Podcasts about canadian finance

Carlos Rodrigues spent 20 years in Canadian financial services. Mutual funds, life insurance both levels, and a full mortgage broker with five agents under him. He tried to start his own fund. Canadian compliance costs killed it. Now he drives 4.5 hours each way from Hamilton to Cleveland, Ohio to buy duplexes for $70,000 that appraise at $170,000 after renovation. In this episode, we get into: The $70,000 duplex near the Cleveland Clinic with a toilet falling through the floor How Section 8 rentals pay 20 to 30% above market, with one tenant paying $14 of her $1,400 rent Why 100% loan-to-cost financing is back, and why this isn't 2008 The joint venture partner who added $30,000 to $40,000 in renovation scope while Carlos was at Home Depot The contractor who ghosted him a week before closing How ICE enforcement is hitting the US construction labor pool Cleveland's side yard program: buy a vacant lot next to your house for $100 Why Carlos won't invest in Hamilton anymore, even though he lives there Plus my own update: my Hamilton duplex tenant has been non-paying for 7 months, $12,000 deep, and we're still waiting on the LTB. This is the world we're operating in. Want the investment loan strategy that produced a 40.6% return since September 2025? I'm hosting a free training on Saturday May 30 (Oakville hybrid) and Tuesday June 2 (Zoom only). Walking through the complete strategy, the math, every loss scenario, and how it fits alongside a real estate portfolio. Register at: ⁠https://wealthhacker.krtra.com/t/uqyHFbipnPrK⁠Connect with Carlos: Website: cashflowcarlos.com, Instagram & TikTok: @cashflowcarlos Connect with Erwin: Podcast: tafipod.ca Free Wealth Freedom Blueprint: infinitywealth.ca/freereport Book a Wealth Planning Call: linked at ⁠www.infinitywealth.ca⁠ 

In this episode of Investments Unplugged, host Kevin Headland is joined by Alex Richard, Senior Portfolio Manager, Multi-Asset Solutions, to discuss Manulife's newly launched “all-in-one” ETF strategies—against a backdrop where portfolio diversification has reclaimed attention, following a period in which many investors were tempted to chase equity returns. Kevin and Alex describe what makes these portfolios different from traditional “set-it-and-forget-it” asset-allocation ETFs, including: An active, flexible allocation process grounded in regularly updated capital market assumptions; Broader, deeper underlying portfolio diversification (including alternative investments) than many ETFs offer; A robust strategy implementation toolkit that can include select third-party ETFs and futures contracts.  They also share their views on portfolio positioning across equities and fixed income in today's market environment, as well as what role diversifying exposures (like global infrastructure and global credit) can play in a long-term investment strategy.     Key topics & insights 1. Why defense and diversification are back in focus After an extended run of strong equity performance, it's tempting for many investors to de-emphasize portfolio defense and to overemphasize return-chasing. The episode reinforces the notion of strategic diversification being essential to long-term portfolio outcomes, especially amid bouts of macro and market volatility. 2. What are Manulife's new “all-in-one” ETF portfolios? There are three different ETF strategies, each designed to fit a distinct investor risk profile—Manulife Conservative ETF Portfolio, Manulife Balanced ETF Portfolio, and Manulife Growth ETF Portfolio. The target equity/fixed-income portfolio allocations are roughly 60% bonds/40% stocks (conservative), 60% stocks/40% bonds (balanced), and 80% stocks/20% bonds (growth). However, these strategies are designed to go beyond simple equity/fixed-income splits by diversifying across global regions, market caps, investment styles, and degrees of active management. 3. Active at the core, built to adapt, TCR-ready Rather than managing the portfolios to static portfolio targets, the team can deviate from baseline equity/fixed-income allocations and adjust underlying exposures as market conditions warrant. Portfolio decisions are informed by a capital markets assumptions process, conducted quarterly, that covers expected levels of investment risk/return/correlation across 100+ asset classes. “Total-cost reporting (TCR) ready” is positioned as a relevant feature for Canadian advisors and investors focused on total-cost reporting. 4. Broader, deeper portfolio diversification Depending on the particular portfolio, the team can access close to (or upwards of) ~15 asset classes, including alternatives—for stepped-up portfolio diversification versus what many competing ETFs can offer. This broader mandate and flexibility allows for both “offensive” (return-seeking) and “defensive” (risk-managing) portfolio allocations, designed to pursue more consistent investor outcomes over time. 5. Implementation: Manulife ETFs + third-party ETFs + futures The portfolios are not limited to investing only in Manulife ETFs; third-party ETFs may also be used to gain portfolio exposures not available on Manulife's platform. Examples of such “off-platform” portfolio exposures include global listed infrastructure, dedicated high-yield bonds, and emerging-market debt. In addition, where appropriate, the strategies may leverage futures contracts as a means of efficiently adjusting portfolio exposures. 6. Market views and portfolio positioning themes Looking ahead, the discussion highlighted a potentially compressed range of expected market outcomes across core fixed-income and core equity portfolio buckets. In fixed income, investors might favor shorter-duration exposures (less interest-rate risk) and global bonds (outside North America) for potentially more attractive yield opportunities. Judiciously taking some credit risk may make sense in cases where investors are likely to be adequately compensated, such as select high-yield and emerging-market debt. ·   Actionable takeaways for Canadian investors Reassess how diversified your portfolio really is: A portfolio might appear to be more diversified than it really is (with a mix of stocks and bonds); consider additional layers of global and asset-class diversification. Don't assume “conservative” means all bonds: Understand the portfolio's actual target allocations and how much flexibility the manager may have to adjust or move around those allocations as needed when markets shift. In uncertain markets, prioritize portfolio resilience: Long-term investors may be well served by a resilient, diversified portfolio strategy focused on generating attractive risk-adjusted returns while managing volatility and downside risks. Consider the role of diversifiers beyond traditional stocks/bonds: If suitable for your risk profile, non-traditional asset exposures like global infrastructure and select credit sleeves may help provide enhanced portfolio diversification. Pay attention to duration risk in fixed income: If interest-rate volatility remains a concern, shorter-duration fixed-income positioning may better align with capital preservation goals than longer-duration bonds.   Links & Resources Listen to the episode:Investments Unplugged Podcast Learn more about Manulife Investments:Manulife IM Canada Share & Subscribe If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with your network and subscribe for future insights on markets, investing, and portfolio strategy.

