Think Smart with TMFG

Episode 255: Top 10 Mistakes in Retirement

On this episode of Think Smart with the McClelland Financial Group of Assante Capital Management, your hosts, Rob McClelland and Mike Connon, delve into the common pitfalls that might spoil a rewarding retirement experience. We discuss how focusing on physical, dental, and financial health forms the foundation for an enjoyable second innings.

Your hosts talk about financial anxiety, emphasizing the value of trusting in your financial planning and advice from trusted advisors. We also touch upon the risk of overcommitment - whether volunteering or playing nanny to grandkids - and advise a balanced approach to time management.

We don’t stop at just 10-pointers; we go the extra mile, sharing bonus advice on home maintenance, embracing technology, and fulfilling travel dreams. Offering insights into crucial issues such as estate planning and proactive measures for mental health, the episode acts as a comprehensive guide to retirement. 

Episode 254: Understanding Trip Medical and Cancellation Insurance - Conversations with Financial Experts Rob and Mike

In this important discussion, award-winning financial advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon from the McClelland Financial Group of Assante Capital Management discuss the importance of trip medical and cancellation insurance. Drawing from engaging personal experiences, they highlight why it is essential to understand the nuances of your coverage.

They recount real-life stories where insurance has proven invaluable. They highlight the benefits of having comprehensive coverage during unexpected medical emergencies abroad, emphasizing the potentially high cost of medical care, especially in unfamiliar territories. They also stress that life insurance is not a luxury but a necessity, ultimately impacting the financial health of your loved ones.

Episode 253: CPP - The Best Government Pension Plan?

In this episode, your hosts - Senior Financial Advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon from Assante Capital Management, provide an in-depth analysis of the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and why they believe it is an incredible benefit for Canadians.

They delve into the principal features of CPP – its contributory nature, inflation-proof returns, and professional management. Discussion surrounding these aspects sheds light on the plan’s goal of ensuring a financially secure retirement for Canadians.

The duo also discusses the CPP's global fame due to its low management fees, diverse investments, and long-term planning capabilities. They emphasize its portability and sustainability, providing examples to help listeners understand the CPP's robust structure. Lastly, Rob and Mike discuss the supplementary benefits offered by the CPP, such as survivor and death benefits. 

Episode 252: The Financial Implications of Divorce

In this episode of Think Smart with TMFG, Rob McClelland and Mike Connon unpack the unavoidable financial challenges of divorce. They paint a detailed picture of financial complexities that couples should be aware of at the onset and conclusion of a divorce.

The episode offers a comprehensive probe into how divorce can impact different facets of life, from careers to businesses, and how crucially they tie into the finances of the separating couple. With child support, alimony, and distribution of assets at play, the financial landscape can become intricate.

Rob and Mike also touch on the division and distribution of properties post-divorce and the financial difficulties that can arise, especially for the less-earning party. The final discourse shifts to the sometimes forgotten victims of divorce- the children. The hosts discuss the complex aspects of support arrangements, their longevity, and the pressing need for a fair and clear agreement in child support matters.

With insights into estate planning, insurance, changes in wills and beneficiaries, and the importance of tax implications, this episode dives deep into how divorce impacts finances. And most importantly, it underscores a reliable financial advisor's essential role in navigating the tricky waters of separation and divorce.

Episode 29: Becoming A Great A Client Takes A Little More You Might Expect

Becoming a good client requires a great advisor. The importance of having sound advice and taking it. Savers vs. spenders and what it can mean to the future of your plan. The importance of goal setting and finally muffins are they really where it's at?

Episode 33: Technology: Making Us Way Better At What We Do!

Technology has had a huge impact on financial services. Market efficiencies are translating to enormous benefits for clients. Listen here today for more insights in part 2 of our debrief of DFA's Charlotte, NC conference.

Episode 85: The Sexy Secrets of Private Equity

What is Private Equity Investing? How do you gain exposure to this type of investment? Is it a good idea?

Today on Think Smart we discuss some of the lesser-known details of venture capital and labour-sponsored funds. How volatility and illiquidity can be hidden aspects of these big risk investments.

This and more today on Think Smart!

Episode 251: Retirement is Shorter Than You Think

In this episode of Think Smart with TMFG, your hosts, Senior Financial Advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon from Assante Capital Management Ltd., dive into the issue of how long retirement could last depending on the age you retire, referencing a study by Visual Capitalist. They discuss the variances in life expectancy between men and women and how retirement age impacts these figures.

They emphasize that it's not enough to plan for retirement financially. Staying physically and mentally active, maintaining good health and diet, having a vibrant social life, and managing stress are all important factors in ensuring that retirement years are indeed golden.

Our hosts also discuss different activities that retirees could consider to make their retirement life fulfilled and enjoyable. Embracing hobbies and interests you didn't have time for while working, exploring new places, volunteering, and even planning the financial aspects of your life are a few of the things they suggest.

The uncertainty of retirement length requires proper planning and optimizing life in a way that ensures enjoyable, healthy, and longer retirement years. Listen to this episode of Think Smart with TMFG to get insights on how to live a fulfilling life post-retirement.

Episode 250: Essential Steps for Successful Retirement Planning

Welcome to 'Think Smart with TMFG,' your definitive guide to Canadian Retirement Planning. Senior Financial Advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon of Assante Capital Management Ltd. offer their expert perspective on constructing a calculated retirement strategy. The financial duo shed light on the elements of a solid retirement structure, focusing on crafting a financial plan for a future free of worries.

Our hosts share their extensive financial planning expertise, detailing a roadmap to retirement readiness. Covering everything from considering yearly expenses and budgeting for desires like travel to adjusting lifestyle according to retirement revenue, Rob and Mike offer comprehensive guidance for the listeners.

Rob and Mike explore a wide range of income sources - from RRSPs, Work Pensions, CPP, OAS and registered disability savings plans - to consider in your retirement plans. They underline the necessity of having realistic expectations regarding retirement and withdrawal rates to master financial maneuvers.

Episode 249: Expected Rate of Returns in Retirement

In this episode from "Think Smart with TMFG", Senior Financial Advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon with Assante Capital Management Ltd. provide an insightful discussion on the critical role of rate of return expectations in retirement planning. Backed by an intriguing study from Visual Capitalist, they highlight the gap between clients' expected returns and those projected by their advisors.

Their conversation takes a global sweep as they dissect rates of return in major markets like the S&P 500, illuminating the disparity in investor vs advisor expectations across different countries.

Rob and Mike shed light on factors such as risk tolerance, time horizons, market conditions, the role of advisors, investment knowledge, and emotional biases. 

Lastly, they share advice on bridging this gap, emphasizing the value of realistic expectations, proper data understanding, and the role of seasoned financial advisors. This episode upholds the importance of aligning investor and advisor expectations for a smoother and more successful path to retirement.