The technology that grows money while you sleep
Huge advances are being made in technology every year, and I can't get enough. For example, I love when I'm having a conversation and can say that, at that very moment, my Roomba is vacuuming for me. It just sounds so — futuristic. Financial technology can be just as exciting and futuristic --- and might even help you clean up in a different way.
Huge advances are being made in technology every year, and I can't get enough. For example, I love when I'm having a conversation and can say that, at that very moment, my Roomba is vacuuming for me. It just sounds so — futuristic. Financial technology can be just as exciting and futuristic --- and might even help you clean up in a different way.
How a man travelled the world in 24-hour trips
Kevin Droniak, a 27-year-old content creator, has captivated audiences with his innovative approach to travel, undertaking 24-hour trips to destinations such as Paris, Egypt and Puerto Rico. His philosophy centres on maximizing experiences without the need for extended vacations or hefty budgets. Droniak's method involves skipping hotel accommodations and focusing on one main activity per trip, such as visiting a beach or a landmark, allowing him to make the most of short stays. One of his most notable journeys was a $650 excursion to see the pyramids in Egypt. He described it to People Magazine as a dream fulfilled rather than a splurge, highlighting that fulfilling adventures don't require extended vacations or large budgets. Despite extensive flying, Droniak enjoys the journey itself and finds the brief getaways rewarding. “I just want to break the stigma that you need a week to go anywhere if you want to go somewhere, and if you don’t have time to take off work, you could literally just go for the day. You can make it work,” he told People. His travels are also shaped by personal priorities; as the manager and caregiver for his 95-year-old grandmother, "Grandma Droniak," he limits trip duration to stay available for her. Ultimately, Droniak inspires others with his practical yet adventurous spirit, proving that grand travel experiences can happen even in a single day. But, realistically, how? Certainly travelling on a dime seems like a lofty pipe dream. What if you could, though? What would it take and how can you make it happen? It's not impossible to experience amazing and fulfilling on a budget. The key word though, is 'buget.'
Kevin Droniak, a 27-year-old content creator, has captivated audiences with his innovative approach to travel, undertaking 24-hour trips to destinations such as Paris, Egypt and Puerto Rico. His philosophy centres on maximizing experiences without the need for extended vacations or hefty budgets. Droniak's method involves skipping hotel accommodations and focusing on one main activity per trip, such as visiting a beach or a landmark, allowing him to make the most of short stays. One of his most notable journeys was a $650 excursion to see the pyramids in Egypt. He described it to People Magazine as a dream fulfilled rather than a splurge, highlighting that fulfilling adventures don't require extended vacations or large budgets. Despite extensive flying, Droniak enjoys the journey itself and finds the brief getaways rewarding. “I just want to break the stigma that you need a week to go anywhere if you want to go somewhere, and if you don’t have time to take off work, you could literally just go for the day. You can make it work,” he told People. His travels are also shaped by personal priorities; as the manager and caregiver for his 95-year-old grandmother, "Grandma Droniak," he limits trip duration to stay available for her. Ultimately, Droniak inspires others with his practical yet adventurous spirit, proving that grand travel experiences can happen even in a single day. But, realistically, how? Certainly travelling on a dime seems like a lofty pipe dream. What if you could, though? What would it take and how can you make it happen? It's not impossible to experience amazing and fulfilling on a budget. The key word though, is 'buget.'
10 best neighbourhoods in Montreal
One of Canada’s largest urban centres, Montreal is known as a vibrant Quebecois city, rich in history, culture and culinary delights. The city’s bilingual reputation adds a certain “je ne sais quoi” to the allure of the metropolis. Despite its harsh winters, Montreal rewards its residents with a bevy of welcoming and personality-rich neighbourhoods that offer distinct assets, ranging from family-friendly, park-filled boroughs to hip and trendy ‘hoods ideal for the young professional.
One of Canada’s largest urban centres, Montreal is known as a vibrant Quebecois city, rich in history, culture and culinary delights. The city’s bilingual reputation adds a certain “je ne sais quoi” to the allure of the metropolis. Despite its harsh winters, Montreal rewards its residents with a bevy of welcoming and personality-rich neighbourhoods that offer distinct assets, ranging from family-friendly, park-filled boroughs to hip and trendy ‘hoods ideal for the young professional.