Episode overview In this episode of Investments Unplugged, hosts Macan Nia and Kevin Headland discuss the investment implications of the Middle East conflict that began in the first quarter of 2026. Rather than forecasting geopolitical outcomes, Macan and Kevin focus on how shocks in energy-producing regions can transmit quickly into oil and natural gas prices, consumer costs, inflation expectations, and market volatility.  The discussion is framed around:  The context of today's macroeconomic and geopolitical backdrop Historical lessons from past geopolitical events (“disruptive” vs. “destructive”) Key factors to watch amid the current conflict , particularly the Strait of Hormuz  Practical portfolio considerations, including: Volatility management Deploying cash assets Fixed-income duration Emphasizing quality and diversification o   Key topics & insights 1. Why energy is the fast transmission mechanism Oil & gas move quickly into day-to-day costs: Higher energy prices pressure consumer budgets and can reduce spending elsewhere (they note consumption is ~two-thirds of the U.S. and Canadian economies). Real-time examples of price impacts: They cite U.S. average gasoline prices around $3.60/gal, up ~27% since early March (also noting seasonal “summer blend” effects). Europe's sensitivity to natural gas: They highlight that gas matters particularly for Europe and can drive equity volatility there. 2. The conflict's nuance: scale of regional supply + chokepoint risk Middle East production concentration: They estimate roughly ~20% of global oil production comes from the Middle East. Strait of Hormuz as a chokepoint: They emphasize the Strait's importance, noting ~20% of oil flows through it daily and also referencing natural gas flows. Operational disruption risk vs. outright closure: Even if ships have legal right of passage, they discuss how slower traffic, inspections, and higher insurance costs can still disrupt supply and risk sentiment. 3. Disruptive vs. destructive: what history suggests Most geopolitical shocks are “disruptive”: They describe internal research showing many events historically have short-lived market drawdowns, with returns often positive 3 months and 1 year later. When it can turn “destructive”: They reference the 1973–74 oil shock/Yom Kippur War framework—where sustained high oil contributed to recession—arguing the duration of elevated prices is key. Catalyst vs. cause: They note recessions typically aren't caused by one event alone; timing and existing fragilities matter. 4. Inflation, central banks, and why bonds may not hedge the usual way Energy can re-ignite inflation fears: If high energy is not transitory, they suggest inflation could remain sticky or reaccelerate. Policy uncertainty: They discuss the challenge for central banks balancing inflation control vs. growth risks, and note market expectations for 2026 rate cuts shifting (from multiple cuts expected to potentially far fewer). Fixed income positioning: They express preference for higher-quality credit and caution against taking too much duration risk in a volatile inflation backdrop; fixed income is framed as a patience game. 5) Portfolio discipline in fast-moving headline markets Don't invest emotionally: They stress not letting emotions drive decisions and reiterate diversification's role. Cash deployment needs a plan: Because markets can move sharply on ceasefire/headline risk, they advocate “staging in” with predefined triggers rather than trying to time a single entry point. Volatility as an opportunity indicator: They cite research that investing when the VIX is above 30 historically led to stronger forward returns (e.g., higher 6-month and 1-year returns vs. average conditions), while noting VIX was around the mid-20s at the time discussed. 6. Second-order impacts beyond oil and gas (food inputs) Fertilizer/food linkage: They highlight the Strait's relevance to seaborne sulfur trade (a fertilizer input), raising the possibility of food-price implications—especially relevant for emerging markets and policy paths. ·   Actionable takeaways for Canadian investors Separate geopolitics from portfolio process: Don't make large, reactive shifts based on fast-changing headlines; keep decisions anchored to your plan and time horizon. Watch energy as the key macro variable: Monitor whether oil and gas remain elevated for longer—that's the difference between a short shock and a broader inflation/growth problem. Be intentional with cash: If you have cash to deploy, use a staged plan with trigger points (rather than waiting for “all-clear” news that may already be priced in). Revisit fixed-income risk (duration and quality): In an energy-driven inflation-risk scenario, consider whether your bond exposure is taking more duration risk than you intended; emphasize quality and recognize bonds may not cushion equities as reliably if inflation expectations rise. Stay diversified and avoid concentration: Use this as a reminder that diversification across geographies and asset classes matters—especially when a single risk factor (energy) can dominate outcomes. Use volatility constructively: If volatility spikes to extreme levels, history (as discussed in the episode) suggests those periods can be better long-term entry points—provided you can stay disciplined.   Links & Resources Listen to the episode:Investments Unplugged Podcast Learn more about Manulife Investments:Manulife IM Canada   Share & Subscribe If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with your network and subscribe for future insights on markets, investing, and portfolio strategy.   For informational purposes only. This episode does not constitute investment advice. Please consult a qualified advisor before making investment decisions.  

