Think Smart with TMFG

Episode 248: All-In on U.S. Stocks – Wise Move or Risky Strategy?

In the latest episode of "Think Smart with TMFG," Senior Financial Advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon from Assante Capital Management delve deep into a daring investment strategy: putting 100% of your assets into U.S. stocks. Highlighting an intriguing article by Nick Maguli, our hosts explore the dominance of U.S. corporate giants such as Amazon, Google, and Microsoft and weigh the pros and cons of dedicating your entire portfolio to the S&P 500 index.

Renowned investors like Jack Bogle, Warren Buffett, and JL Collins have recommended this strategy to younger investors– but do U.S. stocks carry the potential to continuously outperform the market? Based on an evidence-based approach, Rob and Mike scrutinize data from the past five decades to provide clear-cut insights. Focusing on U.S. stocks' performance against cash deposits, bonds, and international stocks, they spark a riveting conversation about the feasibility of this investment strategy.

Episode 247: 2023's Most Valuable Companies

In this episode of Think Smart with TMFG, host Rob McClelland and Mike Connon, Senior Financial Advisors of Assante Capital Management Ltd., delve into the world's most valuable companies in 2023. They offer insights into the various sectors these companies represent and the increasing prominence of American companies on this list.

In this episode, you will also understand the dynamics of the world's corporate movers and shakers, examining some renowned names like Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet, and Amazon alongside the relatively new yet powerful players such as Meta and Tesla. Discover the amazing influence of the technology sector, as 30% of the top 10 companies belong in this arena, as well as the astonishing rise of Nvidia in Information Technology. Also, learn why size does not always guarantee success and how these companies play a crucial role in diversifying an investment portfolio.

Finally, get a peek into the future of these companies, taking into account the most recent market conditions and changing consumer behaviour and offering fascinating financial insights. Tune in to learn how to invest smartly, diversify your portfolio, and make sense of the latest global business trends with Think Smart with TMFG.

Episode 246: Financial Planning Tightwads and Spendthrifts Which Way Works Better?

Today Financial Advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon discuss financial planning and spending in relationships. This insightful episode of Think Smart with TMFG, delves into the financial dynamics in relationships, pitting 'tightwads' against 'spendthrifts.' Guided by Scott Rick's book, "Tightwads and Spendthrifts," they dive into the financial habits of couples, exploring the balance between saving and spending, and how couples can manage their finances harmoniously.

From Rob's reluctance to drop a dime on razors to Mike's affinity for luxury vacations, the episode offers an honest discussion of personal financial habits. They tackle the nitty-gritty of thrifting, forced savings, and wise spending.

Moreover, they unravel the common financial setups in relationships and share expert advice from years of advising couples. They weigh the pros and cons of managing finances independently, somewhat jointly, or entirely together. Plus, learn which combination of financial practices usually works best for couples, from our host's hefty 25+ years of professional financial experience.

Financial responsibility isn't just for adults, and in this episode, we underline the importance of teaching this to children as well. Learn how to gradually introduce kids to the cycle of earning, saving, and spending, as shared through the anecdotes of our hosts.

They don't just stop at daily spends and savings - the episode also touches upon crucial subjects like estate planning and tax-free savings. We discuss when separate accounts could be useful, like in the case of receiving inheritances or navigating finances in second marriages.

Finally, they stress benefits of shared financial accountability and planning.

Understand the importance of financial literacy and realize your potential to live a successful life. Jump into this episode for insights that will enrich the financial health of your romantic relationship!

Episode 245: TFSA -Best Investment Vehicle For Canadian Retirement Planning

In this insightful episode of "Think Smart with TMFG", Rob McClelland and Mike Connon, veteran financial advisors, meticulously explore the benefits, functions, and strategies associated with the Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA). Initially introduced in 2009, TFSA is presented as an excellent investment tool especially beneficial for retirement savings for Canadians.

