Think Smart with TMFG

Episode 104: ESG Investing: What is it and Should You Make it Part of Your Portfolio?

The world has changed significantly over the past year. We have begun to shine a light on those areas in the environment and society that had previously been ignored. Ethical Sustainability and (Corporate) Governance Investing or ESG investing has become a topic of interest for many investors. However, the path to these ethical decisions is not always at straight forward as we may think. It's not easy to decipher which companies to believe in, and many factors need to be taken into consideration. At the moment, there is no perfect system. So how do you begin to weigh the pros and cons of what companies should be in your portfolio?

Today on ThinkSmart, we discuss the exciting new world of ESG Investing.

 

Episode 103: Our 100th Podcast - It's Been A Heck of A Ride

It's hard to believe that we have hit the 100 podcast mark, but it's true. Our format has changed a lot over the years. We have tackled everything from macroeconomics to social issues and come all the way back to grassroots financial planning advice. What started as taking our daily in-person "Tim Horton's chats" public, has grown into a weekly podcast and a steady group of listeners. With the rollercoaster of a year we have had, we feel privileged to keep in touch with all our listeners and our loyal clients. In this episode, we take our cue from one of our most downloaded podcasts, "Lessons Learned from 2008 to Present" and discuss some of the important lessons we have learned over the year from market fluctuations to the benefits of rebalancing. Join us today on ThinkSmart!

Episode 102: The Coming Recovery

Could it be that we are approaching a recovery? If you have been in the fortunate position to have had extra capital over the past few months, your savings may actually have increased. The unemployment rate is predicted to lower in the future and, GDP is on the rise.  We are beginning to see many positive signs on the horizon. Most importantly, we are starting to see social change,  raising awareness of inequalities and a movement to a more open and positive future to come.
Join us today on ThinkSmart as we discuss the many directions the world is moving in and some of the things we have begun to noticed along the way. 

Episode 101: Volatility in the Market

What does volatility in the market actually mean, and how can you make it work to your advantage? The downside of volatility often gets negative press, but risk and return are often very closely related. Let's explore how this all works today on Think Smart.

 

Episode 100: The Death of a Client

The death of a client can be one of the hardest parts of an advisor's job. In many cases, this may be a relationship that has been forged over 20-30 years. It is a difficult time for everyone involved, and a financial advisor needs to be the voice of reason for the surviving family members. There is a lot riding on the next steps, and everything needs to be done correctly. Listen today to hear some of the elements that come into play when this part of a client’s financial journey comes into play.

 

Episode 99: Forecasting? Isn't it Obvious?

Trying to predict the outcome of most things, if not based in science, is very nearly impossible, and even then, it can be impractical. Isn't it always way too apparent after the fact what we should have expected or, better, known? But seriously, do you think it's possible to predict some aspects of the market? Find out what we believe today on ThinkSmart.

Episode 98: Strategies to Employ in the Last 5 Years Before Retirement

What steps should you consider taking to ensure a smooth transition into retirement? How should you handle your accounts over the next few years? What are the tax benefits of changing tax brackets? How to cope with your debt. Consider how your future health might be affected. When should CPP be taken? Do both you and your partner have the same ideal retirement in mind?
We answer these and many more questions today on Think Smart. 

Episode 97: Bitcoin - What's All The Hype?

The first Bitcoin ETF was recently launched, and it's certainly become very hard to ignore it in the marketplace. However, there are two sides of this figurative coin; the financial perspective and the technological perspective. There is a severe lack of information and mystery around how it actually works.  While it may, in fact, really help in third-world commerce,  there is still a ton of volatility and uncertainty surrounding it.

Join us as we discuss the ins and outs of Bitcoin!

Episode 96: What's the Difference Between ETFs and Mutual Funds Anyway?

Does anyone know off the top of their head the difference between mutual funds and ETFs? For all intents and purposes, they are pretty similar. However, you may be surprised to know that there are a number of subtle distinctions that can make a difference to your pocketbook.
Listen today to find out more!

Episode 95: How I Made My First Million

Have you made your first million yet? It's not as hard as you might think. Believe it or not, there are some pretty straightforward steps you can take to get there. Listen today as Rob and Mike give you their personal accounts of how their very practical financial decisions worked out and how you might be in a position to do the same.