The TSX today remains a stressful place for many investors. The volatility that continues to weigh on the minds of investors hasn’t gone away. And it’s leaving many out of the opportunities in the market.
If you’re one of these stressed investors, then there is an answer to your woes. Invest in safe exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
ETFs: Safety in volatility
In an interview with Jonathan Needham, vice president and director, and Lead of ETF Distribution at TD Asset Management, the director pointed out that ETFs have remained popular during volatile economic environments. This mainly comes down to the diversification provided by these ETFs, which provide strong, risk-adjusted returns for investors. This allows investors to continue receiving positive returns and reach long-term goals.
And just like stocks, investors have the flexibility to see how their investments are doing in real time, along with the flexibility to trade an ETF at any time of day.
“Most importantly, with ETFs, investors can gain instant diversification to a portfolio of different securities,” Needham said. “And the power of buying a basket of securities versus betting on a single horse is certainly a lot smoother ride for that investor, especially during a volatile economic environment.”
Getting professional
That diversification certainly counts. But the reason it’s so successful is because there is a team of professionals managing how each ETF invests. Instead of managing a portfolio of equities, an ETF can provide you with the security of knowing that your money is being managed professionally.
This doesn’t mean you don’t have a choice in how you invest in an ETF. Instead, you can look at themes, asset classes, industries, geographic regions, and even highly specialized strategies that can align with an investor’s own beliefs. From there, investors can receive a basket of assets based on what they feel is important to their own personal financial growth. Moreover, it’s far less expensive than going with a broker.
“Compared to other investment funds, ETFs tend to have lower management fees and operating costs. Lower fees mean more of your savings are invested, which — with the benefits of compounding — can improve your return,” Needham said.
Make it easy
As mentioned, choosing an ETF doesn’t mean you have no choice. In fact, there are thousands of ETFs out there to choose from. Yet when it comes to finding the best one, perhaps go with the simplest.
One option to consider is investing in the S&P 500 through a high-yield, low-cost ETF. These types of ETFs are exactly what Warren Buffett, financial guru and billionaire, has long recommended to investors. Over time, returns on the S&P 500 have been enormous, and there are Canadian ETFs that can allow you to get in on that action.
One example is Vanguard S&P 500 Index ETF, with a 1.24% dividend yield and year-to-date returns of 16.25% as of writing. This provides you with the top companies on the S&P 500 today, along with passive income through dividends.
Bottom line
This easy solution is exactly what Needham points to, as ETFs continue to be a strong driver for investors looking for a low cost and easy access to the markets — all while counting on professional help rather than trusting your gut instincts.
“The ease of use is ETF’s biggest draw for consumers — investors can easily build a diverse and robust portfolio with a low cost of entry and transparent reports,” Needham said. “Adjustments, on the margin, depending on the market environment we are in or going into, can also help to improve outcomes for clients, not to mention the experience or better put, emotions or bad behaviours that investors can sometimes display during market volatility.”
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TORONTO – Canada’s main stock index was up more than 250 points in late-morning trading, led by strength in the base metal and technology sectors, while U.S. stock markets also charged higher.
The S&P/TSX composite index was up 254.62 points at 23,847.22.
In New York, the Dow Jones industrial average was up 432.77 points at 41,935.87. The S&P 500 index was up 96.38 points at 5,714.64, while the Nasdaq composite was up 486.12 points at 18,059.42.
The Canadian dollar traded for 73.68 cents US compared with 73.58 cents US on Thursday.
The November crude oil contract was up 89 cents at US$70.77 per barrel and the October natural gas contract was down a penny at US2.27 per mmBTU.
The December gold contract was up US$9.40 at US$2,608.00 an ounce and the December copper contract was up four cents at US$4.33 a pound.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 19, 2024.
Losing a loved one is never easy, and the legal steps that follow can add even more stress to an already difficult time.
For years, families in Vancouver (and Canada in general) have struggled with a complex probate process—filled with paperwork and legal challenges.
Thankfully, recent changes to Canada’s probate laws aim to make this process simpler and easier to navigate.
Let’s unearth how these updates can simplify the process for you and your family.
What is probate?
Probate might sound complicated, but it’s simply the legal process of settling someone’s estate after death.
Here’s how it works.
