early start and explains why, with rising markets this year, investors might consider other sources of supply for good buys.
NOV
01
2010
Tax advantage in dual structure
Tax efficiency, creditor protection, income splitting and succession planning are among the potential benefits small business owners can reap from establishing holding companies. Kim explains why qualified individuals should consider some of these opportunities.
OCT
23
2010
Put uranium on your radar screen
As governments around the world seek ways to meet increasing demands for energy without fossil fuel emissions, nuclear power is emerging as a solution. That increases the importance of uranium, so Kim provides background and thoughts for investors to consider.
OCT
09
2010
Strip bonds laid bare
Strip bonds are excellent fixed-income vehicles for long term investors, but many shy away because they don't understand them. While explaining differences between traditional bonds and strip bonds, Kim also provides figures to demonstrate their compounding power.
SEP
25
2010
DRIPs more than a drop in the bucket
A long-term portfolio strategy includes investments to generate income and tax advantages. Investors not needing dividend cash right away can use Dividend Reinvestment Plans (DRIPs) to buy shares cost-effectively. Kim describes some of the benefits of DRIPs.
SEP
04
2010
Emotions a hazard to portfolios
Emotions are detrimental to portfolio health, but investor emotions follow predictable cycles and should be manageable. Kim describes how they have affected decision-making recently, and suggests how rules and discipline can be used to reduce their effect.
SEP
03
2010
Check GICs before you buy
Economic forecasters are predicting bearish activity, so investors should prepare for near-term volatility while keeping cash ready to take advantage of opportunities. GICs are one way to store cash but, as Kim points out, there are cautions and there are other options.
SEP
02
2010
Examining mutual funds to maximize performance
Mutual funds can assist in portfolio diversification but there are cautions. Investors should watch for red flags like fees and sales charges, overlapping holdings and excessive investment in proprietary products. Kim talks about the problems and suggests solutions.
JUL
31
2010
Real estate without bricks
The return of healthy fundamentals in the office and industrial markets are positive indicators for Real Estate Investment Trusts. Kim thinks that these factors, combined with a lot of cash on their books, make Canadian REITs attractive to investors wanting income.
JUL
22
2010
Insured annuities offer a myriad of benefits
A major worry for older investors is whether they have the timelines to recover from future market volatility. Some are investing in fixed income products that pay too little to sustain retirement goals. Kim recommends a look at the distinct advantages of insured annuities.
JUL
01
2010
What HST means for your portfolio
The HST in Ontario and BC increases taxes on investment funds. Mutual fund companies are having to implement blended rates which affect all of a fund's investors, even those not in an HST province. Kim suggests options to reduce the HST effect on investment funds.
JUN
26
2010
GICs aren't as simple as they seem
Investors have been investing in GICs to generate regular growth and smooth out portfolio fluctuations. Kim says that secure investing is always a sound idea but it should be thoughtful. She offers tips, and details a strategy for maximizing GIC returns safely.
JUN
10
2010
Contrarians win when confidence down
With bearish sentiment prevailing, investors have been fleeing the markets. However some are instead adhering to the Warren Buffet maxim: "Be fearful when others are greedy, and be greedy when others are fearful." But the basic premise remains: Always buy quality.
MAY
20
2010
European stocks at bargain levels
Pessimistic headlines have investors worried about the state of the Eurozone, resulting in significant capitulation. But Kim suggests that if investors calmly assess leading indicators and other factors, particularly in Germany, they can find investment opportunities.
MAY
08
2010
Flow-throughs for taxes
Investors may use flow-through shares in tax planning as they are typically deductible up to 100% of the amount invested but, because these shares carry risk, Kim suggests they're most suitable for investors with a high marginal tax rate and a high risk tolerance.
MAY
01
2010
Beware of on-line stranger's advice
Because the Internet is considered analogous to a library, investors can too easily trust advice found there. The Internet may have good information but it also has scam artists and, as Kim points out, acting on their advice can have serious negative consequences.
