Barenaked Money

Reflections on Market Bottoms: Lessons from the Pandemic

In this episode of Barenaked Money, hosts Josh Sheluk and guest Matt Kempton, discuss the significant five-year anniversary of the market bottom during the pandemic on March 23, 2020. They reflect on the challenges and uncertainties of that period, the importance of not timing the market, and the relevance of diversification. They draw parallels between past and present market conditions, highlighting the constant presence of uncertainty and the need for levelheaded investment decisions. The discussion emphasizes the value of avoiding emotional responses in investment strategies and maintaining a diversified portfolio to...

Understanding Behavioral Finance with Lisa Kramer: From Seasonal Affective Disorder to Overconfidence

In this episode of Barenaked Money, host Colin White from Verecan Capital Management interview Lisa Kramer, the inaugural Verecan Chair in Behavioural Finance at the University of Toronto. They discuss the importance of behavioural finance, which integrates psychology into economic and financial contexts to understand decision-making processes. Key topics include the impact of sunlight on financial risk preferences, the differences between behavioural economics and behavioural finance, and practical advice for mitigating the effects of seasonal mood changes on investment decisions. Lisa also shares her research...

Post-Liberation Day Market Reactions: Navigating Volatility and Uncertainty

In this episode, Colin & Josh discuss the day-after effects of 'Liberation Day' on global markets. They observe significant drops in stock values and express concern over the heightened volatility. With global markets down roughly 3%, the discussion touches on how different sectors are affected, the human toll on affected industries and individuals, and the importance of cautious, long-term investment strategies. They emphasize the need for investors to remain patient and avoid rash decisions during turbulent times. The episode ends on a lighter note, with some strategies to stay distracted from...

Navigating the Complexities of Tariffs: Insights from Barenaked Money

In this episode of Barenaked Money, hosts Josh Sheluk and Colin White, portfolio managers at Verecan Capital Management, demystify the often confusing and volatile topic of tariffs. The discussion features a comprehensive look at the current state of tariffs, humorous anecdotes, and deep dives into the potential impacts on global trade, inflation, and investment strategies. They also discuss the impacts of various economic scenarios including pandemics, wars, and high inflation, and their potential effects on diversified portfolios. The episode concludes with practical advice on maintaining financial stability amidst...

Originally Aired August, 2022. Some ideas are worth resharing. 

In this episode of Barenaked Money, hosts Josh Sheluk and Colin White welcome Carl Richards, a renowned certified financial planner and creator of the Sketchguy column in the New York Times. Carl discusses his approach to making complex financial concepts accessible, including insights from his books 'The One-Page Financial Plan' and 'The Behavior Gap.' The conversation delves into the emotional aspects of financial decision-making, the importance of having a clear 'why' behind financial goals, and strategies to avoid common investment mistakes. Carl emphasizes the significance of having a f...

Barenaked Money: Answering Common Questions

In this episode of Barenaked Money, hosts Josh Sheluk and Colin White, portfolio managers at Verecan Capital Management, tackle a series of frequently asked questions about finance. They discuss the value and costs of mutual funds versus ETFs, demystify zero fee trading platforms, and highlight the importance of having a will. The hosts emphasize the consequences of not saving for retirement even if you have a pension and explain the right times to adjust your portfolio's asset mix. They offer advice on balancing debt repayment with saving, clarify misconceptions about growth versus...

The accounting industry has long been defined by billable hours, burnout, and outdated business models. But what if there was a better way? In this episode of Barenaked Money, Colin White sits down with Chris Brien, partner at Pinnacle Accountants & Advisors, to talk about how his firm is breaking the mold.

From ditching timesheets to embracing a client-first, subscription-based model, Chris shares insights on why the traditional accounting structure no longer serves professionals or business owners—and how firms like his are paving a new path. They discuss the talent crisis in the industry, the outdated incentives dr...

Contrarian Insights and Market Predictions with Nathaniel E. Baker

In this episode of Barenaked Money, hosts Josh Sheluk and Colin White welcome Nathaniel E. Baker, host of the Contrarian Podcast. They discuss the goals and achievements of the Contrarian Podcast, emphasizing the value of challenging prevailing market sentiments. The conversation covers past financial predictions, including the Magnificent Seven stocks, Bitcoin, and natural gas. The guests also delve into political, inflation, and geopolitical uncertainties forecasted for 2025. Additionally, Taylor Swift's economic impact and the potential uses of AI are explored, providing a broad look at current and future market...

Barenaked Money: Predicting Financial Trends for 2025

In this episode of Barenaked Money, hosts Josh Sheluk and Colin White, portfolio managers at Verecan Capital Management, Inc., dive into their financial predictions for 2025. They discuss potential market corrections, the efficacy of political promises like Trump's proposed savings, the impact of tariffs, and the performance of bonds and ETFs. It's a riveting conversation blending expert knowledge with humor and practical advice for the everyday investor.

