The Empowered Investor

In this episode, Marcelo Taboada sits down with Nicolas Bérubé to discuss his latest book L’art de multiplier son argent : 17 leçons pour réussir en bourse (The Art of Multiplying Your Money: 17 Lessons for Success in the Stock Market). Together, they break down the key lessons every investor should understand to build long-term success in the stock market.

Nicolas brings deep expertise in wealth management and financial planning, with a strong focus on helping families make thoughtful, long-term decisions. He is also the author of three books and a regular personal finance columnist for La Pre...

In this episode, Keith Matthews and Jackson Matthews take a step back to help investors make sense of market volatility during periods of geopolitical tension, focusing on the current situation in the Middle East. They walk through what has been happening in the markets so far in 2026, starting with a strong beginning to the year followed by a noticeable pullback as uncertainty increased.

They explain how disruptions in oil supply are influencing inflation expectations and why this matters for interest rates, stock valuations, and the broader economy. By putting today’s events into historical context, they show th...

In this episode of The Empowered Investor Podcast, Keith Matthews and Andrea LeRoyer break down how to approach tax season with clarity and structure. From key deadlines to recent tax changes, they walk through what actually matters when preparing your return.

The discussion goes beyond basic compliance, highlighting how organization, awareness of credits, and proactive planning can materially impact your after-tax outcomes. They also cover practical frameworks, including what documents you’ll receive, what you need to track down, and how different life situations, from students to retirees, affect your tax strategy.

This episode offers a...

What’s behind the recent surge in gold prices and should you reconsider gold as part of your investment portfolio? Is gold truly a safe haven, or is it riskier than most people think? How does gold stack up against stocks, bonds, and real estate over the long term? These are the questions we answer in today’s episode.

Hosts Keith Matthews and Marcelo Taboada break down gold’s true performance, risk profile, and role within a diversified portfolio. They compare gold to stocks, bonds, and real estate, drawing on decades of data to examine returns, volatility, and lo...

Entrepreneurship through Acquisition: Buying and Selling Canadian Small Businesses

In episode, Keith Matthews welcomes Marc Deegan, founder of R33 Ventures and an expert in business valuations and M&A for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Together, they explore the rapidly growing model of entrepreneurship through acquisition, cover current trends in the Canadian SME marketplace, common challenges, and best practices.

Expert Marc Deegan offers a clear, actionable conversation on the realities of buying and selling SMEs in Canada. Learn how to define the right buyer profile, discover what truly drives business valuations, and get the inside...

Key Financial Trends of 2025

In this episode, Keith Matthews and Lawrence Greenberg reflect on an extraordinary investment year and what it means for disciplined investors heading into 2026. They break down how tariff-driven volatility, sharp drawdowns, and rapid recoveries defined 2025, yet ultimately rewarded those who stayed invested and globally diversified.

The conversation explores how Canada and international markets outperformed the U.S., how powerful market rotation reshaped returns, and why chasing forecasts or headlines would have been costly. Keith and Lawrence also address the growing debate around artificial intelligence, offering perspective drawn from past market cycles...

Why Human Capital Is Your Most Important Investment:

In this episode, host Keith Matthews is joined by Mark Halloran, Co-Founder of Career Lion and expert in professional development, to explore how effective career management is key to optimizing your financial journey.

Special guest Mark Halloran breaks down a proven five-part framework for career management that applies to every stage, from early beginnings to executive leadership. This framework highlights the importance of continuous learning, tendering your career, managing up to accelerate growth, building a powerful network, and practicing gratitude to boost workplace fulfillment.

This...

What happens if your financial advisor retires? Can you be confident your investments and retirement plan will stay on track? Why do so few advisors plan ahead? What should you be asking now to avoid costly surprises later? These are the questions we answer in today’s episode.

Hosts Keith Matthews and Lawrence Greenberg dive into a crucial but often overlooked challenge for Canadian investors: advisor succession planning. You’ll get a clear breakdown of why so few advisors have a transition plan in place, what happens when they don’t, and how to protect yourself from servic...

