The volatility hitting Europe and the risk of damage to the global economy means the Bank of Canada may move to cut its benchmark interest rate to ward off the risk of recession. Some economists are predicting a cut in the prime rate anywhere from 0.5% to 0.75%. Even if they are wrong the general [...]
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Pay Down Mortgage or Contribute to RRSP?
Clients often ask me whether they should pay down their mortgage or contribute to their RRSP. Here are the things to consider: If you pay off your mortgage first and then start contributing to your RRSPs, you are guaranteed a tax free return equivalent to your mortgage interest rate. The problem is in today’s interest [...]
How to Save Thousands in Medical Costs for the Self-Employed
If you are self-employed then you either have no medical coverage other than MSP and are paying for medical expenses in after-tax dollars or you are paying for private medical coverage, costly coverage for services you may or may not be using. There is a much better solution without restrictions, predictable costs and no unused [...]
Liquid Assets are Vital to Building a Strong Real Estate Portfolio
Ever since the Sub-prime meltdown in the US, a number of the banks that have been excellent sources of mortgage funding for investors wanting to build their portfolios, have changed policy. Of the number of changes, including max 80% financing, max 5 rental properties, max mortgage liability per customer, higher debt coverage requirements, etc., one [...]
HOW Your Money Is Invested Is As Important As WHAT It’s Invested In
How an investment is funded can be as strategic as the choice of investment itself. If you come into a lump sum of money such as a company bonus or inheritance and are looking at investing that money, the Smith Maneuver may be the strategy of choice. The Smith Maneuver was created by the late [...]
RRSPs – Planning to Be Poor?
Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) are designed to promote saving and take advantage of tax deferred growth. The funds we draw from our RRSP are 100% taxable at our marginal tax rate. The thought process is that at retirement we will be earning less and therefore be at a lower tax bracket making this a [...]
Maximizing Return With an Investment Loan
With markets down 21% since their highs in March and companies trading at historical lows in terms of price to earnings ratios, it may be a great opportunity to get back into the market. Companies are awash in cash and many trading at below book value meaning the companies’ underlying assets are worth more than [...]
Guaranteed Income for Life
For those in or approaching retirement, guaranteeing your income and knowing how long you will receive it for is of utmost importance. It is especially important in times like these where market volatility could mean the difference between retiring next year or in 10 years. A handful of the insurance companies, with Manulife being the [...]
Securing Your Children’s Financial Security…Forever
As parents we want the best for our children. We want the best education, the best health, the best future. Setting your children up for wealth and security should be the top priority for all parents One insurance company has a fantastic product for parents looking to provide wealth and protection for their children. [...]
Guaranteed Returns For the Rest of Your Life – Regardless of the Market
With the recent turn in the stock market, many investors are getting that weary sinking feeling again especially those getting close to retirement. It is difficult to predict the markets. Wouldn’t it be nice to have your money invested in a product where there is guaranteed growth of your contributions, even if markets go [...]
Peter also manages his own multi-million dollar rental property real estate portfolio which he co-owns with investors. Unlike many financial advisors, Peter uses a global approach to investing and puts money where his mouth is by personally using many of the strategies he advises his clients on.Peter Merabian helps Canadian individuals and families by providing investment and tax saving strategies that help them achieve their financial goals sooner.