00:00 Introduction to Barenaked Money
00:14 Predicting 2025: Accountability and Expectations
01:18 The Nature of Predictions: Risks and Rewards
02:48 Josh's Predictions: Politics First
03:22...

Recap and Predictions: A Financial Review and Forecast for 2024 and 2025

In this episode of Barenaked Money, hosts Josh Sheluk and Colin White from Verecan Capital Management take a look back at their financial predictions for 2024, examining which of their forecasts came to fruition and which missed the mark. They discuss topics including Canadian inflation rates, the real estate market, the performance of Bitcoin, and the influence of AI in various sectors. The episode also highlights the importance of context and external factors in financial forecasting, and sets the stage for their upcoming predictions for 2025. Listeners can expect...

Estate Planning Pitfalls and Precious Insights with Jonathan Hooper

In this episode of Barenaked Money, Colin White and Matthew Kempton of Verecan Capital Management are joined by special guest Jonathan Hooper, an estate lawyer with Tupman and Bloom, to explore common mistakes in estate planning. The conversation primarily focuses on the complications that arise from outdated estate plans, the dangers of joint ownership, and the legal intricacies involved in ensuring that your assets are passed on according to your wishes. Hooper shares his expertise on issues such as unaddressed changes in life circumstances, the complexities of the...

Team Introductions and Tackling Conflicts of Interest in Financial Services

In this episode, Josh begins by introducing various team members from Verecan Capital Management, sharing unique tidbits about each person. Following the introductions, portfolio managers Devin Cattelan and Colin White present on conflicts of interest within the financial services industry. The session covers topics like market updates, misleading financial advice, and the importance of integrity and fiduciary responsibility. The presenters share examples of good news stories, the impact of politics on markets, and the risks of do-it-yourself investing. 

They also discuss the challenges related to f...

Unveiling AI's Impact on Financial Planning with Diandra Camilleri

In this episode of Barenaked Money, host Colin White of Verecan Capital Management is joined by Diandra Camilleri, an associate portfolio manager and in-house AI expert. The conversation delves into the role of artificial intelligence in financial planning. They discuss Diandra's observations from a recent survey on Canadians using AI to manage finances and her experiments with AI tools like ChatGPT. The discussion touches on the promise and pitfalls of using AI for investment advice, highlighting both its potential and significant limitations. They also explore broader implications for...

Decoding Post-Election Investment Strategies

In this episode of Barenaked Money, hosts Josh Sheluk and Colin White from Verecan Capital Management, Inc. discuss the implications of the recent election on financial markets. They delve into the complexities of making investment decisions based on election outcomes, the unpredictability of policy changes, and the pitfalls of 'Trump trade' strategies. By examining past and present scenarios, they stress the importance of long-term financial planning and avoiding speculative investments. Throughout, they offer insights into how political events impact the economy and investor behavior, ultimately advocating for a measured and well-informed investment approach.<...

Navigating Global Financial Turbulence with Josh and Colin

In this episode of Barenaked Money, hosts Josh Sheluk and Colin White, portfolio managers at Verecan Capital Management Inc., discuss the latest global finance news. Topics include the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and its muted market impact, recent job reports from Canada and the U.S., and fluctuating interest rates. The duo also delves into regulatory challenges faced by TD Bank, highlighting a series of significant fines and governance issues. The episode underscores the unpredictable nature of markets and the importance of prudent financial planning.

00:00...

Navigating the Complexities of Intergenerational Wealth Transfer

In this insightful episode of Barenaked Money, host Josh Sheluk and Amanda McKenna, Associate Portfolio Manager at Verecan Capital Management, delve into the intricacies of intergenerational wealth transfer. The discussion covers crucial aspects such as ensuring one's financial stability before gifting, helping younger generations enter the housing market, and navigating evolving family dynamics. Key topics include the importance of communication to reduce conflicts, strategies for financial gifting, benefits of gradual distribution, tax implications, and potential legal issues of gifting property. The conversation highlights the necessity of involving financial advisors and...

The FIRE Movement: Balancing Financial Independence and Early Retirement

In this episode of Barenaked Money, hosted by Ainsley Mackie and Devin Cattelan from Verecan Capital Management Inc., the discussion centers around the FIRE movement—Financial Independence, Retire Early—popular among millennials. The hosts explore the aggressive savings strategies required, such as saving up to 50% of income and living minimally. They discuss the practicality of this movement, introducing concepts like the Rule of 25 and the 4% rule, which offer guidelines for retirement savings. The episode emphasizes the importance of balancing immediate fulfilment with long-term financial goals, personalized financial planning, and...

