Have you ever wondered if investing in emerging trends, like AI or green energy, could give you an edge? Are thematic investments a smart choice for long-term success? What are the potential pitfalls, and how can investors avoid them? In this episode, we explore these questions and more.

Keith Matthews and Marcelo Taboada examine the appeal of thematic investing, looking at why it draws investors in and why it may often fall short. They discuss findings from a recent Morningstar report that highlights the returns—and missed returns—associated with thematic strategies, shedding light on how timing and trends impact investors' outcomes.

Tune in to learn the do’s and don’ts of thematic investing and how a balanced approach can help you achieve your financial goals without chasing the latest investment craze.

Thank you for tuning in!

Key Topics:

• Introduction to thematic investing (0:57)
• Defining thematic investing and its focus on macro trends (2:05)
• Why fund companies promote thematic investments and the impact of fees (3:12)
• Key challenges in thematic investing: the allure of trends and timing (3:47)
• Discussion on the "buy-low, sell-high" difficulty in thematic strategies (4:28)
• The Morningstar report on thematic fund returns and investor outcomes (5:20)
• Differences between time-weighted and dollar-weighted returns explained (6:12)
• Significant return gap in thematic investing (6:52)
• "Mind the Gap": Morningstar’s analysis on investor returns vs. fund returns (7:25)
• Historical themes and their outcomes, from the Nifty Fifty to BRIC (10:05)
• Importance of fees in thematic investing and their effect on returns (11:45)
• ARK Innovation Fund example: performance gaps and timing issues (15:13)
• Dangers of chasing manager performance and its parallels with thematic investing (17:52)
• Strategies to avoid thematic investing pitfalls (20:12)
• Discussion on "Core and Explore" strategy and why it often fails (21:30)
• Final takeaways on resisting the urge to chase trends (22:45)

And so much more!

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Morningstar: Navigating the Global Thematic Fund Landscape
• Mind the Gap 2024: A Report on Investor Returns in the US
• Tulett, Matthews & Associates

Thanks for Listening!

Be sure to subscribe on Apple, Google, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. And feel free to drop us a line at lawrence@tma-invest.com or 514-695-0096 ext.112.

Follow Tulett, Matthews & Associates on social media on LinkedIn, Facebook, and more!

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Do presidential elections determine the stock market's performance? Is there a difference in returns between Republican and Democrat administrations? In today’s episode, Marcelo Taboada and Jackson Matthews break down the data from past elections and examine the long-term impact—or lack thereof—of political events on the stock market. How does human ingenuity shape market outcomes, and what lessons can investors learn from history?

Join Marcelo and Jackson as they dive into key historical periods, such as the Great Depression, World War II, and the COVID-19 pandemic, to explore how markets react in times of crisis and growth. They also address common misconceptions about the stock market and offer a fresh perspective on investment strategies in the face of political change.

Thank you for tuning in!

Key Topics:

• Introduction to election and stock market discussions (0:00)
• Common misconceptions about U.S. elections and market volatility (1:12)
• Understanding market resilience despite political changes (2:07)
• Long-term market trends through various U.S. elections (3:01)
• The effects of social media and news on investor sentiment (3:50)
• Discussion on Federal Reserve's role vs. presidential impact on the market (5:00)
• Case study: The 2016 election and market predictions (7:15)
• Historical examples of market reactions during past elections (8:45)
• Insights from major historical events (Great Depression, WWII, etc.) (9:23)
• The stock market during FDR's presidency (9:57)
• Economic resilience during Truman and Kennedy administrations (10:45)
• The Bush era and market behavior during 9/11 and the 2008 financial crisis (11:56)
• The importance of staying invested despite political events (12:45)
• Trends during Trump's presidency and the COVID pandemic (13:46)
• Impact of macroeconomic events and technological advancements (14:32)
• Discussion on human innovation and economic recovery (15:05)
• Summary of key takeaways on long-term investing (17:02)
• Closing remarks and advice for investors during election years (17:50)
• Personal updates: Marcelo on fatherhood and Jackson's engagement (18:02)

And so much more!