100 millionaires share their secrets to wealth
Jamie Catmull, host of The Richer Way podcast, has spent years interviewing more than 100 millionaires — from high-powered CEOs and industry leaders to self-made entrepreneurs — to uncover the key to their success. "I wanted to help people take more control of their finances … share how (highly successful people) dealt with setbacks and came out stronger,” Catmull reveals in a CNBC article. “They don’t sit around waiting for anything, certainly not luck, because they make their own.” Catmull has identified some common traits we can all learn from.
Jamie Catmull, host of The Richer Way podcast, has spent years interviewing more than 100 millionaires — from high-powered CEOs and industry leaders to self-made entrepreneurs — to uncover the key to their success. "I wanted to help people take more control of their finances … share how (highly successful people) dealt with setbacks and came out stronger,” Catmull reveals in a CNBC article. “They don’t sit around waiting for anything, certainly not luck, because they make their own.” Catmull has identified some common traits we can all learn from.
Should I never retire?
Many people look forward to retirement and can't wait to kick off that chapter in life. But for some people, that part of the story isn't appealing. If you're 63, you're at a time when it is reasonable to consider your financial stability during retirement. Even though you haven’t hit 65, you're still old enough to collect the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) benefit, although you'll be looking at a reduced monthly sum since each year you delay, until age 70, the more you'll earn. If you have a decent amount of savings or a pension, you could retire at 63 or shortly thereafter without worry. But it's not just the financials you'll need to think about. There's your mental health and loneliness to consider — aspects of retirement that should not be overlooked.
Many people look forward to retirement and can't wait to kick off that chapter in life. But for some people, that part of the story isn't appealing. If you're 63, you're at a time when it is reasonable to consider your financial stability during retirement. Even though you haven’t hit 65, you're still old enough to collect the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) benefit, although you'll be looking at a reduced monthly sum since each year you delay, until age 70, the more you'll earn. If you have a decent amount of savings or a pension, you could retire at 63 or shortly thereafter without worry. But it's not just the financials you'll need to think about. There's your mental health and loneliness to consider — aspects of retirement that should not be overlooked.
Make your paycheque work harder with EQ Bank’s 4%
As traditional banks quietly trim returns, cutting interest rates on savings and high-interest accounts, EQ Bank is flipping the script. Even as banking customers adjust to lower interest rates, EQ Bank is forging a path the other way — offering up to 4% interest on its Personal Account and Joint Account. That’s 1.25% everyday interest plus an extra 2.75% when you set up a payroll direct deposit. In plain terms: If you're tired of your money sitting idle and earning next to nothing, EQ Bank is one of the best places to park your paycheque. Here’s why.
As traditional banks quietly trim returns, cutting interest rates on savings and high-interest accounts, EQ Bank is flipping the script. Even as banking customers adjust to lower interest rates, EQ Bank is forging a path the other way — offering up to 4% interest on its Personal Account and Joint Account. That’s 1.25% everyday interest plus an extra 2.75% when you set up a payroll direct deposit. In plain terms: If you're tired of your money sitting idle and earning next to nothing, EQ Bank is one of the best places to park your paycheque. Here’s why.
Charge card vs. credit card
While most Canadians are familiar with the term “credit card,” the term “charge card” is much less common. However, the two have several things in common and are important financial tools that can serve distinct purposes for individuals with different financial needs and habits. Understanding the differences between a charge card vs credit card is crucial for making informed decisions about which type of card is best for you.
While most Canadians are familiar with the term “credit card,” the term “charge card” is much less common. However, the two have several things in common and are important financial tools that can serve distinct purposes for individuals with different financial needs and habits. Understanding the differences between a charge card vs credit card is crucial for making informed decisions about which type of card is best for you.
How to dispute a credit card charge
I have a confession to make. I’m among that rare breed of credit card user that you’ve heard about but never really believed exists. That’s right: I’m a credit card statement confirmer. Every time I get a credit card statement, I dig out the receipts I carefully put aside each month and check each and every one against my credit card statement to ensure that I don’t have a problematic charge. It’s tedious sure, but I’ve caught two charges that were errors and thus saved over $200. Hopefully you do the same. Or at the very least you should give your statement a good once over to confirm that you made all the purchases listed. Mistakes can happen more often than you think. If you do ever notice that you’ve been wrongly charged for an item, here’s what you can do to successfully dispute a transaction.