Episode overview In this episode of Investments Unplugged, hosts Kevin Headland and Macan Nia mark International Women's Day by exploring longevity through the lens of women and financial preparedness. They're joined by Director, Multi-Asset Solutions Erica Camilleri, who shares thoughts and research on why longevity risk is higher for women, how today's macroeconomic backdrop (including higher cross-asset correlations and persistent inflation) can amplify retirement risks, and what investors can do—through better planning, appropriate risk-taking, and sound advice—to reduce the odds of outliving their savings.   Key topics & insights 1. Longevity risk and why it's higher for women Financial shortfall risk gap — Manulife research found that women in Canada face a higher risk of experiencing financial shortfalls in retirement than men do (34% vs. 29%). It's not just living longer — Longevity risk stems from a mix of longer (and rising) life expectancies, plus structural and social factors that can reduce lifetime savings and increase retirement vulnerability. 2. Health, wealth, and “longevity preparedness” Health and wealth are intertwined — The conversation emphasizes that longevity preparedness isn't only about financial issues; for example, poor health can worsen retirement outcomes and vice versa. New tools and frameworks — The “longevity preparedness index” is designed to measure readiness to thrive while aging in retirement and is expected to expand into Canada in coming years. 3. The role of incentives and behaviour change (and why it matters for outcomes) Incentives can drive better habits — The episode highlights research over decades indicating that specific goals outperform vague “do your best” goals and discusses how incentive-based programs can encourage healthier behaviour (and, by extension, better long-term outcomes). 4. Structural inflation is still a long-term retirement risk Inflation has moderated cyclically but remains structurally higher — Even if inflation trends toward central bank targets, the episode argues households are still living with a higher price level and that long-run inflation may settle in the mid-to-high 2% range rather than the pre-pandemic norm. Retirement math is sensitive to small inflation shifts — A modest upward shift in expected inflation (example discussed: +40 bps) can materially raise required savings/asset levels for retirement (example cited: a 30-year-old might need ~19% more assets). 5. Portfolio construction challenges: higher correlations and concentration risk Diversification is harder when correlations rise — The hosts discuss higher correlations within equities and between equities and fixed income, plus increased market concentration—factors that can make portfolios more vulnerable to shocks. Longevity risk is amplified by portfolio risk — In a “fluid” market backdrop, managing drawdowns and sequence-of-returns risk becomes more important for sustaining long retirements. 6. Mitigating longevity risk: saving earlier, compounding, and appropriate risk Start early; small changes matter — The conversation stresses the power of compounding and the outsized impact of starting earlier (even with small incremental improvements). Avoid being overly conservative — The episode argues many investors (especially in defined contribution plans) are too conservative, and that growth asset exposure is critical to reducing shortfall risk over multi-decade retirements. Rethinking retirement glidepaths — Erica explains their approach avoids a static asset allocation through retirement, allowing for more growth exposure early in retirement given retirements can last decades. 7. Advice, planning, and using the right tools (including RRSPs) Financial advice early helps — A repeated theme is that advice earlier in life helps investors understand opportunities, risks, and the need for money to last throughout retirement (and potentially leave a legacy). Tax-advantaged tools matter — The hosts reference prior discussions on RRSP benefits and how tax savings can compound and support retirement resilience. ·   Actionable takeaways for Canadian investors Plan for a longer retirement than you think: Build your plan around the possibility of a multi-decade retirement (the episode references retirements that could stretch to ~40 years). Don't ignore inflation in long-range assumptions: Stress-test your retirement plan for slightly higher long-term inflation; even small changes can require meaningfully higher savings. Prioritize time in the market (compounding): If you're early in your career, focus on starting now—small contribution increases made earlier can have an outsized impact later. Be deliberate about risk—not automatically conservative: Review whether your portfolio is too cautious for your horizon (including early retirement), since insufficient growth can increase shortfall risk. Diversify with today's correlation regime in mind: Recognize that diversification may be less reliable when equity/fixed income correlations rise; ensure your portfolio isn't overly concentrated in a few exposures. Use advice and tax tools to improve outcomes: Consider getting financial advice earlier and make full use of retirement vehicles (e.g., RRSPs) where appropriate to improve after-tax compounding.   Links & Resources Listen to the episode:Investments Unplugged Podcast Learn more about Manulife Investments:Manulife IM Canada Share & Subscribe If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with your network and subscribe for future insights on markets, investing, and portfolio strategy.   For informational purposes only. This episode does not constitute investment advice. Please consult a qualified advisor before making investment decisions.    