APR
14
2010
Exchange-traded fund strategies
Exchange-trade funds (ETFs) are growing in popularity with investors who want reasonably passive investing, flexibility and low cost market returns. Kim provides versatile strategies to achieve appropriate asset allocation while constructing an ETF portfolio.
APR
01
2010
Fixed income funds attracting those who missed the recovery
Long-term portfolio planning should include sustainable income generating products to provide a consistent income flow and reduce volatility and, like other assets, they should be properly diversified. Kim offers some thoughts for a multi-strategy approach.
MAR
27
2010
Keep your faith in income trusts
Many income trusts plan to convert into corporations prior to implementation of the SIFT tax in 2011. It is one of the issues non-registered income trust investors must consider in deciding which to hold through conversion. Kim assists with a sector by sector analysis.
FEB
26
2010
A savings plan good for life
There are reasons to invest in RRSPs, in addition to saving for retirement, but polls show that Canadians are not taking advantage of them. Kim points out some of the alternative ways that RRSP savings can be used to help achieve other important family goals.
FEB
13
2010
Life is unpredictable, so have a backup plan
It's never pleasant to contemplate awful events, but the unexpected can destroy financial plans. Kim believes investors must ponder such things, and it starts by asking themselves how they would support family and plans if their ability to earn a living stopped suddenly.
FEB
05
2010
Beware the 'F' word: Fees
It is important that we think carefully about all aspects of our investments, but too few investors think about their fees and how to limit their impact on portfolio performance. Kim focuses on some areas for thought and generates ideas for reducing the fees you pay.
JAN
22
2010
Women earners entitled to a fresh approach
Studies show that women have the right attributes to be excellent investors but often don't recognize their strengths or the need to build on them. Kim describes some of these characteristics and points to reasons women should do more to protect their future.
DEC
29
2009
Clear plan crucial for next decade
2009 saw the end of an astonishing market correction, which was followed by an equally phenomenal rally. There is always value in learning from the past and, as we enter the new decade, Kim describes a few of the lessons that 2009 provided for investors.
DEC
22
2009
For those seeking growth, income
Convertible debentures are one approach for investors wanting an income stream as well as exposure to equities but, as Kim cautions, you need to be well diversified with a moderate to high risk tolerance. She outlines a few pros and cons of these investments.
DEC
10
2009
Don't let inflation erode your portfolio's value
Some investors remain cautious about the markets and are holding cash in money market funds where inflation erodes them. Kim says that, while investors wait for the right evidence of recovery, there are alternatives that provide hedges against inflation.
NOV
28
2009
Giving to charities a win-win in hard times
Funding for charitable organizations is decreasing as the demand for their services increases. Investors' philanthropy can help their financial plans as well as giving aid to others. Kim offers several ideas for integrating charitable giving and financial planning.
NOV
12
2009
Embracing market volatility
Some think of market volatility as an investor's enemy. Kim suggests that, if an investor's approach encompasses a focus on valuation and rational planning, volatility can be a friend. She offers thoughts on how cool heads can use market excursions to long-term advantage.
OCT
31
2009
Canadians not exploiting the TFSA
Many investors are not maximizing their tax-free savings accounts, simply using them as savings vehicles. Kim offers ideas for using TFSAs to reduce taxation on high yield products or growth vehicles, as well as recommendations that can benefit retired seniors.
OCT
27
2009
Start your tax-loss selling now
Investors normally conduct tax-loss selling in December but this year it may be wise to start earlier. Kim believes that improved timing and a tactical approach to tax-loss selling is not only wise but also defensively positions a portfolio in this uncertain environment.
OCT
01
2009
Investors on the sidelines
The 2009 rally was more vigorous than pundits predicted, and some investors missed it. They now have tough choices. Kim cautions against rash moves and suggests that, when significant upside has been missed, investors should think about an income strategy.