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Tulett, Matthews & Associates

Thanks for Listening!

Be sure to subscribe on Apple, Google, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. And feel free to drop us a line at lawrence@tma-invest.com or 514-695-0096 ext.112.

Follow Tulett, Matthews & Associates on social media on LinkedIn, Facebook, and more!

Follow The Empowered Investor on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Are you or a loved one facing the challenges of long-term financial planning with a disability? Wondering how to secure a stable future while navigating government benefits? The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) could be the answer you’re looking for.

Hosts Lawrence Greenberg and Jackson Matthews break down the complexities of the RDSP, explaining how it offers significant government support through income-based grants and bonds, making it a powerful savings tool to help Canadians with disabilities secure their financial future.

With tax-deferred growth, matching grants, the ability for multiple family members to contribute and bonds for low-income families, the RDSP allows for faster savings growth.

Lawrence and Jackson discuss the RDSP’s complexity and the need for expert guidance to fully leverage its potential. Whether you’re planning for yourself or helping a family member, the RDSP can be a game-changer for securing a better financial future.

Thank you for tuning in!

• Overview of the RDSP and its importance (1:03)
• Eligibility requirements for the RDSP (2:02)
• How the RDSP functions as a hybrid account (2:57)
• Who can be a beneficiary of the RDSP? (3:27)
• Contribution limits and rules for the RDSP (4:01)
• Details of the Canada Disability Savings Grant (4:59)
• Income thresholds and grant matching (6:02)
• Canada Disability Savings Bond explained (7:06)
• Catch-up provisions for missed contributions (9:01)
• Withdrawal rules and tax implications (10:01)
• Benefits of the RDSP compared to other accounts (12:00)
• Takeaways and final thoughts on the RDSP (13:10)
• Closing remarks and call to action (14:00)

And much more!

• Tulett, Matthews & Associates

Thanks for Listening!

Be sure to subscribe on Apple, Google, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Feel free to drop us a line at lawrence@tma-invest.com or 514-695-0096 ext.112.

Follow Tulett, Matthews & Associates on social media: LinkedIn, Facebook, and more!

Follow The Empowered Investor on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Have you ever wondered how the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) can assist Canadians with disabilities and their families? What are the challenges involved in applying for this underutilized credit? How can one effectively navigate the application process to maximize benefits? These and more questions will be explored in today’s episode.

Host Lawrence Greenberg sits down with Christine Brunsden, CEO of Benefits2, to discuss the Disability Tax Credit—a powerful yet often overlooked resource for Canadians. Christine delves into the intricacies of the DTC, clarifying eligibility requirements, debunking common misconceptions, and revealing the broader benefits it can unlock.

The conversation also sheds light on how aspects of aging, such as mobility issues, cognitive decline, and incontinence, as well as chronic illnesses like diabetes, can qualify as disabilities under the DTC. Christine offers practical advice on navigating the application process and underscores the importance of educating both professionals and the public about this valuable financial tool.

Whether you’re exploring the DTC for yourself or a loved one, this episode provides essential insights into obtaining financial support for those with disabilities.

Thank you for tuning in!

Key Topics:

• Introduction to the Disability Tax Credit (0:39)
• Misconceptions about the Disability Tax Credit (1:21)
• The role of physicians in the application process (3:16)
• Eligibility criteria for the Disability Tax Credit (6:02)
• The importance of understanding 'severe and prolonged impairment' (6:29)
• Retroactive application of the Disability Tax Credit (9:57)
• The complexities of the T2201 application form (10:54)
• How Benefits2 assists with the application process (13:38)
• Common challenges faced by applicants (14:29)
• Importance of education and awareness about the credit (19:17)
• Dementia and other cognitive impairments on Disability Tax Credit eligibility (22:16)​
• Services offered by Benefits2 (26:42)
• The impact of cognitive decline and aging on eligibility (26:56)
• Overlooked disabilities and the importance of seeking help (29:03)
• Final thoughts on overcoming stigma and pursuing the Disability Tax Credit (35:12)

And so much more!

