deGraaf Financial Strategies

“CARP has raised concerns with Canada’s major banks about the way investment advice is provided to seniors. . . . bank branch advisors are often focused on meeting sales targets tied to internal products. Their function within the big banks is to sell … with no mandate to prioritize the best outcomes for their clients.”

CARP takes Banks to the Competition Bureau - CARP CARP Takes Action Against Banks’ Lack of Choice and Sales Culture with in-branch Investment Advice: Escalating to the Competition Bureau Member Update: CARP met with representatives from the Competition Bureau, March 5th, 2026. Over the past few months, CARP has raised concerns with Canada’s maj...

A poppy in honour of my Opa - who played a role in liberating Holland and ending WWII in 1945. I hope the sacrifice of so many will always be remembered, and never repeated 🙏

Consumer Alert! ⚠️ If this concerns you, contact us for solutions 📞

Daughter hit with $660,000 tax bill when both parents died in same year An Ontario woman says she had to use nearly all of her parents’ retirement savings to pay off a more than $660,000 tax bill after they both died within the same year.

I was pleased to provide my insights on this topic . . .

How Seniors Can Avoid Power of Attorney Abuse Power of attorney abuse can be dangerous and traumatizing. With these tips, seniors can stay safe and avoid elder financial abuse and power of attorney abuse. (Updated Jan. 2025)

Feeling a little nervous today? Here are some charts and stats on how the markets have performed during and after previous US elections . . . very interesting! 📈📊🤔

U.S. election insights This is the default page description

I was happy to contribute to the recent Globe & Mail article on The Gender Pension Gap. Click the link in the comments to read it! Contact us today if you could use some help getting retirement ready 🌸 [email protected] 🌸

I was pleased to be interviewed on this topic …calling all single Moms! If you need some help planning for your retirement, give us a call ☎️

Single moms face huge challenges saving for retirement Strategic planning, advice required to ensure sole earners can get ahead

Does your Estate Plan include Segregated Funds? Let's talk about the benefits of naming a Beneficiary on your Open or Non-Registered investment accounts today 🤔📞📱📧

What is a segregated fund? — Solutions for Financial Planning | Magazine A unique insurance-based investment that offers helpful estate-planning features.

Some good points to consider! 🏠

Downsizing your home in retirement: Ideas and considerations Downsizing to smaller home may seem like a natural progression as you near retirement age. But consider these factors before you make the big move.

❗️In just the past month I have personally witnessed ALL of the bank's high pressure sales tactics exercised on existing and new clients - Unnecessary Products - Misleading Info - Unauthorized account activity - Fear tactics - Persistent follow ups. ⚠️THIS is why you need to work with an Independent Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and not just any 'advisor' at the bank. ⚠️ The banks are beholden to their shareholders, NOT their customers - remember that! ❗️

Are financial advisors just glorified salespeople? Financial advisors can be an excellent resource for busy consumers, but recent allegations against employees of major Canadian banks have raised questions about the integrity of financial advice. Personal finance contributor Christopher Liew addresses some of these concerns and highlights the distin...

Nearing retirement and need some help? Let's talk about some ways to catch up on your savings!

Half of Canadians have nothing saved for retirement Women less prepared financially than men, finds survey

🤔 Interesting, since hind-sight is always 20/20! 👀 This chart definitely makes the case for portfolio diversification and why you need exposure at home, as well as abroad (except China!)
🤔 Have questions? Let's talk about them! 📞Contact us today at [email protected]

The Growth of a $1,000 Equity Investment, by Stock Market In this graphic, we've visualized stock market growth by country over the past five years using major indices.