Think Smart with TMFG

Episode 279: The Magic Bullets of Smart Investing

In this episode of "Think Smart with TMFG," hosts Rob McClelland and Mike Connon delve into the elusive concept of the "magic bullet" in investing. While many seek quick solutions in areas like weight loss or finding a partner, investing requires a more nuanced approach. Rob and Mike explore the key principles that successful investors share, highlighting the importance of starting early, diversifying, and maintaining a long-term perspective.

They discuss the crucial role of understanding what you're invested in, managing emotions, and the significance of rebalancing your portfolio. The episode also emphasizes the value of focusing on asset allocation and the necessity of continuous learning to stay informed in the ever-evolving financial landscape.

Join Rob and Mike as they uncover the simple yet effective strategies that serve as the true "magic bullets" to a successful investment journey, ensuring financial stability and growth over time. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights to enhance your financial planning efforts.

Episode 278: The Retirement Checklist - 20 Questions to Consider

Welcome to another episode of Think Smart with TMFG, your go-to podcast for news and insights relevant to everyday Canadians. Join Senior Financial Advisor Rob McClelland and Mike Connon of Assante Capital Management as they delve into the 20 crucial questions you need to consider if you're thinking about retirement.

In this episode, Rob and Mike guide you through a self-assessment to determine your retirement readiness. You'll score yourself on topics ranging from updating financial goals and creating detailed financial plans to ensuring you have adequate savings, debt reduction strategies, and proper insurance coverage.

Additionally, they discuss the importance of having a globally diversified portfolio, understanding your risk profile, and keeping tabs on investment fees. Estate planning essentials, such as having an updated will and power of attorney, are also covered.

Finally, Rob and Mike emphasize the significance of involving both partners in financial decisions and taking advantage of all available tax breaks. By the end of this episode, you'll have a clear understanding of where you stand and what steps you need to take to secure a comfortable retirement.

Episode 277: The End of Finance's Four Pillars

Welcome to "Think Smart with TMFG," your go-to weekly podcast for what's newsworthy and relevant to everyday Canadians. Join Senior Financial Advisor Rob McClelland and Mike Connon of Assante Capital Management as they delve into the significant transformation in the world of finance.

In this episode, Rob and Mike discuss the collapse of the four traditional pillars of finance: banking, trust companies, investment companies, and insurance companies. They explore how these once-separate entities have merged, leading to potential conflicts of interest and impacting consumer protection.

Discover the implications of this convergence on corporate profits, client services, and the overall financial landscape in Canada. Rob and Mike share personal experiences and provide insights into navigating this new financial terrain, emphasizing the importance of independent financial advice.

Tune in to understand how these changes affect you and what steps you can take to ensure your financial well-being in a rapidly evolving industry.

Episode 276: Navigating Portfolio Adjustments and Market Expectations

Welcome to another insightful episode of "Think Smart with TMFG," hosted by Senior Financial Advisor Rob McClelland and Mike Connon of Assante Capital Management. This week, Rob and Mike dive into their new portfolio asset mixes and market expectations, debunking the myths around passive investment strategies.

Discover how they utilize a detailed risk questionnaire to tailor portfolios to individual clients, and explore the seven different asset mixes they offer. Learn about the role of technology and AI in portfolio management, the importance of considering tax consequences, and the benefits of global portfolios.

Rob and Mike also discuss the impact of equity percentages on returns, the importance of investment policy statements, and their meticulous rebalancing strategies. They provide valuable insights into financial planning, including the use of Monte Carlo analysis for retirement scenarios and the significance of portfolio x-rays.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how to optimize your investments and achieve the highest return for your risk profile. Don't miss this opportunity to think smart about your financial future!

Episode 275: The Essential Guide to Trip and Cancellation Insurance

Welcome to another episode of "Think Smart with TMFG," your go-to podcast for newsworthy and relevant topics for everyday Canadians. Hosted by Senior Financial Advisor Rob McClelland and Mike Connon of Assante Capital Management, this week's episode dives into the vital topic of trip and cancellation insurance.

As we enter the fall travel season, Rob and Mike discuss the importance of having the right insurance coverage before embarking on your journey. From unexpected medical emergencies to the financial pitfalls of travel mishaps, they share real-life experiences and expert advice to ensure you're fully prepared.

Discover the differences between trip cancellation and medical insurance, the limitations of credit card coverage, and the benefits of annual travel insurance plans. Whether you're planning a short getaway or an extended vacation, this episode provides invaluable insights to protect your travel investment and peace of mind.

Don't miss out on this essential guide to safeguarding your travels. Tune in and travel safe with Think Smart and TMFG.