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Tulett, Matthews & Associates
• Benefits2

Thanks for Listening!

Be sure to subscribe on Apple, Google, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. And feel free to drop us a line at lawrence@tma-invest.com or 514-695-0096 ext.112.

Follow Tulett, Matthews & Associates on social media on LinkedIn, Facebook, and more!

Follow The Empowered Investor on Facebook, LinkedIn, and

How should investors react to recent market volatility? What are the lessons from Intel's rise and fall that modern investors can learn from? Is diversification really the key to long-term success?

In this episode, Keith and Lawrence dive into the recent bouts of market volatility and share their thoughts on how you can maintain your composure during these turbulent times. They also delve into the cautionary tale of Intel, once a stock market darling of the late 90's, to emphasize the risks of over-concentrated investments in seemingly "can't miss" stocks.

Whether you're concerned about recent market trends or curious about the fate of once-dominant companies, this episode provides a clearer understanding of why it's essential to stay the course, ignore the noise, and maintain a diversified portfolio that aligns with your long-term financial goals.

Thank you for tuning in!

• Introduction to recent market volatility (0:45)
• Impact of U.S. unemployment figures on global markets (1:18)
• Contradictory economic data and its effect on the market (2:22)
• Importance of staying the course and avoiding short-term panic (2:55)
• Analysis of the VIX (volatility index) and its implications (3:46)
• Long-term investing mindset in volatile markets (5:05)
• Introduction to Intel's fall from grace (5:43)
• Intel's peak and subsequent decline (6:49)
• Comparisons between Intel and NVIDIA—cautionary tales (7:43)
• The dangers of concentrated investment in "superstar" stocks (8:45)
• Takeaways from Intel's story: Avoiding the allure of high valuations (9:26)
• Concluding thoughts on market volatility and Intel's lessons (10:07)
• Final message: Stay diversified and focus on long-term goals (10:21)

And much more!

• Tulett, Matthews & Associates

Thanks for Listening!

Be sure to subscribe on Apple, Google, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Feel free to drop us a line at lawrence@tma-invest.com or 514-695-0096 ext.112.

Follow Tulett, Matthews & Associates on social media: LinkedIn, Facebook, and more!

Follow The Empowered Investor on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Mid-year review - inflation down, stocks and bonds up: In this episode Keith and Lawrence delve into the 2024 mid-year review, providing a comprehensive overview of year-to-date asset class returns.

They elaborate on the strong performance of various asset classes, particularly emphasizing how technology stocks like NVIDIA have propelled the S&P 500's gains. But they remind us of the importance of not chasing returns, and of the importance of maintaining a globally diversified portfolio for long-term performance and for risk management.

As they look ahead to the upcoming fall US elections, they advise us that sticking to a consistent, diversified investment strategy is far more effective than trying to predict investment outcomes based on election results.

Key Topics:

• Mid-year review of portfolios and investments (3:01)
• Evolving trends shaping investment strategies. (3:20)
• Star performers driving the market through June 30th, 2024 (3:48)
• Tech titans, especially NVIDIA, fueling market gains (4:44)
• Why spreading your investments globally is crucial. (5:31)
• How today’s valuations set the stage for tomorrow’s returns. (7:52)
• Insights into the styles of stocks and market trends (10:04)
• The significance of AI across industries (11:26)
• Inflation and its impact on your household debt and spending power. (12:29)
• Historical context of Bank of Canada's interest rate policies (13:40)
• Implications of higher interest rates on Canadian debt levels (15:15)
• Advice on balancing investments and debt (17:26)
• Upcoming U.S. elections and their impact on markets (17:41)

And so much more!

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Tulett, Matthews & Associates
• BDO Canada

Thanks for Listening!

Be sure to subscribe on Apple, Google, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. And feel free to drop us a line at lawrence@tma-invest.com or 514-695-0096 ext.112.

Follow Tulett, Matthews & Associates on social media on LinkedIn, Facebook, and more!

