Sunday, July 19News That Matters

Author: Arexl

Understanding FinTech in Canada

Understanding FinTech in Canada

BANKING
The FinTech landscape in Canada is expanding swiftly, with new entrants continually emerging to provide Canadians with enhanced options for their financial requirements. Even established banking institutions have acknowledged the significance of FinTech, prompting them to introduce innovative products aimed at tech-savvy customers. So, what does the term FinTech encompass? It refers to Financial Technology, which pertains to online or technology-oriented businesses that deliver financial services. Much like how companies such as Airbnb and Uber have transformed their respective industries, FinTech simplifies various aspects of managing your finances. In Canada, the primary segments of FinTech include banking, lending, and portfolio management, but there are also new applications designed...
Rogers Red World Elite Mastercard Overview

Rogers Red World Elite Mastercard Overview

CREDIT CARDS
The Rogers Red World Elite Mastercard (previously the Rogers World Elite Mastercard) is frequently underestimated but stands out as one of Canada’s top cash back credit cards. This card comes with no annual fee and offers an impressive cash back rate of up to 3%. Additionally, cardholders receive five complimentary Roam Like Home days each year. In essence, it’s one of the top no-fee cash back credit options available. However, to maximize the benefits, applicants must be customers of Rogers, Fido, or Shaw. Check out my review of the Rogers Red World Elite Mastercard for more details. Rogers Red World Elite Mastercard No annual fee Receive $60 cash back with a mobile wallet purchase in the firs...
RRSP Withdrawal Guidelines: Essential Information

RRSP Withdrawal Guidelines: Essential Information

INVESTING
If you're planning for retirement, it's likely you're utilizing a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP). While this is an effective way to save, you'll eventually need to access your funds. Understanding the RRSP withdrawal rules is crucial, as tax implications vary based on when and how you make withdrawals. What is an RRSP? In brief, an RRSP is a registered account designed for retirement savings in Canada. Each dollar you contribute to your RRSP reduces your taxable income by the same amount. Once the funds are deposited, you can invest in various products, including mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, stocks, bonds, and guaranteed investment certificates. Any interest or capital gains generated within the account are tax-free. Yet, upon withdrawal, these funds will be taxed at...
Understanding Disability Insurance in Canada

Understanding Disability Insurance in Canada

PERSONAL FINANCE
Have you ever considered how you would earn money if you were unable to work due to an illness or accident? While having an emergency fund may provide temporary relief, the real solution lies in obtaining a disability insurance policy. Many employees mistakenly believe that their employer or the government will cover disability benefits. However, this assumption can be misleading since not all employers offer disability insurance, and existing policies may not provide sufficient coverage. Understanding Disability Insurance Disability insurance is designed to provide you and your loved ones with an income if you suddenly find yourself unable to work due to an illness or injury. This may include situations where you need to take a significant amount of time off for medical treatment or re...
Renewing Your Mortgage: Save by Shopping Around

Renewing Your Mortgage: Save by Shopping Around

INVESTING
As a homeowner, understanding the mortgage renewal process is crucial since you will likely engage in this practice multiple times over the life of your mortgage. Much like your initial mortgage, there are various options accessible during the renewal period that can aid in saving you money. Typically, securing approval during your renewal phase is almost a given, as lenders do not require you to requalify. However, it’s wise to refrain from hastily accepting the terms of your new mortgage, as you may discover superior alternatives. View the mortgage renewal phase as an opportunity to evaluate different mortgage types, explore additional payment options, and find the most favorable interest rates available. What is Mortgage Renewal? When you initially take out a mortgage, you enter int...
A Guide to Selecting the Best Travel Credit Card in Canada

A Guide to Selecting the Best Travel Credit Card in Canada

CREDIT CARDS
Selecting the ideal travel credit card in Canada can significantly enhance your journeys. By doing so, not only can you save money, but you'll also unlock a plethora of valuable benefits. With numerous options on the market, it's vital to assess your travel patterns and preferences to determine a card that fits your specific needs and goals. The main focus should be on finding a card that offers rewarding incentives, versatile redemption avenues, and key travel perks such as insurance coverage and the absence of foreign transaction fees. It’s important to note that you might not find a single card that fulfills all your objectives, indicating that applying for more than one might be necessary. Seek cards that align with your spending habits or those that offer enticing extras like airpor...
Understanding High

Understanding High

INVESTING
Are you familiar with the concept of a high-ratio mortgage? In Canada, purchasing a home can be a significant financial commitment, particularly in high-demand markets like Toronto and Vancouver. For first-time buyers, accumulating enough savings for a down payment can be a lengthy process. Fortunately, Canadians don’t have to save the full 20% typically required for a down payment. In fact, securing a mortgage can be achieved with a down payment as low as 5%. Nonetheless, opting for less than 20% necessitates what's known as a high-ratio mortgage. What is the minimum down payment for a mortgage? The down payment refers to the initial cash amount you provide when purchasing a home, which acts as a securing factor for the transaction. Former homeowners may utilize proceeds from their prev...
Benefits of Costco Membership in Canada

Benefits of Costco Membership in Canada

PERSONAL FINANCE
The advantages of a Costco membership in Canada can sometimes be overlooked. Many individuals presume that Costco functions solely as a retailer of groceries and bulk goods. While it does specialize in bulk sales, its offerings go well beyond food items, encompassing housewares, pharmaceuticals, cleaning products, and much more. The concept of paying an annual fee for a store membership might seem unreasonable to some; however, understanding the benefits provided by Costco membership in Canada can quickly change your perspective and make you consider joining. What is Costco? Costco operates as a warehouse club exclusive to members, providing a wide array of products including groceries, apparel, household goods, electronics, gift cards, and travel packages. Alongside its private label (...
Setting Up an Automatic Savings Program with Tangerine

Setting Up an Automatic Savings Program with Tangerine

BANKING
A key strategy for effective money management is to automate your savings. This entails arranging for automatic transfers to ensure that saving becomes your foremost financial priority. While this concept may appear straightforward, many people are unaware of how to establish these automatic transfers. After attending a presentation by Rob Carrick at the recent Canadian Personal Finance Conference, I felt compelled to create a straightforward guide for setting up automatic payments through Tangerine’s Automatic Savings Program. You will need to have a Tangerine account (here’s my referral link), but the process is largely similar regardless of your bank. Initiating Your Automatic Savings Program with Tangerine Upon logging into your Tangerine account, you will be greeted with an overvie...
Marriott Bonvoy Amex Canada Review: 55,000 Points Welcome Offer

Marriott Bonvoy Amex Canada Review: 55,000 Points Welcome Offer

CREDIT CARDS
Searching for a Marriott Bonvoy Amex review? Look no further. The Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card is a must-have for every traveler. With a generous earning rate, a complimentary annual night certificate valued at up to 35,000 points, and Gold Elite Status with Marriott Bonvoy, it’s clear why I consider it one of the top travel rewards cards in Canada. For further insights, keep reading my comprehensive Marriott Bonvoy Amex Canada evaluation. Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card $120 annual fee Earn 55,000 Marriott Bonvoy points after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months (must use a referral link) Receive 5 Marriott Bonvoy points for every $1 spent at participating Marrio...
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