How much money do you really need for retirement? Is your current plan actually aligned with your future spending habits, or are you at risk of falling short? When should you start planning and what are the biggest financial mistakes people make before and after they stop working? These are the questions we answer in today’s episode.

Hosts Keith Matthews and Lawrence Greenberg break down the three distinct phases of retirement spending: the “Go-Go” years, the “Slow-Go” years, and the “No-Go” years. You’ll learn how spending patterns evolve, why most people underestimate costs, and how to avoid common...

Join host Keith Matthews and co-host Marcelo Taboada as they take a fascinating deep dive into the origins and rise of index funds, inspired by the documentary “Tune out the Noise.” In this episode Keith and Marcelo explore how index and passive investing has evolved from a radical idea in the 1960s to today’s gold standard for simplified, cost-effective, and evidence-based portfolio management.

Go behind the scenes of “Tune Out the Noise” as they break down how the index fund revolution began in academia, overcame huge resistance from Wall Street, and ultimately changed the way everyday investors...

What global trends are reshaping the way Canadians invest and plan for their financial future? How can you avoid paying unnecessary fees and take advantage of smarter ways to grow your wealth? What changes are coming in investor protection, and how will they impact your bottom line? These are the questions we answer in today’s episode.

Join Keith Matthews and co-host Marcelo Taboada as they break down the four major global trends transforming wealth management: the rise of index funds, the shift toward independent financial firms, the growing importance of retirement planning, and enhanced investor protection an...

What does a “comfortable” retirement look like today, and how much do you actually need to fund it? Are you underestimating your spending levels, or overestimating what you can count on from savings & government pensions? Why are so many Canadians feeling less optimistic about retirement than they did 20 years ago? These are the questions we answer in today’s episode.

Hosts Keith Matthews and Marcelo Taboada break down new data from Fidelity’s 2025 Retirement Report to show how retirement expectations, lifestyle costs, and income needs have shifted in the last 20 years. You’ll hear a clear, actionable framework...

Mid-Year Review 2025: Markets Weather Geopolitical Storms: In this episode, Keith Matthews and Marcelo Taboada dive into the first half of 2025, unpacking a period marked by global political turbulence, trade wars, and significant market volatility. They review how markets responded to headline-grabbing events like the U.S. and Canadian elections, dramatic tariff announcements, and ongoing geopolitical conflicts, reminding listeners that, despite the noise, portfolios have shown remarkable resilience.

As always, their advice is to stay disciplined, diversified, and focused on long-term plans, not the headlines.

Key Topics:

● 2025’s biggest events: U.S. and Canadian elec...

Host Keith Matthews welcomes David Andrew, founder of Capital Partners in Australia, for a discussion on global trends in independent advice and wealth management. Capital Partners is a leading edge independent Australian wealth management firm under David’s stewardship, Capital Partners was named Best Professional Practice in Australia by the Financial Advice Association of Australia in 2017, 2019 and 2024; the only firm to have received this award more than once.

Together, David and Keith break down what Australian, Canadian and global investors have in common, the real-world dangers of conflicted advice, actionable ways to foster trust and transparency, and ho...

What exactly is an RESP and how can it be used to fund your child’s post-secondary education? What are the key rules around contributions, grants, and withdrawals? What should you do if your child doesn’t pursue higher education?

In today’s episode, Laurence Greenberg and Jackson Matthews break down everything Canadian parents need to know about RESPs — from contribution limits and government grants, to withdrawal strategies and tax-efficient planning. Whether you’re opening your first account or optimizing an existing one, this episode offers clear answers and practical guidance.

Don’t miss this essential ov...

What role do expectations and consumer culture play in shaping our financial well-being? How can we make smarter, long-term decisions that align with a meaningful life rather than short-term gratification? What lessons can we draw from those who’ve found financial independence through simplicity and intentionality? These are just a few of the powerful questions explored in today’s episode.