Follow The Empowered Investor on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram

Are you thinking about selling your business but unsure where to start? Wondering how to maximize its value and attract the right buyers? How can you structure your finances to maximize the value of your business?

Tune in as host Keith Matthews and guest Uros Milekic, partner at BDO Canada, explore the critical strategies for enhancing business operations, ensuring accurate financial reporting, and structuring for optimal tax efficiency. Uros also explains the key factors that potential buyers look for and how to position your business to meet those criteria.

Whether you're looking to sell in the near future or planning long-term, this episode offers invaluable insights to help you navigate the complex selling process and secure your financial future.

Thank you for tuning in!

Key Topics:

• Why business owners need to prepare their businesses for eventual sale. [00:01:00]
• 5 Key Components: business processes, management structures, people, data and financials, and vision for future growth. [00:02:29]
• How business owners often get lost in daily operations and fail to plan for long-term goals. [00:03:28]
• The importance of accurate financial reporting, monthly reporting, and external audits. [00:12:26]
• The benefits of holding companies and family trusts for tax efficiency and planning. [00:14:11]
• Explanation of the lifetime capital gains exemption and its criteria [00:15:10]
• The timing and benefits of setting up holding companies and family trusts. [00:18:32]
• Understanding business valuation process, who uses it, and its importance in business sales. [00:23:13]
• Breakdown of different types of buyers (internal, strategic, non-related, and private equity) and how they value businesses. [00:26:03]
• The growing influence of private equity in the market and their criteria for purchasing businesses. [00:28:25]
• The differences between selling shares and assets, including tax implications and strategies. [00:31:36]

And so much more!

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Tulett, Matthews & Associates
• BDO Canada

Thanks for Listening!

Be sure to subscribe on Apple, Google, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. And feel free to drop us a line at lawrence@tma-invest.com or 514-695-0096 ext.112.

Follow Tulett, Matthews & Associates on social media on LinkedIn, Facebook, and...

How can entrepreneurs effectively plan and accumulate wealth? What role do holding companies and the capital dividend account play?

Join host Marcelo Taboada and Uros Milekic from BDO Canada as they dive into key financial strategies for entrepreneurs. Learn how to optimize tax savings, protect assets, and set up holding companies for legal and tax benefits.

Discover the pros and cons of taking a salary versus dividends, managing cash flow, and planning for retirement. Uros explains the Capital Dividend Account (CDA) and Refundable Dividend Tax on Hand (RDTOH) for tax-efficient fund distribution, and highlights Individual Pension Plans (IPPs) as a powerful wealth accumulation tool.

Tune in to navigate financial planning complexities and make informed decisions for your business!

Key Points:

• Advisory Team: Importance of a team of accountants, tax advisors, and lawyers. (9:50)
• Setting Up Holding Companies: Advantages for legal protection and tax efficiency. (16:00)
• Salary vs. Dividends: Pros and cons, and tax Implications of taking a salary versus dividends. (25:32)
• Accumulating Wealth: Wealth strategies within a corporation, using RRSPs, TFSAs, and investments. (26:45)
• Capital Dividend Account (CDA): Using the CDA to distribute funds tax-free. (35:12)
• Refundable Dividend Tax on Hand (RDTOH): Understanding RDTOH for managing investment income. (40:12)
• Optimizing Financial Strategies: Techniques for managing cash flow, working capital, and retirement planning. (42:39)
• Incorporating a Business: Why and when to incorporate for tax benefits and asset protection. (51:37)
• Insurance Considerations: Types of insurance policies and their implications when held personally or within a corporation. (1:01:52)
• Individual Pension Plans (IPPs): IPPs as a wealth accumulation strategy for high-income business owners, benefits over traditional RRSPs. ​(1:05:00)

And so much more!

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Tulett, Matthews & Associates
• BDO Canada

Thanks for Listening!

Be sure to subscribe on Apple, Google, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. And feel free to drop us a line at lawrence@tma-invest.com or 514-695-0096 ext.112.

Follow Tulett, Matthews & Associates on social media on LinkedIn,