I recently watched a video from Great-West Life about some research collected from the 2013 CAP Benchmark Report. In this video, Jeff Aarssen walks through some strategies from the research to help create and maintain a successful Group Retirement Plan. Early Enrollment Most plans have an eligibility period on their plans before employees can join… Continue Reading
Stock Market Historical data
I like numbers so I don’t shy away fro the fact that I like statistical analysis and data. As a result, I’ve collected some data on the stock markets that may be interesting to some people. Before I show you the stock market historical data, I want to put forth my disclaimer: This data has… Continue Reading
New Financial Planning Data for 2013
A new year means new limits and data. Here’s a list of new financial planning data for 2013 (In case you want to compare this to past years, I’ve included old data as well). Pension and RRSP contribution limits The new limit for RRSPs for 2013 is 18% of the previous year’s earned income or… Continue Reading
2012 Stock Market Review
2012 is over and there is nothing but good news in this stock market review because stock markets posted really decent returns. Here’s a chart showing different asset class returns for the past 5 calendar years. 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 Cash 0.90% 1.00% 0.54% 0.63% 3.33% DEX Universe Bonds 3.60% 9.67% 6.74% 5.41% 6.41%… Continue Reading
Tiering group benefit programs
When it comes to a group benefit plan there are typically two trains of thought. The first is to treat all employees the same and thus put in a benefit plan where everyone has the same benefits. The second train of thought is to tier the benefit plan so that different groups of employees have… Continue Reading
Understanding Fees for Group RRSPs and Defined Contribution Pension Plans
Much has been written about fees in the mutual fund industry but I still come across people who have no clue what fees they are paying on their investments. Related article: Mutual Funds and Fees When it comes to fees for Group RRSPs and Defined Contribution Pension Plans, there is an even greater misunderstanding about fees both… Continue Reading
Are Canadians using RRSPs properly?
Recently I’ve read a bunch of stats and articles on RRSP usage in Canada, which makes me wonder if Canadians are using RRSPs properly. I also see this in my financial education workshops where I am surprised at the number of people who don’t really understand the basics of how the RRSPs work and how… Continue Reading
Understanding withdrawal restrictions, suspensions and other consequences
One of the key decisions that needs to be made around Group RRSP and pension plans is whether employers want to allow employees to withdraw money from the Group retirement program. More and more, we are seeing employers who are concerned at the high number of withdrawals being taken out of Group RRSP plans. I’ve… Continue Reading