SEP
16
2009
Leveraged exchange-traded funds can be risky
Leveraged and inverse-leveraged ETFs are gaining popularity with retail investors but Kim does not recommend them. ETFs are not all created equal and these can be risky if investors don’t comprehend how they work or how the underlying benchmarks are derived.
SEP
03
2009
Desperate times call for calculated measures
Some investors are trying to recoup losses with overly risky approaches and no strategies when, as Kim points out, a cool head and sober assessment should be used. Rational planning and analysis must not be replaced with irrational reaction to market swings.
AUG
18
2009
Don't forget exit points
There is debate on the future of the recent rally. Kim believes that you should be prepared for market corrections by adhering to a strategy that includes reassessing your risk tolerance, researching buying opportunities, and setting appropriate entry and exit points.
AUG
06
2009
Emerging market growth tied to technology
There are predictions of major growth for China next year. Chinese incomes have risen significantly and Beijing is implementing plans to boost economic growth by encouraging consumer spending. Kim believes technology companies in particular have much to gain.
JUL
30
2009
Putting your advisor under scrutiny
The news media have run a number of stories about investors who suffered serious losses because of dishonest advisors. Kim shows investors how to get a better understanding of their portfolio management by asking questions of themselves and their advisors.
JUL
09
2009
Lessons learned from top investment gurus
Prominent investment leaders all have unique styles but they approach investing with consistency in their core philosophies. Kim describes some important lessons we can learn from these gurus, and use in our own portfolio strategies.
JUL
02
2009
Time for fund housekeeping
Mutual funds are not a 'buy and forget' investment. In fact, there are many aspects to them that should be reviewed closely and regularly. Kim highlights some key elements that the mutual fund owner should examine to help ensure alignment with investing goals.
JUN
11
2009
Finesse required for Estate Planning
As important as it is to increase your wealth, it is equally important to protect its transfer to your beneficiaries. A growing estate faces a growing potential tax liability that can be huge. Kim shows how Estate Planning can reduce the impact of the tax losses.
MAY
28
2009
Giving to support charities, maximize benefits
Canadians choose to help others in many ways, from volunteering to writing cheques. Many of those who give money will want to ensure they maximize the benefits of their philanthropy for both the recipients and for tax reduction. Kim demonstrates one method.
MAY
19
2009
Gold the only asset that did its job
Gold got much criticism in 2008 despite the fact that it outperformed the broad markets. Stock market indexes dropped while gold finished the year up 4%. With inflation a possibility, Kim explains why investors should consider bullion as a hedge against it.
APR
30
2009
Whose advice is best for you?
Discount or Full-Service? There are many aspects to consider and a wrong decision can cause unhappiness. As Kim points out, the important question is: "What's right for you?" - which can only be answered by closely examining all aspects of the issue.
APR
16
2009
Dividends the Safest Route Back Into Markets
For investors wanting to re-enter the markets cautiously, Kim explains how Canadian dividend-paying utilities not only provide a defensive approach but also offer income, tax advantages and room for growth in share value.
MAR
23
2009
Close Your Till to Counterfeiters
When the economy is ailing scammers get more active and one of their favourite targets is the small business owner. Fortunately losses to scammer thieves can be reduced. Kim talks about scammer techniques and lets you know where to get free training for your staff.
MAR
18
2009
Follow Head, Not Heart
Many people have suffered portfolio losses that might have been avoided if proper checks had been in place to remove emotion from decision-making. A well-defined strategic plan is the most important piece in achieving financial success, and Kim explains why.
MAR
05
2009
A ‘Green’ Firm Is Usually A Well-managed One
There are important reasons other than ‘because they are green’ to invest in companies who achieve both sustainability and profitability goals. As Kim points out, this combination of successes indicates the likelihood of solid management in charge.