Hosts Kevin Headland and Macan Nia recently sat down with John Natale, Head of Tax, Retirement & Estate Planning Services at Manulife, to unpack: • The real world trade offs between registered retirement savings plans (RRSPs) and tax-free savings account (TFSAs); • Why successor holder designations can spare families tax and paperwork; • A time sensitive spousal RRSP contribution opportunity after a death; • Cross border (U.S.) TFSA considerations; • Using segregated funds as a liquidity “cash wedge” after death; and • Why the value of financial advice extends far beyond portfolio returns. Take a listen for practical, plain language insights you can bring to client conversations today.

Some industry predictions may seem outlandish—or even impossible. But does that mean they're not worth considering? Kick off 2026 with Kevin and Macan, as they explore consensus- defying predictions that may sound absurd, but warrant closer examination. Listen in as they examine the logic behind some of industry's boldest predictions, challenging listeners to rethink what's truly possible. From a potential 50% surge in gold prices to an S&P 500 Index that could endure a bear market and still finish the year up 20%, our hosts break down the rationale, data, and market dynamics behind each scenario—examining the roles of central bank rate cuts, liquidity, momentum and investor behavior, all while underscoring the importance of diversification in an unpredictable market environment. Tune in for a lively start to 2026—and decide for yourself: are these forecasts improbable, or impossible?

Episode 113: 2025 in the rearview—are markets in for another strong year?Hosts:Kevin Headland (Co-chief Investment Strategist)Macan Nia (Co-Chief Investment Strategist)Special guests:Emily Roland (Co-Chief Investment Strategist)Matt Miskin (Co-Chief Investment Strategist)Episode highlights• 2025 in review:• The team discusses the strong performance of markets in 2025, including theTSX's impressive 24% return despite a challenging economic backdrop in Canada.• Key market drivers:• The role of momentum trading, trend-following strategies, and AI exuberance.• The ongoing influence of the crypto trade.• Discrepancies between Canada's economic data and TSX performance.• Looking ahead to 2026:• Will the trends of 2025 continue, or is a shift on the horizon?• The importance of sentiment as we enter the new year—are markets priced forperfection?• Why investing in companies is not the same as investing in the broader economy.• Risks and opportunities:• Potential risks for the Canadian economy, especially regarding banks andfinancials.• The importance of being prudent and keeping an eye on domestic economicindicators.• The impact of investor confidence and employment on market flows.• Actionable insight:Information à usage interne - Internal• The team provides practical considerations for investors as they positionportfolios for 2026.• Encouragement to review the team's full 2026 outlook, available on the ManulifeInvestments website.Additional information• Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform to stay up to date.• Listeners are encouraged to rate, share, and reach out with questions or feedback. 

The debate over the UBC SkyTrain extension is heating up ahead of the federal budget. A new survey from Willful, the Canadian online estate planning platform, paints a sobering picture of how stretched Canadians' finances have become. A remarkable prehistoric discovery in northeastern British Columbia is giving scientists new insight into the province's ancient past. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereIs using the Smith Manoeuvre actually the smartest strategy for your family's financial future—or just a well-known tactic that needs deeper thought?If you're earning a strong income, filling up your RRSPs, and asking “now what?”, you're not alone. Many high earners in Canada hit a ceiling when it comes to traditional tax-advantaged accounts—and they're left wondering how to structure their wealth more efficiently. In this episode, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr walk through a real listener case study that exposes the blind spots, tax traps, and strategic decisions facing Canadian professionals trying to hit their retirement goals without losing half their income to taxes.You'll discover:Why simply maximizing your RRSP isn't enough—and how to think beyond the basicsThe real pros and cons of using the Smith Manoeuvre in your name vs. your spouse'sHow to balance today's tax savings with tomorrow's income-splitting strategy for retirementReady to move from tax confusion to tax confidence? Hit play and learn how to make smarter wealth-building moves with the income you've already got.Discover which phase of wealth creation you are in. Take our quick assessment and you'll receive a custom wealth-building pathway that matches your phase and learn our CRA compliant tax optimized strategies. Take that assessment here.Canadian Wealth Secrets Show Notes Page:Consider reaching out to Kyle…taking a salary with a goal of stuffing RRSPs;…investing inside your corporation without a passive income tax minimization strategy;…letting a large sum of liquid assets sit in low interest earning savings accounts;…investing corporate dollars into GICs, dividend stocks/funds, or other investments attracting corporate passive income taxes at greater than 50%; or,…wondering whether your current corporate wealth management strategy is optimal for your specific situation.Unlocking financial freedom in Canada starts with more than just saving—it demands a strategic blend of wealth optimization, tax-efficient investing, and a clear financial vision setting that aligns with your lifestyle and goals. Whether you're a high-income earner, entrepreneur, or family focused on building long-term wealth in Canada, understanding tools like the Smith Maneuver, RRSP optimization, and capital gains strategies is essential. This episode explores how smart investment structures, corporate wealth planning, and personal vs corporate tax planning cReady to connect? Text us your comment including your phone number for a response!Canadian Wealth Secrets is an informative podcast that digs into the intricacies of building a robust portfolio, maximizing dividend returns, the nuances of real estate investment, and the complexities of business finance, while offering expert advice on wealth management, navigating capital gains tax, and understanding the role of financial institutions in personal finance.