The Dividend Debate: Unpacking the Myths and Realities of Dividend Investing

In this episode of Barenaked Money, hosts Josh Sheluk and Colin White from Verecan Capital Management dissect the popular belief that dividend investing is a foolproof strategy. They discuss the underlying appeal of dividends and the potential misconceptions about dividend safety and provide insights into the historical performance of dividend-focused investments versus broad market indices. They also explore how the financial industry markets dividend products, the risks associated with over-concentrated dividend portfolios, and the importance of total return and diversification in investment strategy. The e...

Breaking Down TD Bank's $2.6B Fine & The Canadian Banking Landscape

In this episode of Barenaked Money, hosts Josh Sheluk and Colin White delve into TD Bank's recent $2.6 billion U.S. fine for anti-money laundering lapses in the States. They discuss how Canadian banks like TD operate in the U.S. market and the implications for their profitability and regulatory challenges. The conversation also touches on the Canadian banking system's stability and profitability, the impact of these international endeavors on Canadian investors, and the recent adjustments in U.S. jobs numbers and what they signify for market expectations...

Understanding Conflicts of Interest in Financial Advice

In this episode of Barenaked Money, hosts Josh Sheluk and Colin White, portfolio managers at Verecan Capital Management Inc., delve into the complex topic of conflicts of interest in financial advice. They explore conflicts, including those seen in independent financial firms, private investment products, and sell-side research. Through recent examples and in-depth discussion, Josh and Colin emphasize the importance of understanding the business models and compensation structures behind financial advice to help protect and educate investors. They conclude by stressing the necessity of consulting genuine professionals while remaining vigilant of...

The news in review. 

In this episode of Barenaked Money, hosts Josh Sheluk and Colin White discuss the latest financial news, focusing on the recent trends in tech stocks, particularly the significant decline of NVIDIA and its implications. They delve into the potential bubble forming around AI investments, drawing parallels to the dot-com bubble. They also touch on the economic indicators from Canada and the US, such as GDP numbers and interest rates, and debate the potential for a 'soft landing' in the economy despite rising debt levels.

00:00 Introduction to Barenaked Money
00:23 Recent Market H...

Understanding Home Bias and Risk in Canadian Investment Portfolios

In this episode of Barenaked Money, hosts Josh Sheluk and Matthew Kempton explore the topic of 'home bias' in Canadian investment portfolios. Fresh from a vacation, Matt discusses a recent study that reveals the tendency of Canadian investors to invest heavily in local assets compared to their global counterparts. They delve into the reasons behind this bias, including familiarity and perceived safety, and highlight the risks and reduced diversification from over-concentration in the Canadian market. The discussion also covers the impact of tax benefits, currency considerations, and the...

The Reality of Soft Landings: Myths, Markets, and Diversification Strategies

In this episode of Barenaked Money, hosts Josh Sheluk and Colin White from Verecan Capital Management, Inc. discuss the concept of a 'soft landing' in the financial markets. They explore the feasibility of maintaining stable economic conditions despite rising rates and inflation. The conversation delves into the performance and risks associated with major stocks, highlighting the dominance of companies like Nvidia. The hosts stress the importance of diversification and caution in portfolio management to navigate potential economic slowdowns. They conclude with advice on maintaining...

Estate Planning Mistakes: Common Errors and How to Avoid Them

In this episode of Barenaked Money, hosts Josh Sheluk and Colin White discuss common mistakes in estate planning. They emphasize the importance of having a will, the dangers of procrastination, and the need for regular updates and clear communication. They also touch on complications with executor selection, tax issues, and the pitfalls of overcomplicated wills. The episode offers practical advice for starting conversations with professional advisors and stresses the importance of simplicity and forethought in estate planning decisions.

00:00 Introduction to Barenaked Money
00:18 Estate Planning...

Barenaked Money: Understanding the Impact of Interest Rate Cuts on Your Finances

In this episode of 'Barenaked Money,' hosts Josh Sheluk and Colin White of Verecan Capital Management discuss the recent interest rate cut by the Bank of Canada. Through a series of candid questions, they explore the implications of the rate cut on various financial decisions, including variable rate mortgages, real estate investments, and the likelihood of a recession. They emphasize the importance of personal financial situations over market news and provide practical advice on navigating the current financial landscape. The episode also touches on...

This podcast episode is about the financial challenges and considerations of caring for elderly people. The hosts, Josh and Colin, are portfolio managers who share some statistics, options, and advice on how to plan for elder care, both as a potential caregiver and as a potential recipient. They discuss the costs and benefits of different types of care, such as public, private, and in-home care, as well as the importance of communication, simplicity, and flexibility. They also talk about some tax credits and government programs that can help with elder care expenses.