FEB
26
2009
A Closer Look At Preferred Shares
Preferred shares are a hybrid between a common share and a bond and some investors look to them for income. Like other investments you must do your homework and Kim points out a few things to watch for.
FEB
05
2009
Green Investing Still Pays
Sustainability goals are not at odds with good business practices and a little green in your portfolio may help it grow. Kim points out a number of hard-nosed business reasons that some blue chips are going green.
JAN
28
2009
Look For Yield In Dividend Stocks
A lot of cash is sitting on the sidelines. History shows that when cash starts moving back into the markets the bull comes with it. Kim suggests ways to generate some income as we wait out the near-term volatility.
JAN
08
2009
Let Simplicity be Your Guide – A History Lesson
It’s been said that if we don’t learn from history we’re doomed to repeat our mistakes. Kim looks to the speeches of President Franklin Roosevelt and finds analogies with events today, and lessons to remember.
JAN
08
2009
A Good Time to Follow Graham’s Principles
Kim refers us to the teachings of Benjamin Graham, the father of value investing, for guidance during volatile times. Buying right with strict adherence to the principles of fundamental analysis is always good advice.
DEC
24
2008
Kick-starting your financial plan
Year-end is a good time for relaxing with friends and family. It’s also a good time to think about whether your portfolio is still in sync with your financial goals. Kim provides a few questions for you
to ponder.
DEC
11
2008
‘Buy and Hold’ Revisited
With investors continuing to be nervous in volatile markets Kim looks to the teachings of Benjamin Graham, the father of value investing, for a lesson in picking stocks that weather the storms.
NOV
15
2008
Hedge funds triggered the vortex of panic
It may be easy to find the obvious causes of downward pressure in the markets but, as Kim explains, it’s important to look beyond the apparent answers in order to find the less visible forces.
OCT
30
2008
Questioning Fees Is Always Sound Advice
Advisor fees affect the bottom line of your portfolio and you should be sure to have a full and frank discussion about them. Kim believes you should ask many questions and expect black and white answers.
OCT
16
2008
Insured Annuities – Making a Difference in Retirement
Seniors over 60 in good health can do better than straight annuities. With insured annuities they can receive guarantees of higher income, lower taxes, capital preservation and tax-free transfer to their estates.
OCT
04
2008
Nothing to fear but fear itself
Some people are not sleeping well because they worry about market volatility. Kim explains why the worry is unnecessary with a well-planned portfolio stocked with the right investments and timeline.
OCT
02
2008
Responsible investing requires patience
A reader expresses interest in SRI but doesn’t know where to begin. Kim provides pointers along with some specific thoughts on funds and directly investing in both blue chip and small cap companies.
SEP
18
2008
Sustainable Investing: A Solid Option
Some people dismiss SRI as a tree-hugger movement that is neither productive nor profitable. Kim begs to differ using a very successful retailer as an example - with tips on selecting the right green funds.
SEP
04
2008
Keep Investment Approach Rational in Volatile Times
Some people are not sleeping well because they worry about market volatility. Kim explains why the worry is unnecessary with a well-planned portfolio stocked with the right investments and timeline.
AUG
21
2008
Investing In The Olympics
A reader asks about benefits arising from the Olympic Games, and Kim responds with thoughts about the Olympic Partner Programme companies and why some of them might be good investments.
AUG
07
2008
Flexibility for Your Portfolio
Some investors worry about volatility while others seek opportunities in it. Kim says that, no matter which side you are on, you have choices – with options available both to capitalize and to reduce risk.
JUL
24
2008
Protecting Your Portfolio
A reader worries about the roller coaster market. Kim explains that, while markets may have turbulence, there are products and services that people require and which prosper in both up and down markets.
JUL
10
2008
REITS: A Good Hedge In Volatile Times
Real estate investors who only buy and sell properties can lose when property values drop. Kim explains that there are ways to invest in real estate markets yet remain safe, liquid, and properly diversified.