I have a confession to make. I’m among that rare breed of credit card user that you’ve heard about but never really believed exists. That’s right: I’m a credit card statement confirmer. Every time I get a credit card statement, I dig out the receipts I carefully put aside each month and check each and every one against my credit card statement to ensure that I don’t have a problematic charge. It’s tedious sure, but I’ve caught two charges that were errors and thus saved over $200. Hopefully you do the same. Or at the very least you should give your statement a good once over to confirm that you made all the purchases listed. Mistakes can happen more often than you think. If you do ever notice that you’ve been wrongly charged for an item, here’s what you can do to successfully dispute a transaction.
How to rescue your retirement savings in your 40s
Picture John, a 42-year-old who hasn’t started putting away money for retirement yet. He doesn’t have any savings or even an emergency fund set aside for unexpected expenses, and he’s starting to panic. Sound familiar? If you're in your 40s and haven’t put much thought into retirement savings, now's the time to get serious. The need to set specific, realistic goals for retirement savings becomes crucial at this stage in life. It’s not too late to make a dent in building your retirement fund, but the clock is ticking. Here are some strategies to help you catch up and set yourself up to maximize savings.
Picture John, a 42-year-old who hasn’t started putting away money for retirement yet. He doesn’t have any savings or even an emergency fund set aside for unexpected expenses, and he’s starting to panic. Sound familiar? If you're in your 40s and haven’t put much thought into retirement savings, now's the time to get serious. The need to set specific, realistic goals for retirement savings becomes crucial at this stage in life. It’s not too late to make a dent in building your retirement fund, but the clock is ticking. Here are some strategies to help you catch up and set yourself up to maximize savings.
Merchant category codes
Canadians love their rewards and cash back credit cards and we’re always looking for ways to maximize how we use them. But it turns out that making the most of a rewards card comes down to more than just aligning your spending with the best earning categories.
Canadians love their rewards and cash back credit cards and we’re always looking for ways to maximize how we use them. But it turns out that making the most of a rewards card comes down to more than just aligning your spending with the best earning categories.
Reducing hunger a rare point of unity in Canada
As Canadians head into a pivotal election season, one issue stands out for its rare consensus: hunger. According to Food Banks Canada’s new Election Report, 92% of adults agree that no one in the country should ever go hungry, and 84% say reducing food insecurity should be a top, non-partisan priority. "This is a time when we're thinking about Canada's future, and federal election candidates are sharing their views on what it means to build a more resilient and compassionate nation," Kirstin Beardsley, Food Banks Canada CEO, said in a statement. "The data is clear that there is strong support for setting the goal of cutting hunger in half by 2030. People care about their neighbours' well-being, and they want action from their government. Most importantly, folks from every region across the country agree that, if we make the right choices, Canada has the resources to reverse soaring food bank visits."
As Canadians head into a pivotal election season, one issue stands out for its rare consensus: hunger. According to Food Banks Canada’s new Election Report, 92% of adults agree that no one in the country should ever go hungry, and 84% say reducing food insecurity should be a top, non-partisan priority. "This is a time when we're thinking about Canada's future, and federal election candidates are sharing their views on what it means to build a more resilient and compassionate nation," Kirstin Beardsley, Food Banks Canada CEO, said in a statement. "The data is clear that there is strong support for setting the goal of cutting hunger in half by 2030. People care about their neighbours' well-being, and they want action from their government. Most importantly, folks from every region across the country agree that, if we make the right choices, Canada has the resources to reverse soaring food bank visits."
Tips for lending money to friends and family
A few years ago, your brother borrowed money to help pay for groceries for several months, and paid you back. But now, he finds himself short of cash again and you’re not sure whether you want to lend her more money. Wanting to help out a friend or family member when they’re in a financial bind may seem like a no-brainer, but you need to be sure you’re also taking care of your needs as well. For one, you want to make sure you have enough room in the budget to pay for your own expenses — and lend money. You may also need to mitigate other risks, like potential strain on your relationship. Let’s take a closer look at these risks and how to responsibly lend the money, if you choose to do so.
A few years ago, your brother borrowed money to help pay for groceries for several months, and paid you back. But now, he finds himself short of cash again and you’re not sure whether you want to lend her more money. Wanting to help out a friend or family member when they’re in a financial bind may seem like a no-brainer, but you need to be sure you’re also taking care of your needs as well. For one, you want to make sure you have enough room in the budget to pay for your own expenses — and lend money. You may also need to mitigate other risks, like potential strain on your relationship. Let’s take a closer look at these risks and how to responsibly lend the money, if you choose to do so.