Marcelo Taboada sits down with acclaimed La Presse journalist Nicolas Bérubé to explore the deeper intersection between money, happiness, and our daily decisions. They examine popular topics from Nicolas’ widely read weekly financial columns, challenging us to think...

What sparked the most dramatic stock market volatility in recent memory? Why did tariffs suddenly become the centerpiece of U.S. economic policy? How should investors respond when uncertainty hits at lightning speed? We explore all of this—and more—in today’s deep dive on market turmoil triggered by Trump’s sweeping tariff announcements.

Keith Matthews and Marcelo Taboada break down the global shockwave of “Liberation Day,” explain how markets and investors reacted, and offer critical lessons on staying invested when storms hit. From VIX surges to record—setting daily returns, they connect the dots between policy, volati...

Are you ready for tax season? Do you know the key deadlines and the essential documents you need to file your 2024 tax return? Have you explored all the deductions and tax relief options available to you?

In this episode, Keith Matthews and Andrea LeRoyer guide you through a structured approach to preparing your taxes efficiently. From crucial deadlines to tax-saving opportunities, they cover everything you need to stay compliant and optimize your return. They also discuss major changes for the 2024 tax season, including updates on the capital gains inclusion rate, home flipping rules, and the latest home...

Have you ever wondered if moving your portfolio allocations around can lead to better returns? To help answer this question, one just needs to look at how tactical asset allocation (TAA) funds have performed over time. Have these TAA funds really helped investors navigate market uncertainty?

In today’s episode, Keith and Marcelo break down a compelling new study from Morningstar that examines the long-term performance of tactical asset allocation funds. With a data-driven approach, they discuss how these funds performed over different market cycles, what role predictions play in their effectiveness, and how investors should think ab...

What role does psychology play in financial decision-making? How can behavioral biases influence your investment success? And what does it truly mean to find purpose and meaning in wealth?

Marcelo Taboada welcomes Daniel Crosby, a renowned behavioral finance expert and author. Together, they explore the psychology of investing, how money and happiness intersect, and the core principles behind his latest book, The Soul of Wealth. Join us as we uncover how your mindset impacts financial success, the biggest behavioral biases to avoid, and the philosophical shift needed to make wealth truly meaningful.

Thank you for...

What happens when unexpected tariffs are imposed on a country? How do they impact businesses, consumers, and the economy at large? And most importantly, what should investors do to navigate uncertainty during times of trade tensions?

In this episode, Keith and Marcelo break down the political and economic fallout, exploring the history of tariffs, their impact on trade, and potential consequences for both the Canadian and the U.S. economy. They discuss market reactions, investor strategies, and why this trade dispute could reshape Canada’s economic future, with possible silver linings amidst the economic turbulence.

If...

In this episode, Lawrence Greenberg and Jackson Matthews provide a comprehensive guide to the various types of investment accounts available to Canadians. From foundational accounts like TFSAs and RRSPs to specialized options like RESPs and RDSPs, the hosts outline how each account works, who they are best suited for, and common misconceptions. Whether you're saving for retirement, education, or your first home, this episode offers practical insights to maximize your financial strategy in 2025.

Thank you for tuning in!

Key Topics:

What were the key financial trends that shaped 2024? How did the markets perform across various asset classes? And what can investors learn from a decade of market data to position themselves for the future?

In this episode, Keith Matthews and Marcelo Taboada provide a comprehensive breakdown of 2024, from asset class returns to geopolitical and economic factors that impacted the markets. Marcelo shares personal milestones from the year, while Keith discusses lessons learned from market trends and the importance of diversification amidst narratives of "U.S. exceptionalism."

They also address what the performance of the last...

Have you ever wondered how to break into the challenging housing market as a first-time homebuyer? What strategies can help you secure your first property when affordability seems out of reach? How can creative financing and renovation techniques transform your homeownership experience?

In today’s episode, Keith Matthews and real estate expert Sean Broady from the Broady Windsor Group share insights on navigating today’s real estate landscape. From practical home-buying tips to financing strategies, Sean offers an optimistic perspective on how anyone can enter the market with the right approach.

