Author: Robert Jessi

Currently in Canada, I find myself looking through the uncharted waters of economic uncertainty in this country, considering not only the conclusion of the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) loans program but also contending with the distressing surge in bankruptcies and the looming shadow of escalating unemployment. These recent developments have woven a complex tapestry of challenges, each thread interconnected and deeply impacting the livelihoods of countless Canadians. The CEBA loans, once a beacon of hope amid the storm of the pandemic, served as a critical lifeline for businesses across the country. They provided the necessary financial bolster to weather…

As I delve into the economic landscape of my beloved Canada, one thing that has recently caught my attention since 2020 is the shrinking current account deficit. Now, let me tell you, it’s not every day that you witness such a significant shift in the economic tide. But before we delve deeper into the implications of this shrinkage, let’s first get our bearings straight and understand what exactly the current account deficit entails. Here is how our government defines it: You see, when we talk about the balance of payments, there are various components to consider, but two primary ones…

As someone who’s always been fascinated by the allure of precious metals, I found myself delving deeper into the world of investments, seeking ways to diversify my portfolio while still holding onto that tangible connection to gold and silver. It’s in this pursuit that I stumbled upon Exchange Traded Notes (ETRs) offered by the Royal Canadian Mint, and let me tell you, it opened up a whole new avenue for me to explore. So, what exactly are ETRs, you might wonder? Well, think of them as a bridge between traditional securities and the world of precious metals. Instead of physically…

As Canadians closely monitor global economic trends, the looming recessions in Europe have me deeply concerned about the potential ramifications for here at home country. With Europe serving as one of Canada’s largest trading partners, any economic downturn across the Atlantic could reverberate across our economy, affecting businesses, employment, and overall prosperity. According to government authorities, the forecast for Europe’s economy paints a grim picture. As I delve deeper into the potential impact, I find myself recalling a recent report that Canada’s export volume has already begun to dwindle, particularly to countries like the United Kingdom. Despite the implementation of…

As a Canadian, it’s hard to ignore the stark reality: vehicles have transformed from a common necessity to a luxury. Delving into the statistics from sources like Trading Economics, it becomes evident that since the late 90s and early 2000s, new vehicle sales in Canada have remained relatively stagnant, hovering between 100,000 to 200,000 annually, with an average around 150,000. This trend persists despite a significant surge in population over the past two decades. Blame it on what you will – high taxes, chronically low wages, inflation-driven central bank policies, or stringent regulations – the bottom line remains the same:…

As I sit down to reflect on the state of Canada’s failing economy, it’s impossible to ignore the urgency in the air. A senior Bank of Canada official recently sounded the alarm, highlighting the pressing need to boost our nation’s productivity. And let me tell you, it’s probably far worse than many might think. You see, the need to enhance productivity isn’t just a matter of economic growth; it’s become nothing short of an emergency. In her recent speech, senior deputy governor Carolyn Rogers didn’t mince words at all when she emphasized that our economy’s sluggish productivity poses a significant…

Imagine being a farmer in Canada’s agricultural industry and seeing the recent announcement from the federal government. Let me tell you why the new cap on temporary foreign workers (TFWs) threatens not just their livelihoods, but the very foundation of our Canada’s national food supply. You see, when it comes to running a successful farm, having a reliable workforce is absolutely crucial. And for almost all farms in Canada from east to west, that means relying on temporary foreign workers to fill essential roles, especially during peak seasons when the demand for labor is at its highest. Now, you might…

When I think about the possibility of my future retirement, the question of whether I can retire without owning a home resonates deeply with me. Throughout my life, the notion that home ownership is paramount for financial stability, particularly in retirement, has been ingrained in my mind. However, life often unfolds in unexpected ways, prompting me to question the conventional wisdom surrounding this belief. In my opinion, it’s time to critically examine whether home ownership is truly indispensable for a secure retirement in Canada. Drawing insights from reputable sources such as the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and Wikipedia,…

As I embark on this introspective journey into Canada’s economic landscape, I find myself drawn to the pivotal moment that altered our nation’s trajectory indefinitely – the 2008 economic crisis. It’s a narrative deeply ingrained in my memory, one that fundamentally shifted my perspective on our country’s economic resilience and future prospects. In this narrative, I, like many others, find a tale of shattered dreams, hidden recessions, and glimmers of hope amidst uncertainty. In my experience, the 2008 economic crisis served as a wake-up call, shaking the very foundation of Canada’s economic stability. Before that fateful year, there was an…

As an investor who has closely observed the financial landscape of Canada, I find myself deeply concerned about recent discussions regarding the potential politicization of the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) by the federal Liberal government. In my experience, the CPP has been a vital pillar of our retirement system, prudently managed and insulated from political influence. However, recent developments have raised red flags, prompting me to speak out against any attempt to jeopardize its integrity. One of the primary reasons the CPP has thrived over the years is its commitment to diversification, both geographically and across asset classes. Critics may…