Market Watch

We continue to see a widespread focus on inflation as central banks aim to settle their respective economies. Inflation has decreased here in Canada, but at a slower pace than expected. This could result in the central bank continuing strong action with future large interest rate hikes. We saw further market decline at the end of September and into the beginning of October, followed by a small rally in the past few weeks. This is typical of a market cycle, and we could see this pattern continue in the months ahead before potentially reaching a market bottom. Global issues continue to be of focus as well, with increased tensions with Russia, political uncertainty in the UK, and energy shortages in Europe.

A Look Towards the End of 2022

It's that time - the time to review your finances before the year ends. You may be thinking "but wait. We still have 2 months left!" To which I would say, let's be honest, with Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza, Yule and the many other religious and cultural celebrations going on, most people don't have the time to look at their finances in December. So, November is the month! That said, here are a few things you should look at before the New Year's bell rings:

Trigger Capital Losses:

This year has been a rough year for markets. That makes it a great year to look at the capital gains and losses in your non-registered accounts (accounts other than an RRSP, TFSA, RESP etc.). If large capital gains are a problem for you, you may want to trigger a gain now while the problem is reduced. Alternatively, if you have a negative position in your investments and could benefit from a capital loss for tax purposes, now would also be a good time to look at selling. Either way, make sure you talk with an accountant to see if this strategy would benefit you.

Donations:

If you are planning to donate investment assets for the purpose of claiming it on your 2022 taxes, I highly suggest you start the process now. Charities are inundated with donations in December and it can take weeks for a donation of shares or units to be processed … yikes!!! To better ensure you meet the December 31 deadline call your advisor ASAP.

Amalgamate your Accounts:

A task many people put off is consolidating their investments - an old work pension, a small TFSA, or old stock certificates are just some examples. Having your assets in multiple places makes it more difficult to track and plan. It also makes it difficult to properly diversify your underlying holdings in your overall portfolio, as none of your advisors/institutions will have complete knowledge of what is in your other accounts at all times. This could lead to you being overexposed in a sector/asset - which in turn can affect your volatility and therefore your risk.

Flip your RSPs and Pensions:

Turning 71 in 2022? If the answer is yes, congratulations, it is now time to 'flip' your RRSPs, Locked-In accounts, and pensions into RRIFs (Registered Retirement Income Funds), LIFs (Life Income Funds) or annuities. You don't have to start making withdrawals now BUT you must get them ready for 2023 - when you do need to start making withdrawals. Reach out to your advisor to get started.

Add to your RESPs:

Finally, add to your RESP(s). To get the maximum allowable RESP grant you need to contribute $2,500 per year, per child. You can also accumulate carry forward room for any years you did not add the full amount - up to an additional $2,500 annually. However, this carry-forward room can be lost without proper planning. Contact your advisor now to make sure you are taking full advantage of the RESP grant before the annual deadline, December 31.

To learn more about these strategies, and more, contact us at KLT Wealth Management.

- Courtney Beach, QAFP

A Fall Favourite... A Good Book and Cup of Warm Apple Cider

Ingredients:
1 (64 fluid ounce) bottle apple cider
3 cinnamon sticks
1 teaspoon whole allspice
1 teaspoon whole cloves
⅓ cup brown sugar

Directions:
Combine apple cider and cinnamon sticks in a slow cooker. Place allspice and cloves onto the center of an 8-inch square piece of cheesecloth. Gather edges of the cheesecloth together and tie to secure; place in the slow cooker. Stir in brown sugar. Cook on High until it comes to a boil. Reduce heat to Low and keep warm.

Monthly Recipe:

 Mediterranean White Bean Soup

Try this vegan Mediterranean White Bean Soup for lunch or dinner. It's a quick gluten free soup recipe that's filled with vegetables and plant-based protein.

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion chopped
2 garlic cloves minced
2-3 large carrots chopped
2-3 celery rib chopped
6 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
3 15-ounces canned white beans drained and rinsed
2 cups baby spinach Fresh parsley finely chopped, for serving Grated parmesan cheese, for serving

Directions:

In a large pot or saucepan, heat olive over medium high heat. Add onions and cook until onions are translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the garlic, carrots, celery, thyme, oregano, salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Add vegetable broth and beans, bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes to combine all of the flavours together. Stir in the spinach and continue to simmer until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes Remove from heat, sprinkle fresh parsley and grated parmesan cheese, if desired, and serve.

Enjoy!

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