Canadian Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne discusses the impact of tariffs on global trade, and the possibility of a deal with the US. He speaks with Bloomberg's Oliver Crook as G20 finance ministers meet in South Africa.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Warmer days are on the horizon, and while many of us are planning our next vacation spots, others are looking back at the half year and recalibrating their portfolios for what lies ahead. What happened to markets in the first half of the year? What can we expect as we move into the year's final stretch? Tune in to our new podcast episode as our Co-Chief Investment Strategists Kevin Headland and Macan Nia discuss the opportunities and risks affecting the global economy, including U.S. tariff policy, decelerations in global manufacturing, and the role of corporate earnings as a potential driver of market performance. Will the chaos and unpredictability witnessed during the first six months of 2025 prevail in the months ahead? Listen in to our episode for all this and more. Intended for Investment Professionals, investors should connect with their financial advisor for more information

Lately, we're feeling nostalgic for the Y2K era. The glitter-slathered techno-optimism of the millennial moment continues to shape our darker present. Our guest, author Colette Shade, has written a 2000s nostalgia fest. Y2K: How the 2000's Became Everything (Essays on the Future That Never Was) is a memoir and a cultural critique of an optimistic era that ended with a financial crash. She joins the show to talk about the end of history, inflatable furniture and chatroom usernames.Also, Vass and Katrina wear butterfly clips and Ugg boots in the snow. Subscribe to the Lately newsletter, where the Globe's online culture reporter Samantha Edwards unpacks more of the latest in business and technology.Find the transcript of today's episode here.We'd love to hear from you. Send your comments, questions or ideas to lately@globeandmail.com.

The festive holiday season is upon us and what better time than now to reflect and prepare for the road ahead. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to hear from Kevin and Macan as they look to 2025 and share their thoughts on equity and fixed income developments. Will equity fundamentals continue to be a defining theme in the new year? What role will security selection and duration management play in the fixed income space? Tune in to the year's last episode of Investments Unplugged, as our experts delve into their base case, bull case and bear case scenarios for 2025. This is one episode you just can't miss. Be sure to tune in! Intended for Investment Professionals, investors should connect with their financial advisor for more information.

Thousands are feared dead after Cyclone Chido pounds Mayotte, Canada's finance minister resigns, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz loses a confidence vote, Israel says it will increase settlements in the Golan Heights, Serbian police are accused of spying on opponents and journalists, SoftBank pledges to invest $100B in US technology projects, A UK lawmaker warns that a Chinese spy who befriended Prince Andrew is just 'the tip of the iceberg,' New York confirms plans to deploy radar drone-detection systems, Trump wins $15M in an ABC News defamation case, Bitcoin surges to a new all-time high of over $106K, and Trump says he'll push to end daylight saving time. Sources: https://www.verity.news/

Here we are—100 episodes and 7 years later! This truly is a remarkable milestone for our Investments Unplugged podcast, which has seen roughly 86,000 downloads since the pilot episode aired all those years ago. In this month's celebratory episode, we get up close and personal with our dynamic hosts and Co-Chief Investment Strategists: Kevin Headland and Macan Nia. Take a trip down memory lane as they reflect on their careers and offer valuable insight to aspiring young investment professionals. Considering a career in markets or investing? Think you could benefit from the lessons they've learned over the years? Tune in as Kevin and Macan look through the rearview mirror and commemorate their 100th episode. This is one episode you just can't miss. Be sure to tune in!

Children are heading back to the classroom for yet another school year. What better time than now to reinforce our portfolios with lessons learned from our early childhood? This month, our Co-Chief Investment Strategists Kevin Headland and Macan Nia address economic concerns, equities and fixed income developments, and the art of managing volatility—all through the lens of some our favourite children's classics. Get ready to revisit some of your favourite childhood gems and gear up for the final stretch of 2024 with this truly unique perspective on markets. Don't miss out on this podcast episode.

The dog days of summer are over, and volatility is back with a vengeance. In just a short period of time, we've dealt with a messy unwinding of carry trades, shifts in Fed policy, and material developments on the U.S. presidential front. How has this clouded the bigger picture? Don't miss out on an opportunity to go behind-the-scenes with Sandy Sanders, our Senior Managing Director, and Portfolio Manager of the Manulife U.S. All Cap Equity Fund. In an interactive discussion moderated by our Co-Chief Investment Strategist Macan Nia, Sandy chimes in on everything from the U.S. economy to the ongoing A.I. frenzy, U.S. elections and rotations across market capitalizations. Tune in to our new episode to learn more.

Unruly markets, unpredictable interest rates and a possible resurgence in inflation—are all your income options on the table? In this podcast episode, we sit down with our newly appointed Head of Specialists and former Director of ETFs and Alternatives , Rob Wernic. In this interactive discussion, Rob underscores the need for alternative income investments, outlining the key differences between traditional income solutions and our new Manulife Smart Enhanced Yield ETFs. Tune in to our new episode to learn more.

Are you inundated with stories? One of the most important rules when making investment decisions is to avoid getting caught up in headlines. In this podcast episode, we chat with our very own Senior Portfolio Manager, Fundamental Equity Patrick Blais about the importance of blocking out the noise and making fact-based investment decisions. With an investment process that highlights cash flow as the real driver of economic value, Patrick and his team look to uncover the best ideas at attractive valuations. Tune into our new episode to learn more.