JUN
26
2008
Finding the Best Place to Park Your Money
GICs, bonds, and money market funds may not be the best place to keep your cash while you decide on investing. Kim suggests secure high-interest options that are preferable.
JUN
12
2008
Tax Loss Decisions Require Careful Thought
Offsetting capital gains and reducing your tax bill requires careful analysis and planning. Tax season may be a long way off but it’s better if planning is done sooner rather than later.
MAY
29
2008
Controlling Investment Fees
It’s easy to overpay in investment fees. Kim explains how they work and why you need to think about what is best, and least expensive, for you. You need to get it clear with your advisor.
MAY
15
2008
Agriculture Stocks, Funds Take Off
Feeding the world will require capital to invest in agricultural research. You can help by investing, through direct exposure such as stocks or less expensively through agricultural ETFs.
MAY
01
2008
Living Beyond Our Means
Proliferation of easy credit has created a real debt-load mess in Canadian society. Kim provides background and shows how we can learn a lot from the example set by our predecessors.
APR
17
2008
Are DSC Funds Right For You?
On the surface, Deferred Sales Charges sound like a really good idea. Kim exposes some decided disadvantages that the mutual fund salesperson probably didn’t tell you about.
APR
03
2008
Managed Accounts Provide Flexibility
Kim explains how to get a basket of investment assets with ownership of the underlying securities and institutional-calibre portfolio management, but not the downsides of mutual funds.
MAR
08
2008
Shop Around For Best Fixed Return Investment Option
Fixed return investments are not all created equal, and we need to apply strategic and tactical thinking to that part of our portfolios. It is thinking best not left to a financial institution.
FEB
21
2008
Protecting A Most Important Asset
We take care choosing our investments, and care in protecting them along with our other properties, but Kim thinks we often forget to protect a key asset – our ability to keep earning.
FEB
07
2008
Educating Kids About Money
We spend time thinking about our budgets and investments but are we forgetting to pass important lessons on to our children? Kim has some thoughts and suggestions.
JAN
24
2008
Keeping Your Portfolio Balanced
It would be hard to overstate the importance of proper asset allocation. Although asset allocation isn’t always simple, Kim explains there are four basic steps that should always be taken and which will make it easier.
JAN
10
2008
Don’t Limit Yourself to Mutual Funds
Some people make the mistake of limiting their investments to mutual funds. Kim explains that they not only miss excellent out on opportunities but they also expose their earnings to serious risk.
DEC
27
2007
Holding Companies’ Merits
There are many ways for the taxman to reach into your pocket – large portfolios, operating company shares, rental properties, etc. Tax reduction is just one benefit of establishing a holding company.
DEC
13
2007
Charitable Investing: Manage Your Giving
Kim explains how Charitable Giving funds allow you to manage your philanthropic endeavours actively while gaining a number of immediate benefits with cost-effectiveness and flexibility.
NOV
29
2007
Diversify by Investing Globally
Canada is a small player on the world equity stage and therefore portfolio diversification may mean looking abroad. However, our buying decisions must still be based on solid business principles.
OCT
18
2007
Exchange-traded Funds Provide Flexibility
Kim explains how ETFs allow you to add a specific asset class, sector, style, market cap or region to your portfolio with much more flexibility and less expense than buying mutual funds.
OCT
04
2007
Gold: A Safe Haven in Volatile Times
Gold is an excellent hedge against market volatility and a safe haven to protect capital. There are many ways to invest in it but one of the easiest and least expensive is through exchange-traded funds.
SEP
20
2007
Green Investing for Maximum Return
Some top enterprises are leaders in environmental stewardship and, as Kim points out, they demonstrate that environmentally friendly investing can improve your portfolio’s bottom line.
AUG
23
2007
A Clean Interface For Your Money
Kim believes that the shortest distance between two points of view is straight talk and, as she demonstrates with this column, her hallmark for both investment advice and writing is honest discourse.
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