The seasoned hosts delve into core features of Tax-Free Savings Accounts — outlining their distinct aspects compared to conventional savings accounts, explaining the tax-free growth feature, and showing the multitude of investment opportunities it provides. They also shed light on its comprehensive advantages such as yearly fund additions based on new limits, option to replace withdrawn funds, and potential to amass substantial savings.

The discussion goes on to examine the key differences between TFSA and other savings accounts like RRSP and the newly introduced first home savings account. They caution listeners about excess contributions and highlight the convenience of having multiple TFSAs but with meticulous contribution tracking.

The topic of posthumous handling of a TFSA is also broached, stressing the benefits of nominating a spouse or child as a successor annuitant or beneficiary. Additionally, the episode delves into unique strategies to boost tax-free growth, making it an essential listen for anyone seeking to leverage a Tax-Free Savings Account in Canada fully.

Detailed case studies illustrate the use of TFSA for managing cash flows, avoiding OAS clawbacks, and facilitating non-taxable gifts. Unique advantages of TFSA are discussed, such as designating beneficiaries, including charities, without rewriting your will, functioning as an income source during high-tax years, and its usefulness in buying non-primary real estate property.

The hosts round off by touching upon other practical uses of TFSA like short-term goal planning, creating passive income, and saving for educational expenses. Gain an in-depth understanding of TFSAs and how to tailor it for your specific financial needs in this comprehensive episode.

Episode 244: Owning a Second Property in Retirement

In this enlightening episode of 'ThinkSmart with TMFG', hosts Rob McClelland and Mike Connon of Assante Capital Management lead an in-depth discussion about the financial implications of owning a second personal use property, particularly cottages. They share their personal experiences, benefits, challenges, financial obligations, and not-so-obvious realities connected with owning a vacation home during retirement.

Join in as Mike and Rob shed light on the changing dynamic of property usage as one's life stage evolves, the associated annual costs, the investment considerations and more. They address the illusion of 'ease' that can captivate potential owners, stressing on the financial commitments that are often underestimated.

Dive into detailed discussions about hidden expenses related to cottage ownership, from harsh weather maintenance to managing wildlife. The hosts also bring up vital topics like tax considerations, borrowing costs, and non-deductible expenses, underlining the importance of a balanced and informed decision.

Touching on added complexities of foreign property ownership, the conversation addresses 'toy' ownership costs, fluctuating maintenance costs, local tax laws, inheritance tax, and property transfer complexities. Despite potential pitfalls and challenges, for many the dream of owning a cottage remains unbeaten given the memories and precious family time it provides.

Concluding the episode, Mike and Rob underscore the importance of detailed planning and readiness for anyone considering owning a second property or cottage. This episode aims to provide a comprehensive and realistic picture of the financial landscape associated with owning a vacation property.

Episode 243: 6 Ways to Improve the Probability of a Successful Retirement

Saving 10% of your income is just not enough. Senior Financial Advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon discuss 6 foolproof ways to ensure a successful retirement.

Episode 242: 2023 Financial Year in Review: What Went Wrong?

Join Senior Financial Advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon for their critical in-depth look at what went wrong in 2023 and its impact on the global market.

Episode 241: Greatest Investment Quotes of All Time Part II

In this episode of Think Smart with TMFG, your hosts Senior Financial Advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon discuss some of the great investment quotes of all time. They share quotes from Isaac Newton, Nick Murray, Peter Lynch, and others, highlighting the importance of investor behavior, the dangers of complex investments, and the need for calculated risks.

Episode 240: Pet Peeves and Things That Keep Mike Up at Night

Do you sometimes feel like the constant onslaught of fees and charges is never-ending? It's like death by a thousand papercuts. Banking fees, credit card fees, bag fees, and disposal charges. Is there anything that doesn't have an extra cost these days?

Join your hosts, Senior Financial Advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon, as they shed some light on the darker corners of the world of overcharging.

Episode 239: 10 Things You Absolutely Must Stop Doing

In this episode of ThinkSmart with TMFG, your hosts, Senior Financial Advisors Rob McClelland and Mike Connon discuss 10 things that people need to stop doing in order to improve their financial situation. Listen today to find out more.