In part two of our happily, ever after series of Investments Unplugged, we continue to compare timeless tales to the current markets. In this conversation, we provide our updated outlook on bonds and discuss the outcome of global central banks starting their easing cycles. Tune into our new episode to learn more.

What comes to mind when we think of fairytales? Fairytales are a means to teach children about opportunities, risks, and how to navigate a complex world. While they usually end happily ever after, the path to get there is usually riddled with challenges. In part one of this two-part series of Investments Unplugged, we look at the economy and equity markets through a fairytale lens. We pay particular attention to how children's classics are relatable to managing risks and uncovering opportunities in the current investment landscape. Tune into our new episode to learn more.

Strengthen your defence and sharpen your offence with Manulife liquid alternatives. Join us as we unveil our two new alternative fixed-income solutions. Hear from the lead portfolio managers of these strategies Chris Chapman and Roshan Thiru as they outline their investment approaches and delve into the key differentiators that set their teams apart. Tune into our new episode to learn more.

Make no mistake about it, the economy is dealing with its fair share of challenges. But are there bright spots ahead? In this podcast episode, we sit down with our Global Chief Economist and Strategist Frances Donald, as she weighs in on the macro forces at play in 2024. Will global growth decline? Will central banks respond with rate cuts? For all this and more, tune in to Investments Unplugged.

Seg 1: What would happen if you travelled faster than the speed of light? As we know, objects with mass, like spaceships, cannot travel faster than the speed of light. But what if they could? Where could we go? What would we see? How would that even work? Guest: Dr. Ethan Siegl, Astrophysicist and Author of "Starts with a Bang!" Seg 2: The best and the worst of the Superbowl From the actual game, to the commercials and celebrity sightings, Scott and Simi break down their favourite parts of the Superbowl. Guest: Scott Shantz, CKNW Contributor Seg 3: View From Victoria:  It has been three weeks since Ottawa announced a 35% cut in international students. BC is still trying to work out what it means for the province. We get a local look at the top political stories with the help of Vancouver Sun columnist Vaughn Palmer. Seg 4: Is social media glamorizing organized crime? There is a trend on TikTok glorifying the idea of being a mob wife. These videos depict women as being incredibly fashionable and glamorous, but also as passive onlookers who are not affected by the serious issues of violence and illegal wealth associated with organized crime. Guest: Dr. Felia Allum, Professor of Comparative Organized Crime and Corruption at the University of Bath Seg 5: Technology is making it easy to be a thief When was the last time you were the victim of a crime? Thieves are using a device called a flipper zero which is like a hackers swiss army knife and costs under $200. Guest: Scott Shantz, CKNW Contributor Seg 6: How did car thefts become a Canadian crisis? According to ICBC, there were 6,156 catalytic converter thefts in British Columbia in 2022, with over 5,100 in the Lower Mainland area. Guest: Michael Rothe, President and CEO of the Canadian Finance and Leasing Association Seg 7: Should Richmond have a safe consumption site? Richmond City Council's recent decision to establish a supervised consumption site at Richmond Hospital has stirred strong reactions within the community. Guest: Kash Heed, Solicitor General of British Columbia and Richmond City Councillor Seg 8: What does it mean to be a Black-Canadian? In his memoir, Campbell refutes the notion of a singular Black experience in Canada. He stresses on the multiculturalism within the Black community and urges to recognize the various narratives and origins that together shape the wider concept of being Black in Canada. Guest: Morgan Campbell, Sports Broadcaster and Author of "My Fighting Family: Borders and Bloodlines and the Battles that Made Us” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

According to ICBC, there were 6,156 catalytic converter thefts in British Columbia in 2022, with over 5,100 in the Lower Mainland area. Guest: Michael Rothe, President and CEO of the Canadian Finance and Leasing Association Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Auto theft has grown exponentially across the country. So how can car owners protect themselves? President and CEO of the Canadian Finance and Leasing Association, Michael Rothe joins Ontario Today.

Episode 89: A look ahead to 2024—addressing your unanswered questions (part 2) After patiently waiting for many months, signs that our fixed income outlook may be coming to fruition emerged at the end of last year. But what can we expect in 2024? In part 2 of our podcast episode, we focus on answering your frequently asked questions on fixed income. Are inflation risks behind us? Where are yields going? Are central banks done with their rate hikes? For all this and more, tune in to our new podcast episode.

With 2024 in full swing, what's our take on equities and bonds? Rather than sharing our views in our usual way, we've adopted a Q&A format to respond to some of the more pressing questions we've been getting on the road. Where's the economy headed? What are some of the main challenges for markets in the new year? To get your questions answered, tune in to our new podcast episode.

Consumer exhaustion is kicking in, yields have come down, and the economy is beginning to show signs of slowing. Since outlining our three-themed bonds outlook, we're finally getting an indication that it's coming to fruition. As we get ready to transition to phase 2 (“duration is your friend”), investors could embrace longer duration on expectations that yields will fall further and the economy will continue slowing. Will the headwinds that impacted bonds as yields rose become tailwinds when yields fall? For all this and more, tune in to our new podcast episode.

