Penni Johnston Wealth Advisory

If every part of your portfolio depends on the same market, are you truly diversified?

As investors navigate market uncertainty, alternative assets such as art and collectibles are gaining attention for their potential diversification benefits. Unlike traditional investments, their value is often influenced by rarity, historical significance, and collector demand rather than earnings reports or interest rate movements.

While not risk-free, these assets may behave differently than public markets, offering an additional layer of diversification over the long term. The conversation is not about chasing performance. It is about reducing dependence on a single source of value creation and building a more resilient portfolio.

Learn more about the evolving role of collectibles in modern portfolio construction: https://bit.ly/3SHtwyP

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Follow this series every Tuesday for more insights on wealth coordination.

When was the last time your Will had a check-up?

Many Canadians create a Will and assume the job is done. In reality, a Will should evolve as your life changes. Events such as a marriage, the birth of a child, significant changes in assets, or even a move to another province can affect whether your estate plan still reflects your wishes.

A regularly reviewed Will helps ensure the right people are cared for, the right individuals are making decisions on your behalf, and your broader estate plan remains aligned with your goals.

If you haven't reviewed your Will in the past five years, now may be the perfect time to revisit it with a qualified legal professional.

Learn more about overlooked estate planning mistakes: https://bit.ly/4wTiXHP
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Follow this series every Thursday for more insights on wealth coordination.

What if true diversification means looking beyond traditional markets?

In a world shaped by market volatility, concentration risk, and evolving investor priorities, many investors are rethinking how portfolios are built. Art, collectibles, and other tangible assets are gaining renewed attention, not as replacements for stocks and bonds, but as complementary assets that may offer diversification benefits, non-correlated return potential, and a meaningful connection to personal values and legacy.

As wealth becomes more complex, portfolio construction is becoming more intentional. The conversation is no longer just about returns, but about resilience, preservation, and long-term purpose.

Learn more about the evolving role of collectibles in modern portfolio construction: https://bit.ly/3SHtwyP

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Follow this series every Tuesday for more insights on wealth coordination.

Tuition isn't the only back-to-school expense parents need to plan for.

As your child heads to college, university, or another eligible post-secondary program, now is a great time to review your RESP. While many families focus on building education savings over the years, it's just as important to understand how those funds can be withdrawn when they're needed most.

Before requesting funds, make sure you:
- Confirm the school and program are eligible
- Have current proof of enrolment ready
- Estimate upcoming expenses such as tuition, books, tools, transportation, and housing
- Check whether your RESP promoter requires receipts or additional documentation
- Understand the withdrawal options

Here are three common RESP withdrawal types:
- Return of Contributions (ROC): These are your original contributions. They can be withdrawn tax-free and returned to the subscriber (parent or grandparent).

- Educational Assistance Payments (EAPs): These consist of government grants and investment growth. They are taxable to the student, who often pays little or no tax due to their lower income.

- Post-Secondary Education (PSE) Withdrawals: Once the student is enrolled in a qualifying program, contributions can be withdrawn to help cover education costs without triggering tax.

Taking a few minutes to review your RESP withdrawal strategy before classes begin can help ensure funds are available when needed and make the transition to post-secondary education smoother.

Once you give a financial gift, how much control do you really keep?

Could your gift create tax consequences in another country? And once the money is transferred, can you still influence how it is used?

Gifting wealth often involves more complexity than simply choosing an amount. Cross-border assets, family circumstances, trusts, and the way a gift is structured can all shape the outcome.

Before passing wealth to the next generation, it is worth understanding the options available and how thoughtful planning may help protect your intentions.

Our article explores key considerations to help you make informed decisions about transferring wealth with confidence. Read the full article here: https://bit.ly/3UdqbYH

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Follow this series every Tuesday for more insights on wealth coordination.