Salary doubled: How to budget after a big raise
Early in your career, big pay increases can happen quickly — you get a new job in a much larger company, you advance through the ranks at your current company or you move to a new industry where salaries are typically higher than you could command previously. After the excitement of signing a big contract is over, you might ask yourself: “Now what?” While you might be tempted to make your first major payday all about fun purchases, it’s still important to stick to tried-and-true financial principles. There are no guarantees in today's world. You could suddenly lose your job, and the money you’ve made has to last. As a case study, let’s say you’re a single young professional who has moved from a $100,000 to a $200,000 salary role. Here, we’ll cover budgeting, saving and investing to help you make the most of your new income.
Early in your career, big pay increases can happen quickly — you get a new job in a much larger company, you advance through the ranks at your current company or you move to a new industry where salaries are typically higher than you could command previously. After the excitement of signing a big contract is over, you might ask yourself: “Now what?” While you might be tempted to make your first major payday all about fun purchases, it’s still important to stick to tried-and-true financial principles. There are no guarantees in today's world. You could suddenly lose your job, and the money you’ve made has to last. As a case study, let’s say you’re a single young professional who has moved from a $100,000 to a $200,000 salary role. Here, we’ll cover budgeting, saving and investing to help you make the most of your new income.
Election 2025: Investing in Canadian industries
This year’s election cycle is anything but boring, and that’s putting it lightly. Between rising global tensions, and the return of Trump-era tariffs, it’s easy to feel uneasy about investing your money. More investors are looking local for opportunity. There’s a growing “Buy Canada” push from policy-makers, retailers and investors alike. But where does that leave the everyday Canadian? With the Canadian federal election taking place on April 28, let’s take a look at each party leader and where this might lead in the future of investment in Canada.
This year’s election cycle is anything but boring, and that’s putting it lightly. Between rising global tensions, and the return of Trump-era tariffs, it’s easy to feel uneasy about investing your money. More investors are looking local for opportunity. There’s a growing “Buy Canada” push from policy-makers, retailers and investors alike. But where does that leave the everyday Canadian? With the Canadian federal election taking place on April 28, let’s take a look at each party leader and where this might lead in the future of investment in Canada.
Toronto Marathon brings $50M to economy
Turns out running isn’t just good for cardio, overall health and longevity, it also lends a helping hand to the economy. According to a recently released study, the 2024 Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) Toronto Waterfront Marathon generated $50.3 million in economic impact for the City of Toronto and $56.3 million in Ontario economic activity. "Canada has always been a meeting place of cultures, and our marathon embodies that spirit through the strong community built by our participants. Racers from over 70 countries come together bringing their stories, families, and energy to our city, all united in the spirit of sport and philanthropy," said Charlotte Brookes, Canada Running Series. "This event is proof that local tourism is thriving, and that our global connections strengthen us at home."
Turns out running isn’t just good for cardio, overall health and longevity, it also lends a helping hand to the economy. According to a recently released study, the 2024 Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) Toronto Waterfront Marathon generated $50.3 million in economic impact for the City of Toronto and $56.3 million in Ontario economic activity. "Canada has always been a meeting place of cultures, and our marathon embodies that spirit through the strong community built by our participants. Racers from over 70 countries come together bringing their stories, families, and energy to our city, all united in the spirit of sport and philanthropy," said Charlotte Brookes, Canada Running Series. "This event is proof that local tourism is thriving, and that our global connections strengthen us at home."
Best combinations for credit cards
Monogamy is a pleasant concept in theory. But can we really expect any one credit card to satisfy all our needs? Rather than committing to one card only, cash back and rewards gurus carefully combine two or more complementary cards to fill in the others’ weaknesses. We created hypothetical spending profiles for different types of Canadian consumers and ran the numbers to select the best credit card combinations for earning optimal cash back and rewards, without sacrificing the essential card features you need. When reviewing the below, keep in mind that we’re focusing on long-term, multi-year value, so we didn’t factor the cards’ welcome offers into our calculations. Some of the spending profiles we created are for couples or families; others are for singles (we noted which is which). Because some credit cards are exceptionally strong for different types of spenders, they may appear in multiple categories. Now, without further ado:
Monogamy is a pleasant concept in theory. But can we really expect any one credit card to satisfy all our needs? Rather than committing to one card only, cash back and rewards gurus carefully combine two or more complementary cards to fill in the others’ weaknesses. We created hypothetical spending profiles for different types of Canadian consumers and ran the numbers to select the best credit card combinations for earning optimal cash back and rewards, without sacrificing the essential card features you need. When reviewing the below, keep in mind that we’re focusing on long-term, multi-year value, so we didn’t factor the cards’ welcome offers into our calculations. Some of the spending profiles we created are for couples or families; others are for singles (we noted which is which). Because some credit cards are exceptionally strong for different types of spenders, they may appear in multiple categories. Now, without further ado:
Turn your tax refund into long-term financial gain
As tax season wraps up, many Canadians are anticipating a refund. While it might be tempting to splurge, financial experts suggest that strategically using this money can significantly impact your financial health. Given the current economic climate, with high living costs and rising debt levels, making informed decisions about your refund is more crucial than ever.