Episode 274: Why People Avoid Financial Advisors

Welcome to Think Smart with TMFG, your go-to podcast for newsworthy and relevant insights for everyday Canadians. Hosted by Senior Financial Advisor Rob McClelland and Mike Connon of Assante Capital Management, this episode dives deep into a topic many avoid—visiting a financial advisor.

Rob and Mike draw parallels between avoiding the dentist and the hesitancy to seek financial advice. They explore common reasons people resist consulting financial advisors, including fear of judgment, lack of financial knowledge, perceived costs, and procrastination. Through engaging anecdotes and professional insights, they emphasize the importance of overcoming these barriers for better financial health.

Tune in to understand why many Canadians hesitate to seek financial guidance and discover how a financial advisor can offer peace of mind, save time, and help secure your financial future.

Episode 273: Does Value Still Matter in Investing?

Welcome to another episode of Think Smart with TMFG, your go-to podcast for newsworthy and relevant financial insights for Canadians. Join your hosts, Senior Financial Advisor Rob McClelland and Mike Connon from Assante Capital Management, as they delve into the pressing question: "Does Value Matter Anymore?"

This week, Rob and Mike explore an insightful article by Richard Bernstein discussing the current state of value investing in today's market. Despite value investing's underperformance compared to growth investing over the past 20 years, they emphasize its long-term benefits and why it remains a cornerstone of their investment strategy.

Using relatable analogies like grocery shopping at Walmart vs. Longo's, they break down the concept of value investing and its historical outperformance. They also touch on the human tendency to follow trends and how this impacts market behavior, particularly with high-flying tech stocks like Google, Apple, and Nvidia.

Join Rob and Mike as they share personal stories and practical examples, from buying groceries and houses to choosing the right car, all to illustrate the enduring principles of value investing. Learn why patience and a focus on value can lead to sustainable long-term gains, even in a market enamored with growth.

Tune in to understand why value investing is not just a strategy but a mindset that could be crucial for your financial future.

Episode 272: The Election's Impact on Your Investments

Welcome to another episode of "Think Smart with TMFG," your go-to podcast for newsworthy insights relevant to everyday Canadians. In this episode, Senior Financial Advisor Rob McClelland and Mike Connon of Assante Capital Management dive into a hot topic: Does the stock market really care about the upcoming election?

Rob and Mike address common concerns such as market volatility, inflation, and interest rates in the context of election results. They emphasize that while elections can cause short-term fluctuations, they do not necessitate drastic changes to your investment strategy. Drawing from historical evidence, they illustrate how markets have performed under various U.S. presidents, debunking the myth that a new administration will drastically alter your financial future.

They also highlight the limited power of the U.S. president compared to the Canadian prime minister and remind listeners that the fundamental need for goods and services remains constant, regardless of political changes. Rob and Mike conclude with practical advice.

Join Rob and Mike for a data-driven discussion that reassures you that staying the course is often the best strategy.

For more insights, visit tmfg.ca.

Episode 271: The Truth About Bear Markets and What To Do About It

Welcome to Think Smart with TMFG, your weekly podcast on what's newsworthy and relevant to everyday Canadians. Join Senior Financial Advisor Rob McClelland and Mike Connon of Assante Capital Management as they delve into the looming bear market.

In this episode, Rob and Mike draw intriguing parallels between real-life bear encounters and market downturns. Mike shares his experiences with black bears during canoe trips, highlighting the importance of preparation. This sets the stage for a deep dive into the recent market corrections and the factors triggering these changes, such as rising unemployment and Japan's interest rate adjustments.

The discussion explores historical bear markets, drawing lessons from past financial crises and speculating on potential future triggers. Rob and Mike also outline the strategies employed by the McClellan Financial Group to navigate and mitigate the impact of bear markets, ensuring clients' financial plans remain robust.

Tune in to learn how to stay prepared for market fluctuations and understand the broader economic forces at play.

Episode 270: The Rise of DIY Investing Among Young Canadians

Welcome to another episode of Think Smart with TMFG, hosted by Senior Financial Advisor Rob McClelland and Mike Connon of Assante Capital Management. In this episode, we delve into the growing trend of young Canadians choosing to manage their own investments, bypassing traditional financial advisors.

We explore the factors driving this shift, such as the increased reliance on social media for financial advice and the impact of recent market conditions. We'll also discuss the potential pitfalls of DIY investing, including the challenge of distinguishing good advice from bad on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.

Rob and Mike highlight the importance of professional financial advice and the value it adds, from behavioral coaching to tax-smart planning. They also examine how robo-advisors are performing and why not all of them are created equal.

Tune in to understand the nuances of this trend and how it could affect your financial future. Don't forget to subscribe for more insights on achieving your best retirement ever!