Philanthropy Unveiled: Expert Insights on Purposeful Giving

In this episode of Barenaked Money, Colin White and Matthew Kempton, alongside guest expert Peter Fardy from Northport Philanthropic, delve into the nuances of philanthropic giving. They discuss the importance of aligning donations with personal values, creating impactful giving strategies, and the significance of donor-organization partnerships. Listeners are guided on how to establish successful legacy funds, approach charitable organizations, and balance flexibility with focused giving. The conversation emphasizes the role of advisors in helping donors make informed and meaningful philanthropic decisions.

00:00 Introduction to Barenaked Money
00:17 Philanthropic Giving...

In this episode, Josh and Colin dive into the financial aspects of becoming a parent. They discuss budgeting for a new baby, insurance adjustments, and savings strategies to ensure your family is secure. Tune in for practical advice on preparing financially for this big life change.

The team reviews some of the more...interesting parts of the Canadian Federal Budget and, in terms that make sense, tell us how included changes might impact you. Josh & Colin also cover recent relevant headlines!

"In this episode of Barenaked Money, our hosts Josh Sheluk and Colin White, along with guests from the team, delve into real-life stories of the worst financial advice they've encountered. From eight-year car loans to misconceptions about real estate investments, this episode is packed with cautionary tales and insights on making prudent financial decisions."

In this compelling episode of Barenaked Money, join Colin White and guest Matt Kempton as we delve into the crucial conversation of money and estate planning. Discover the importance of discussing your estate plan with your family, the challenges and benefits that come with it, and how to navigate the biggest generational wealth transfer in Canadian history. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to make informed financial decisions for their future.

In this episode, Josh Sheluk and Colin White break down the complex world of retirement savings. They discuss pension plans, group RRSPs, and the key differences between defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Learn how each plan works, the benefits they offer, and why understanding longevity risk is crucial for your retirement strategy. Whether you're planning for retirement or just curious about your options, this episode offers valuable insights to navigate your savings plan effectively.

In this podcast episode, the hosts discuss the book "Thinking in Bets" by Annie Duke. They introduce the book and its author, highlighting Duke's background as a professional poker player and her expertise in decision strategy. The hosts then share their initial impressions of the book, with one host mentioning how it changed their perspective on decision-making as a form of betting. They discuss the concept of resulting and how it can impact decision-making, as well as the importance of evaluating the process rather than just the outcome. The hosts also discuss the value of uncertainty and the need...

In this episode, we're tackling the hot topic of Canada's population growth and its economic implications. We're discussing the concept of a "population trap", as highlighted by National Bank Financial, and the critical need for increased investment in our capital stock. Join us as we delve into how immigration affects the housing market and the significance of policy reforms in combating the housing shortage. We also examine the downturn in private sector investment and conclude with strategies to enhance Canada's living standards. Dive in with us for a comprehensive analysis of paving the path to prosperity.

In this insightful episode, Verecan's VP of Marketing & Communications, Kathryn Toope, sits down with Josh Sheluk, Chief Investment Officer at Verecan Capital Management Inc., to delve into the core of Verecan's investment philosophy and process. Sheluk shares the firm's approach to navigating the unpredictability of the markets without engaging in futile forecasting. Through a blend of collaborative decision-making, diversification, and a keen focus on downside protection and risk assessment, they outline how they construct resilient investment portfolios. The conversation also covers their methodical approach to buying and selling investments, underscored by the importance of rigorous research and due diligence...

In this episode of the Barenaked Money Podcast, join hosts Josh Sheluk and Matthew Kempton as they delve into key trends for 2024. Topics include the Canadian entrepreneurial renaissance, AI's impact on energy, the rise in centenarians, fertility trends, the future of private equity, changes in streaming services, and the growth of content creation as a career. They also discuss the importance of emotional well-being in retirement planning. Tune in for a lively debate and insightful perspectives on these emerging trends.

In this episode of the Barenaked Money Podcast, we explore the "Bank on Yourself" or infinite banking concept. Our hosts scrutinize the marketing claims and shed light on the often opaque world of the insurance industry. They emphasize the significance of aligning financial decisions with personal goals and caution against blindly following investment trends. While not opposing life insurance, the episode clarifies its appropriate use and warns against its exploitation.

In this captivating episode of the Barenaked Money Podcast, hosts Josh Sheluk and Colin White take listeners on a speculative journey into the financial year ahead. They approach the episode with a blend of scepticism and wit, reminding us that predicting the future is more art than science, and their insights are meant to stir curiosity rather than serve as concrete financial advice.

Their discussions weave through an array of bold yet tongue-in-cheek predictions: a fleeting moment of Canadian inflation dropping under 2%, bonds unexpectedly trumping their past performance, and a surprising turn for the stock market's 'magnificent...