As tax season wraps up, many Canadians are anticipating a refund. While it might be tempting to splurge, financial experts suggest that strategically using this money can significantly impact your financial health. Given the current economic climate, with high living costs and rising debt levels, making informed decisions about your refund is more crucial than ever.
I just lost $15k. Should I fire my advisor?
Imagine the jolt of anxiety as you log into your investment account and see a $15,000 loss staring back. You're far from alone in this feeling. In today's climate, where market volatility can be triggered by a multitude of global factors, experiencing significant portfolio drops is a reality many investors face. But when should these market-driven fluctuations prompt a serious re-evaluation of your advisor, and what concrete steps should you consider? Understanding the emotional and financial implications of potentially ending this professional relationship is paramount.
Imagine the jolt of anxiety as you log into your investment account and see a $15,000 loss staring back. You're far from alone in this feeling. In today's climate, where market volatility can be triggered by a multitude of global factors, experiencing significant portfolio drops is a reality many investors face. But when should these market-driven fluctuations prompt a serious re-evaluation of your advisor, and what concrete steps should you consider? Understanding the emotional and financial implications of potentially ending this professional relationship is paramount.
3 affordable ways to furnish your new apartment
Signing the lease for a new apartment is an exciting experience. But, the financial implications of furnishing an apartment can be overwhelming. According to Furniture Bank — a Toronto-based social enterprise that re-homes furniture to those in need — the average cost to furnish a one bedroom apartment is $8,353. Now that, plus the cost of first and last month’s rent and a security deposit, is a lot to fork over. While furniture is going to be a bit costly regardless, there are still ways you can furnish your new apartment without totally breaking the bank and still making it feel like home. Here are three ways you can furnish a new place (methods I’ve used myself) and keep the cost to a minimum.
Signing the lease for a new apartment is an exciting experience. But, the financial implications of furnishing an apartment can be overwhelming. According to Furniture Bank — a Toronto-based social enterprise that re-homes furniture to those in need — the average cost to furnish a one bedroom apartment is $8,353. Now that, plus the cost of first and last month’s rent and a security deposit, is a lot to fork over. While furniture is going to be a bit costly regardless, there are still ways you can furnish your new apartment without totally breaking the bank and still making it feel like home. Here are three ways you can furnish a new place (methods I’ve used myself) and keep the cost to a minimum.
How to protect yourself from online puppy scams
There’s no more popular time to bring a puppy home than in the spring. And puppy scammers know this, that’s why they’re popping up like daisies all over the internet. According to recent data from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), online pet scams have increased dramatically, with reported incidents doubling in Canada over the past year. An alarming 75% of websites advertising puppies for sale are fraudulent. Financial losses from these scams have skyrocketed to over $3 million in the last 12 months — a sixfold increase compared to three years ago. These scammers often target people looking to purchase purebred or designer dogs, advertising them at suspiciously low prices. For example, they might list a purebred puppy for $800 when the typical market price is around $4,000. While dogs are the primary focus of these scams, representing 88% of reported cases, cats are also targeted, accounting for about 12% of reported pet scam incidents.
There’s no more popular time to bring a puppy home than in the spring. And puppy scammers know this, that’s why they’re popping up like daisies all over the internet. According to recent data from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), online pet scams have increased dramatically, with reported incidents doubling in Canada over the past year. An alarming 75% of websites advertising puppies for sale are fraudulent. Financial losses from these scams have skyrocketed to over $3 million in the last 12 months — a sixfold increase compared to three years ago. These scammers often target people looking to purchase purebred or designer dogs, advertising them at suspiciously low prices. For example, they might list a purebred puppy for $800 when the typical market price is around $4,000. While dogs are the primary focus of these scams, representing 88% of reported cases, cats are also targeted, accounting for about 12% of reported pet scam incidents.
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