In this episode, we delve into the exciting realm of real estate as we discuss the recently introduced First Home Saving Plan. Breaking down the key features and benefits of this innovative savings initiative, providing valuable insights for first-time homebuyers navigating the path to homeownership. Tune in!  

Episode 87: Under the microscope: looking closely at a potential recession Recession—it's a word that continues to dominate the minds of investors and economic scientists alike. We hear about it so often, it sometimes seems like our expectations and concerns magnify. Yet, there could be important information that some people don't see. Let's focus the lens a little and scrutinize some of the financial details. • What's a soft or hard landing, and can we expect one or the other? • Why has a potential recession been delayed? • Does the economic data tell us whether a recession is inevitable? • How will the anticipation of a potential recession continue to affect the markets? Zoom in for a better view.

Why are car thefts spiking in Canada? Guest: Michael Rothe, president and CEO of the Canadian Finance and Leasing Association Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Seg 1: SpaceBorn United, a Dutch company, is working on addressing the challenge of human reproduction in space as part of space exploration endeavors. Guest: Dr. Egbert Edelbroek, CEO of SpaceBorn United B.V. Seg 2: View From Victoria: The BC Greens have announced their deputy leader in retired heart surgeon Dr. Sanjiv Gandhi. We get a local look at the top political stories with the help of Rob Shaw, Political Correspondent for CHEK News.  Seg 3: Are employment opportunities becoming more accessible in BC? Guest: Jagrup Brar, BC's Minister of State for Trade Seg 4: Why are car thefts spiking in Canada? Guest: Michael Rothe, president and CEO of the Canadian Finance and Leasing Association Seg 5: The Traffic Injury Research Foundation has released a report on recreational cannabis consumption spaces in Canada, and the numbers are not great. Guest: Robyn Robertson, President and CEO of the Traffic Injury Research Foundation Seg 6: Kickin' it with The Caps: Guest: Vanni Sartini, Coach of the Vancouver Whitecaps Seg 7: Show contributor scott shantz has been looking into what life would be like without the internet, and recently spoke with professor and author Aron Rosenberg, who actually spent an entire year offline. Guest: Aron Rosenberg, Lecturer in the Department of Integrated Studies in Education at McGill University and Author of Jacking Out: A Journal of a Year Spent Offline Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

School has started once again. And while students return to their classrooms and books, investors' minds turn to their portfolios, the economy, and the markets. But there's so much to learn when it comes to managing your investments. So, what subjects have currently reached the forefront for the Capital Markets Strategy Team? Three key investment themes are at the top of the class right now: • Prepare for near-term equity volatility amidst uncertainty. • Buying bonds is one thing; buying the right bonds is another. • Position your portfolios for tomorrow, not just today. There's the bell! Let's listen in.

Many topics waltz across the minds of investors. They twirl through our thoughts and sometimes step on our toes. Two things have been leading us lately: the rise of artificial intelligence (A.I.) and its role in the markets, and the recent surprise Bank of Canada interest rate hike. We won't dance around the subjects—there are relevant inquiries that we need to address: • Has A.I. played a role in what the S&P 500 Index been experiencing this year? • Are we seeing a replay of the 1990s dot-com bubble? • Why did the recent interest rate increase happen, and will it happen again? • How much of the current economic situation can monetary policy control? • What are the investment implications? Let's glide gracefully over the investment floor to answer these questions.

Host Alex Pierson speaks with Michael Rothe, CEO and President of the Canadian Finance and Leasing Association. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every so often, we find ourselves swimming in a sea of similar-sounding questions about what's affecting or going to affect the markets. These inquiries come around on a regular basis, but do they hold any water when it comes to our investments? We brave the waves, look at some of these recurring questions, and ask, “As investors, do we care about this?” • U.S. debt ceiling discussions • Sell in May and go away investment strategy • periodic market rallies • seasonal market volumes Let's dive in and see what's beneath the surface.

Star Trek, 2001: A Space Odyssey, The Terminator, Blade Runner, The Matrix—artificial intelligence (A.I.) has been a recurring science fiction theme for decades. But in fact, A.I. has come to the forefront of many discussions around scientific advances. Robotics, deep-learning models, smart cars, ChatGPT, and so on—where is this technology headed? We look at some of the applications of A.I.: • caring for the elderly by using sympathetic robots • using facial recognition software as the main way to identify you • improving customer experience with personalized algorithms • benefitting from AI—areas that may be worth watching … and more. What we can do with A.I may be nearly unfathomable. Maybe we'll even create artificially intelligent chocolate chips someday—they'd make one smart cookie.

To bond or not to bond? That is the question. Whether ‘tis nobler in the mind to invest in bonds or guaranteed interest certificates (GICs) preoccupies many investors. Where would William Shakespeare put his money and why? Who knows? But we have reasons for believing bonds may be the better option for today's investors: • Looking back over past performance of Canadian bonds, they usually outperform GICs. • Historically, the outperformance of Canadian bonds is sizably higher than GICs per year. • Reinvestment risk could give lower returns from GICs. There are more things in bonds and GICs than are dreamt of in your philosophy—let's discuss them.

