Stress Test

Shannon Lee Simmons, Certified Financial Planner and founder of the New School of Finance, shares practical money wisdom. Conversation covers how giving up on buying a home can loosen budgets and spur bigger investment risks. She explains why easy trading and influencer hype push riskier bets. Practical tips on small consistent savings, using TFSA/RRSP shelters, and a diversified core-plus-risk portfolio are discussed.

Sean Hildebrand, president of Urbanation and housing analyst, breaks down Canada’s rental shifts. He explains why rents have fallen after a surge, how condo completions and investor listings flooded supply, and which cities and unit types saw the biggest changes. He also outlines common landlord incentives, why asking rents may not drop, and what could push rents up again.

Aaron Hector, a wealth advisor at TIER Wealth in Calgary, explains market risks and practical portfolio steps. He talks about why recent gains may be abnormal and what could trigger a downturn. He discusses diversification, the role of bonds, where to keep near-term savings, tech valuation risks, and how young investors can prepare without timing the market.

There's so much financial uncertainty out there right now. Stocks have soared, but global conflicts are casting a shadow. House prices are falling. The labour market is shifting. Even the things that are supposed to be getting easier, like renting, don’t quite feel that way. Welcome back for another season of Stress Test, The Globe and Mail’s personal finance podcast for millennials and Gen Z. This season, we’ll look at how to prepare for the inevitable stock market downturn, how AI is disrupting the job market, and how accessible apps and low fees have made this a golden age for DIY investors.  Season 12 of Stress Test launches on March 11th.     Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Zahra Khozema, a freelance journalist who embraces travel as a lifestyle, shares her tips on budgeting for trips and using creative means like multiple layovers to save money. Travel photographer Mandy Sham discusses her favorite affordable destinations, highlighting trends among younger Canadians. She emphasizes cost-saving strategies like group camping and choosing less-touristed spots for unique experiences. Both guests reveal how mindful planning can lead to enriching travels without breaking the bank.

Shannon Lee Simmons, a certified financial planner and author, highlights the normalization of sports betting among youth and how it influences their investing habits. Behavioral researchers Perry Wright and Hans Frech explore the parallels between gambling and speculative investing, dissecting the factors like excitement and social comparisons that drive risky behaviors. They discuss app design elements that encourage frequent trading and suggest guardrails like pre-set limits to protect users' finances. This fascinating conversation sheds light on the blurred lines between gambling and investing.

Nicole Biros-Bolton, a human rights and employment lawyer at Bird Bold Law, shares essential insights for those facing job loss. She discusses the stark difference between layoffs and terminations, the importance of not hastily signing severance agreements, and common pitfalls to avoid after being fired. Nicole explains how severance calculations work, advising listeners to scrutinize their offers and consider legal consultation. With expert tips on applying for Employment Insurance, her advice is a must-listen for anyone finding themselves unexpectedly unemployed.

Victor Tran, a Toronto-based licensed mortgage agent, shares insights on navigating today's challenging mortgage landscape. With rising interest rates, he discusses strategies for renewing mortgages and the importance of comparing lenders to avoid shocking payment increases. He emphasizes the trend of first-time buyers opting for fixed rates to maintain budget stability. Additionally, Tran advises homeowners to start shopping well ahead of their renewal dates and warns against the pitfalls of procrastination in this crucial financial decision.

In this insightful discussion, Matt Lundy, Economics editor at The Globe and Mail, delves into the harsh realities of the job market for young Canadians, revealing youth unemployment nearing 15%. He highlights how economic uncertainty and rising AI influence hiring practices, pushing applicants to send dozens of resumes with minimal replies. Lundy warns of the long-term scarring effects of graduating in economic downturns, while offering practical advice on patience and skill-building to enhance job prospects.

Blake Corey, a certified financial planner and president of Venn Wealth Partners, explores the intriguing world of 'boring businesses.' He discusses why young entrepreneurs are drawn to essential services like laundromats and vending machines, emphasizing the flexibility and lifestyle control they offer. Blake shares insights on financing challenges in Canada, potential pitfalls for new buyers, and the importance of understanding hidden costs. He also highlights the appeal and resilience of these businesses and warns about local risks that could impact revenues.