Economic Indicators

Consumer confidence dips

Canadian consumer sentiment dipped in the second quarter, but most expect the country will enjoy positive economic results over the coming five years, according to a Harris/Decima survey for Investors Group. The overall confidence reading edged lower to 83.7, from its first quarter reading of 86.2, but Canadians are still more optimistic than Americans, who […]

By Staff |June 9, 2011

2 min read

Seizing global opportunities

The French philosopher and nobleman was commenting on life in early modern France, a period of political intrigue, war and economic upheaval.

By Don Reed |June 9, 2011

4 min read

Five forces affecting your client’s portfolio

Soaring debt levels in advanced economies, overheating emerging markets and strict capital controls are among the global economic and financial challenges faced by financial planners, according to Thomas Hockin, executive director, International Monetary Fund, speaking at the CIFPs 9th Annual National Conference-2011, in Ottawa. “We’ve had 22 financial crises since 1945; financial crisis is the […]

By Vikram Barhat |June 8, 2011

3 min read

Recession was easy, recovery will be tough

Canada managed to navigate its way through the Great Recession of 2008 without much damage, but the time for self-congratulation may be over. There are a number of hazards on the horizon, including the withdrawal of government stimulus, rising interest rates and the stubbornly strong loonie is stifling exports. Canada—indeed, the world—still has some challenges […]

By Vikram Barhat |June 8, 2011

4 min read