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The importance of Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs)
A Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) is a Canadian government program with the primary and end purpose of helping Canadians save for their retirement. It has significant tax advantages with the key ones being; contributions are deductible from your taxable...
Understanding the registered disability savings plan (RDSP)
In this Finance Friday segment, FirstOntario Chief Risk Officer Mark Perkins answers a viewer’s question about the Registered Disability Savings Plan. Mark provides an overview of how the RDSP works, who qualifies, the advantages of government grants and bonds, and...
Markets at the intersection of rates, AI and geopolitical risk
Markets opened the year with a cautious tone as shifting interest-rate expectations drove performance across asset classes. Equity returns were mixed, with volatility increasing as higher bond yields weighed on growth stocks, while value-oriented and cyclical sectors...
What 2026 means for small businesses
FirstOntario Senior Manager of Business Services, Colin Cyr, discusses what small businesses can expect in 2026 in our latest Finance Friday segment. Colin reviews insights from the latest Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) report, including muted consumer...
RRSP, TFSA & FHSA contribution tips for 2026
In this Finance Friday segment, FirstOntario’s Chief Risk Officer Mark Perkins explains key contribution limits for RRSPs, TFSAs, and FHSAs, and why it is important to avoid over-contribution penalties. Learn practical strategies for maximizing your savings, whether...
Income splitting strategies explained
In this Wealth Wednesday segment, FirstOntario Investment Specialist Yvonne Delry and Senior Wealth Advisor Andrew Ostasz break down income splitting strategies and how they can help reduce taxes and boost your after-tax income. Learn practical approaches for both...
Why shopping local matters this holiday season
Join FirstOntario’s Senior Manager of Business Services, Colin Cyr, as we explore the benefits of shopping local during the holiday season. From supporting small businesses to strengthening our communities, your dollar makes a big difference. In this segment, we...
Holiday season budgeting
As we approach the end of the year, many people start to anticipate the holiday season. This can be a joyous time of the year, but it can also be filled with additional expenses. Creating a plan and budget can help with navigating the through holiday season. Creating...
Holiday budget tips to stay on track
The holiday season can be joyful, but it often brings extra financial stress. In this Wealth Wednesday segment, Yvonne Delry, Investment Specialist with FirstOntario Credit Union and Aviso Wealth, shares practical tips to help you create a holiday budget and avoid...
Understanding credit reports and consumer statements
In this Finance Friday segment, FirstOntario’s Chief Risk Officer Mark Perkins answers viewer questions about credit reports and why they matter. Learn what a credit bureau is, how your credit score impacts access to credit, and what steps to take if you find errors...
Building your business support team: The three key financial roles
In this Finance Friday segment, Colin Cyr, Senior Manager of Business Services at FirstOntario, outlines the essential financial professionals every business owner should have in their corner. Learn about the roles of the financial protector, communicator, and enabler...