Mark was interviewed today by Jeff McArthur on Global News Radio AM640 Toronto.
We discussed the findings of a just-released RBC survey that indicates retirement levels are expected to surge after the pandemic.
(By the way….when does ‘after the pandemic’ happen?)
A recent FP Canada survey says 40% of Canadians aged 55+ cite saving for retirement as their top source of financial stress.
Jeff sought my suggestions on how ‘about-to-retire’ people should be preparing now.
I explained the importance of a changing mindset from investing to planning and shared my 3 top recommendations: preserve what you have, maximize income and optimize tax efficiency.
If you speak to a professional planner to help navigate, you will likely find out you actually CAN retire and not run out of money.
Free Money
CBC Marketplace strikes again
Estimated reading time: 45 seconds
CBC Marketplace has warned consumers again about Canadian banks offering imperfect advice and unfriendly insurance products.
They went undercover seeking financial advice from the country's top 5 banks and financial institutions….and….spoiler alert….the results are scary.
5 Reasons why insurance companies don’t want you to review your policies
Estimated reading time: 30 seconds
Everyone knows that insurance companies pay attention to details.
The degree of due diligence they exercise before issuing a life insurance policy often includes a careful review of your driving record, financial profile and family health history.
A big-hearted cardiologist
Estimated reading time: 25 seconds
Charitable planned giving is my favorite professional pastime.
Given the choice, most people would prefer to pay less income tax and leave more to their favourite charities.
Never Assume Anything (including emails delivered)
Estimated reading time: 45 seconds
“Never assume anything” Heard that before? Me too…at least a million times.
Yes, it’s a cliché, but it always ring true!
Happy Father's Day - gift included
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Happy Father’s Day!
This post is dedicated to my late father, of blessed memory, who died of a sudden heart attack in 1974 at the age of 50.
Truth or Consequences
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Telling the truth is an essential virtue, especially when it comes to dealing with insurance companies.
A schoolyard fib gets denounced with 'liar, liar pants on fire', but an insurance fib can carry disastrous consequences.
I was planning to procrastinate …
Estimated reading time: 45 seconds
I was planning to procrastinate, but never got around to it.
How many of us don’t put off important things we know we should have done yesterday? Do you envy those super-efficient types who are so punctual, organized and always put together? Don’t they sometimes infuriate you.... with yourself?
Offense or Defense…where to start?
Estimated Reading Time: 40 seconds
The NHL hockey playoffs are now underway and eternally optimistic Toronto Maple Leaf fans (1967 was our last Stanley Cup) witnessed a heartbreaking collapse last night when our beloved team blew a 4-1 lead in Game 7. That was painful.
Today the “mourners” are at the water cooler and all over the media discussing the relative importance of Defense and Offense.
Beware of Doing it Yourself
Estimated reading time: 30 seconds
I've always admired the talents of people on cooking and renovation shows. Project oriented magazines like Popular Mechanics have fascinated me since I was a kid.
But the very thought of dealing with a project of any size causes nervous palpitations before pulling out my dusty toolbox. My affliction of two left hands breeds unvarnished respect for talented do it yourselfers - they truly deserve it.
Trading on Inside Information?
Estimated Reading time: 35 seconds
We started telling people about Critical Illness Insurance in a big way with a radio campaign launched in March 2005. You can listen to some of our ads here.
The subsequent milestones make us feel very proud, and I won’t bore you with them now. They are all here if you care to read them.
Insurance Medicals
Estimated reading time: 55 seconds
Most people don’t like taking tests.
The risk of failure and embarrassment is reason enough to avoid tests, even when fully prepared.
Cancel What?
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If you call your cable or wireless provider to cancel your service or switch to another company you will automatically be transferred to a member of the customer retention department. Their job is changing your mind.
If you call me to cancel an insurance policy you will automatically be told to get a complete medical first.
Guaranteed Issue CI is now available 24/7
Estimated reading time: 45 seconds
I am delighted to announce a new online program we just launched with Manulife Financial to help every Canadian get affordable Critical Illness Insurance protection on a guaranteed basis without a medical.
Most people buy life insurance to protect their family but never consider the possibility of what happens if they get sick.