Join us as we expl...

Have you ever wondered if investing in emerging trends, like AI or green energy, could give you an edge? Are thematic investments a smart choice for long-term success? What are the potential pitfalls, and how can investors avoid them? In this episode, we explore these questions and more.

Keith Matthews and Marcelo Taboada examine the appeal of thematic investing, looking at why it draws investors in and why it may often fall short. They discuss findings from a recent Morningstar report that highlights the returns—and missed returns—associated with thematic strategies, shedding light on how timing and...

Do presidential elections determine the stock market's performance? Is there a difference in returns between Republican and Democrat administrations? In today’s episode, Marcelo Taboada and Jackson Matthews break down the data from past elections and examine the long-term impact—or lack thereof—of political events on the stock market. How does human ingenuity shape market outcomes, and what lessons can investors learn from history?

Join Marcelo and Jackson as they dive into key historical periods, such as the Great Depression, World War II, and the COVID-19 pandemic, to explore how markets react in times of crisis and gr...

Are you or a loved one facing the challenges of long-term financial planning with a disability? Wondering how to secure a stable future while navigating government benefits? The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) could be the answer you’re looking for.

Hosts Lawrence Greenberg and Jackson Matthews break down the complexities of the RDSP, explaining how it offers significant government support through income-based grants and bonds, making it a powerful savings tool to help Canadians with disabilities secure their financial future.

With tax-deferred growth, matching grants, the ability for multiple family members to contribute and bo...

Have you ever wondered how the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) can assist Canadians with disabilities and their families? What are the challenges involved in applying for this underutilized credit? How can one effectively navigate the application process to maximize benefits? These and more questions will be explored in today’s episode.

Host Lawrence Greenberg sits down with Christine Brunsden, CEO of Benefits2, to discuss the Disability Tax Credit—a powerful yet often overlooked resource for Canadians. Christine delves into the intricacies of the DTC, clarifying eligibility requirements, debunking common misconceptions, and revealing the broader benefits it can unlo...

How should investors react to recent market volatility? What are the lessons from Intel's rise and fall that modern investors can learn from? Is diversification really the key to long-term success?

In this episode, Keith and Lawrence dive into the recent bouts of market volatility and share their thoughts on how you can maintain your composure during these turbulent times. They also delve into the cautionary tale of Intel, once a stock market darling of the late 90's, to emphasize the risks of over-concentrated investments in seemingly "can't miss" stocks.

Whether you're concerned about recent...

Mid-year review - inflation down, stocks and bonds up: In this episode Keith and Lawrence delve into the 2024 mid-year review, providing a comprehensive overview of year-to-date asset class returns.

They elaborate on the strong performance of various asset classes, particularly emphasizing how technology stocks like NVIDIA have propelled the S&P 500's gains. But they remind us of the importance of not chasing returns, and of the importance of maintaining a globally diversified portfolio for long-term performance and for risk management.

As they look ahead to the upcoming fall US elections, they advise us that...

Are you thinking about selling your business but unsure where to start? Wondering how to maximize its value and attract the right buyers? How can you structure your finances to maximize the value of your business?

Tune in as host Keith Matthews and guest Uros Milekic, partner at BDO Canada, explore the critical strategies for enhancing business operations, ensuring accurate financial reporting, and structuring for optimal tax efficiency. Uros also explains the key factors that potential buyers look for and how to position your business to meet those criteria.

Whether you're looking to sell in...

How can entrepreneurs effectively plan and accumulate wealth? What role do holding companies and the capital dividend account play?

Join host Marcelo Taboada and Uros Milekic from BDO Canada as they dive into key financial strategies for entrepreneurs. Learn how to optimize tax savings, protect assets, and set up holding companies for legal and tax benefits.

Discover the pros and cons of taking a salary versus dividends, managing cash flow, and planning for retirement. Uros explains the Capital Dividend Account (CDA) and Refundable Dividend Tax on Hand (RDTOH) for tax-efficient fund distribution, and highlights Individual...