Validating the will. The court checks if the will is legal and valid.
Appointing an executor. If named in the will, the executor manages the estate. If not, the court appoints someone.
Settling debts and taxes. The executor (and you) pays debts and taxes before anything can be given.
Distributing the estate. Once everything is settled, the executor distributes the remaining assets according to the will or legal rules.
Probate ensures everything is done by the book, giving you peace of mind during a difficult time.
Recent Changes in Canadian Probate Laws
Several updates to probate law in the country are making the process smoother for you and your family.
Here’s a closer look at the fundamental changes that are making a real difference.
1) Virtual witnessing of wills
Now permanent in many provinces, including British Columbia, wills can be signed and witnessed remotely through video calls.
Such a change makes estate planning more accessible, especially for those in remote areas or with limited mobility.
2) Simplified process for small estates
Smaller estates, like those under 25,000 CAD in BC, now have a faster, simplified probate process.
Fewer forms and legal steps mean less hassle for families handling modest estates.
3) Substantial compliance for wills
Courts can now approve wills with minor errors if they reflect the person’s true intentions.
This update prevents unnecessary legal challenges and ensures the deceased’s wishes are respected.
These changes help make probate less stressful and more efficient for you and other families across Canada.
The Probate Process and You: The Role of a Probate Lawyer
(Image: Freepik.com)
Working with a probate lawyer in Vancouver can significantly simplify the probate process, especially given the city’s complex legal landscape.
Here’s how they can help.
Navigating the legal process
Probate lawyers ensure all legal steps are followed, preventing costly mistakes and ensuring the estate is managed properly.
Handling paperwork and deadlines
They manage all the paperwork and court deadlines, taking the burden off of you during this difficult time.
Resolving disputes
If conflicts arise, probate lawyers resolve them, avoiding legal battles.
Providing you peace of mind
With a probate lawyer’s expertise, you can trust that the estate is being handled efficiently and according to the law.
With a skilled probate lawyer, you can ensure the entire process is smooth and stress-free.
Why These Changes Matter
The updates to probate law make a big difference for Canadian families. Here’s why.
Less stress for you. Simplified processes mean you can focus on grieving, not paperwork.
Faster estate settlements. Estates are settled more quickly, so beneficiaries don’t face long delays.
Fewer disputes. Courts can now honor will with minor errors, reducing family conflicts.
Accessible for everyone. Virtual witnessing and easier rules for small estates make probate more accessible for everyone, no matter where you live.
With these changes, probate becomes smoother and more manageable for you and your family.
How to Prepare for the Probate Process
Even with the recent changes, being prepared makes probate smoother. Here are a few steps to help you prepare.
Create a will. Ensure a valid will is in place to avoid complications.
Choose an executor. Pick someone responsible for managing the estate and discuss their role with them.
Organize documents. Keep key financial and legal documents in one place for easy access.
Talk to your family. Have open conversations with your family to prevent future misunderstandings.
Get legal advice. Consult with a probate lawyer to ensure everything is legally sound and up-to-date.
These simple steps make the probate process easier for everyone involved.
Wrapping Up: Making Probate Easier in Vancouver
Recent updates in probate law are simplifying the process for families, from virtual witnessing to easier estate rules. These reforms are designed to ease the burden, helping you focus on what matters—grieving and respecting your dead loved ones’ final wishes.
Despite these changes, it’s best to consult a probate lawyer to ensure you can manage everything properly. Remember, they’re here to help you during this difficult time.
TORONTO – Canada’s main stock index was higher in late-morning trading, helped by strength in energy stocks, while U.S. stock markets also moved up.
The S&P/TSX composite index was up 34.91 points at 23,736.98.
In New York, the Dow Jones industrial average was up 178.05 points at 41,800.13. The S&P 500 index was up 28.38 points at 5,661.47, while the Nasdaq composite was up 133.17 points at 17,725.30.
The Canadian dollar traded for 73.56 cents US compared with 73.57 cents US on Monday.
The November crude oil contract was up 68 cents at US$69.70 per barrel and the October natural gas contract was up three cents at US$2.40 per mmBTU.
The December gold contract was down US$7.80 at US$2,601.10 an ounce and the December copper contract was up a penny at US$4.28 a pound.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 17, 2024.