A new year has arrived. Many investors are breathing a collective sigh of relief that 2022 is done and are looking for indicators of better investment opportunities and returns in 2023. Financial needles point toward shifting economic conditions, but what types of changes will we see? • What are we looking at to help determine what the coming year may bring? • Will a recession happen? How bad could it be? • Where is inflation going? And what will central banks do in response? • Does it look like market volatility is settling down? • Are equities or fixed income looking more attractive? Gauging the markets isn't an exact science. But the more we learn, the more likely we'll recognize the signs.

Cold and flu season struck and early and hard in 2022. It has also been a somewhat sick time in the markets this past year. Could 2023 give investors a chance to start easing the sniffles, coughs, aches, and pains of the volatility we've experienced? Let's use our stethoscopes and thermometers to examine three phases of potential opportunity in bonds moving forward: • the sweet spot—bond yields • duration is your friend—longer-duration and higher-quality fixed-income instruments • take on risk—when markets have fully priced in a recession Hot tea with lemon, a warm blanket, and a good investment strategy—just a few things that can make you feel better about your road to recovery.

This special episode features a discussion with our soon-retiring colleague and friend, Dan Janis, Co-Head of Global Multi-Sector Fixed Income at Manulife Investment Management. We get insights into Danny's life, career, and team, and what he's discovered about being a good advisor and sound money manager. • What has Dan learned about managing investments during his professional career? • Is there something Dan wishes he could tell his 10-year-old self, given the opportunity? • Which key skills should an advisor develop? • What's the best thing advisors can do for their clients? Retirement isn't the end of the road, it's the beginning of the open highway.

Episode 77: Eyeing the bond markets Unusually painful performance in fixed-income investments this past year seems to be blurring investors' vision. We see potential opportunity in current and future economic conditions. Is fixed income worth a second look? Let's turn our sight to some financial factors related to bonds: • how a recession can affect the fixed-income market • where we are in the current bear market cycle • U.S. Federal Reserve's interest-rate cycle to combat inflation • historical relationship between bonds and equities • yields vs returns … and more. And why are some people eyeballing used cars lately?

For children, school has begun again. For investors, school is never really out. What subjects should you pay attention to? Will the bell ring to end to the unexpected market volatility of 2022? Our resident Capital Markets Strategy instructors have written some relevant topics on their chalkboard. They cover: • rising inflation and interest rates • economic slowdown • earnings being priced into the markets • possibility of a recession • investing over the coming months And in this episode, we introduce a new segment on what's making recent media headlines. Class is in session.

With in-person interactions once again becoming the norm, this summer, the Capital Markets Strategy team has been criss-crossing the country, meeting with advisors and clients, and speaking at events. We're truly enjoying the face-to-face interaction and responding to inquiries from people we meet. Wherever we go, some common questions are popping up—questions like: • Has weak market performance already been priced in? • How does the second half of 2022 look when compared to historical downturns? • Will we see a recession, and when? • How do bear markets play out over time? Let's delve into these and other questions we've been getting.

Bear markets aren't new—15 have happened since 1950—and some have been worse than others. What's happening with the current economy and market volatility, and when will it change? Previous selloffs and downturns may hold a clue to what we can expect for the rest of 2022. We take a look at: • what we can learn from past bear markets • the chance of a recession • effects of inflation and central bank actions • bond yields and opportunities • options investors may have to rebalance their portfolios. Bears of all sizes appear … but how long do they hang around?

Fixed-income markets have been going down a rocky road so far in 2022. Are we in for a continued rough ride? Or will the dirt path become a smoother highway for bonds in the near future? Roshan Thiru, Head of Canadian Fixed Income at Manulife Investment Management, joins the Capital Markets Strategy team to discuss: • bond activity and yields • what to look for with fixed-income investments • record-high inflation and its effects • maintaining a balanced portfolio … and more. Buckle up.

When camping in the woods, the last thing you want to run into is a bear—but if you do, there are things you can do that can help you live through such an encounter. Similarly, when investors face a bear market or the potential for one, there are ways to help protect yourself from being ravaged by a downturn: • Try to overcome your natural panic and fear; don't run. • Be familiar with the environment. • Take advantage of opportunities. • Don't be afraid of what goes bump in the night—if something is meant to harm you, it'll stalk you silently. We go through these rules in detail—and maybe we'll enjoy some s'mores back at the campsite later on.

Despite the lack of evidence, people tend to believe a middle child has certain personality traits and can be difficult to deal with. Investors may think of mid caps in similar ways. Jeff Mo, Portfolio Manager, U.S. Mid Cap Equity at Mawer Investment Management, joins the Capital Markets Strategy team to talk about the benefits that mid caps may provide for your investment portfolio. They cover topics like: • short-term vs long-term market trends • how market volatility can create opportunities • effect of inflation on companies' ability to generate returns • challenges of predicting the markets • importance of downside protection. Are you judging mid caps fairly?

Seven is often considered a lucky number. But luck doesn't usually factor into it when talking about recession indicators. The Capital Markets Strategy team discusses whether we're headed for a recession in the near future by looking closely at seven economic indicators they pay attention to: • 10-2 inverted yield curve • ISM Manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index • positive inflationary trends • tighter financial conditions. Wait, that's only four! … Not to worry, just listen in and you'll hear about the other three too.