As parents, we all want to set our kids up for financial success. But how do you teach them about money in a way that sticks? In our latest episode, Marcelo speaks with Robin Taub, CPA and author of "The Wisest Investment," to get her expert advice on instilling money smarts from an early age.

Robin Taub is the bestselling author of The Wisest Investment. The Canadian edition of this book was awarded the Best Adult Book of 2022 by the Institute for Financial Literacy.

Join us as we discuss the practical tips and exercises Robin...

Join us as we celebrate 100 years of mutual fund history, reflecting on how they've helped shape investor access to the markets.

Keith and Marcelo discuss the journey of mutual funds (MF) from a niche product created in 1924 to a mainstay in the investment world, examining both the benefits and challenges they present for today's investors.

They highlight mutual funds' ability to provide diversified exposure to various markets, easy access to foreign investments, and convenience in buying and selling shares.

They also tackle the downsides of mutual funds head-on: high fees, lack of transparency...

Are you wondering how the proposed 2024 Federal Budget changes might affect your investments? Curious about the implications of the increased capital gains inclusion rates? Want to know the key considerations for financial planning in light of these changes? Today's episode dives deep into these questions and more.

Today, Keith is joined by Gerry Theus, a seasoned tax expert, to explore the nuances of the proposed capital gains inclusion rate increases. They will discuss the transition from the old rate to the new, highlight the direct impacts on various investment structures, and unravel strategies to optimize financial outcomes...

Wondering how you can simplify your investment strategy without sacrificing returns? How does a straightforward approach to investing lead to financial security? Discover the answers in this episode as we discuss the principles of index investing and the power of keeping it simple.

Keith Matthews is joined by Nicolas Bérubé, an award-winning financial journalist and author (of From Zero to Millionaire), to explore the benefits of a stress-free investment strategy. Nicolas shares his journey from being a curious reporter during the financial crisis to becoming a proponent of index investing, highlighting the importance of understanding market beha...

Have you ever wondered what happens to your tax obligations when you leave Canada to become a non-resident? What about the complexities of owning property in Canada while living abroad? Are you aware of the intricate tax implications involved in these scenarios?

In today’s episode, Marcelo Taboada speaks with Julie Cote from Chaise Bleu. With her extensive experience in taxation and specializing in non-resident Canadians owning property in Canada, Julie sheds light on the often misunderstood and overlooked aspects of taxation for non-residents. This episode is a deep dive into non-residency status, property ownership, and the cr...

Can you quantify the value of financial advice? How does an advisor enhance your investment returns? What role does behavioral coaching play in your financial success? Dive into these compelling questions in our latest episode of The Empowered Investor. Join us as we explore the intricate relationship between financial advice and investment success, featuring the insightful expertise of Emile Bouchard from Vanguard.

In this episode, we delve deep into Vanguard's groundbreaking research on the value of financial advice. Emile Bouchard, a seasoned professional in the financial services industry, shares his insights on how Vanguard's approach to evidence-based...

How did the key financial events of 2023 shape the investment landscape? What lessons can investors take from these developments as we move into 2024? Join us in this episode as we delve into these questions and more.

Keith Matthews and Lawrence Greenberg offer a comprehensive analysis of 2023, highlighting the performance of different asset classes, the role of major tech firms, and the impact of inflation and central bank policies. They discuss strategies for navigating the markets and how to avoid common investment mistakes, providing valuable insights for investors

Thanks for joining us on this journey through...

Are we learning from history or repeating the same patterns in different contexts? How does understanding human behavior enhance our investment strategies? Can the past unlock secrets for future financial success? In this episode, hosts Marcelo Taboada and Jackson Matthews engage in an insightful book review of Morgan Housel's latest work, 'Same as Ever.' This episode not only delves into the book's key themes but also connects these ideas to practical investment strategies and financial planning.

Morgan Housel, in 'Same as Ever,' explores the repetitive nature of human behavior through various historical lenses, emphasizing that...