Planning Ahead for the Fall

I hope you’re enjoying these last weeks of summer. Whether it’s time at the cottage, travel, or simply slowing down, August is a wonderful time to pause and reflect — not just personally, but financially as well.

The first half of 2025 has been an eventful one for investors. Canadian markets have been steady, supported by energy and financials, while U.S. markets continue to benefit from technology growth. (See chart below)



Interest rates remain unchanged for now, though talk of potential cuts is on the horizon. The target overnight rate set by the bank of Canada has been declining over the past year, down from a high of 5% in 2023 and 2024, although has remained steady for the last number of months. Globally, we’ve seen mixed results, with North America proving resilient but growth in Europe and Asia lagging.

What does this mean for you? In short — balance remains essential. Diversification across equities, bonds, and alternatives helps manage uncertainty while still capturing opportunities.

Financial Planning Highlights

This time of year is also a good opportunity to revisit some financial basics:

• Families may want to make RESP withdrawals to help cover tuition payments for children attending post secondary. You may also wish to make contributions before year-end to maximize government grants.
• After summer spending, it’s wise to revisit your budget and cash flow plan.
• And for many, topping up RRSPs or TFSAs can help strengthen both tax efficiency and long-term growth.

It’s also worth remembering that the fall often brings more market volatility. September and October have historically seen sharper market swings. That doesn’t mean losses are guaranteed, but it’s a reminder to stay calm, remain focused on long-term goals, and ensure your portfolio is aligned with your risk tolerance.

As we move toward the last part of the year, here are a few practical steps you may wish to take:

• Check your progress toward annual savings goals.
• Confirm your retirement withdrawal strategy, if applicable.

Most importantly, I encourage you to enjoy the remaining weeks of summer. Financial planning is about creating confidence and peace of mind so that you can fully enjoy moments like these.

If you’d like to review your plan or discuss any adjustments before year-end, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d be happy to set up a time to connect.

Best,

Jon


Jonathan Adomait
Financial Planner | CFP, CIM, B.Eng