As we enter spring, we find ourselves once again surrounded by uncertainty. Times are changing, and many regions around the world are facing significant political, social, and trade upheaval. Our previous Prime Minister and his administration believed that, as responsible Canadians, we had to fully commit to saving the world from climate Armageddon. In the process, jobs were sacrificed, taxes were increased, and our immigration doors were opened widely, often at the expense of the health and financial well-being of the taxpayers. Consequently, government debt has soared.
With real wages declining and living expenses on the rise, it is imperative that we reassess our financial situations. We understand the necessity of living within our means and recognize that current government policies are unsustainable. The volatility in markets and trade indicates that change is on the horizon. Should we protect our savings by converting to cash or selling our holdings in emerging markets? Should we consider relocating to the countryside, starting a garden, investing in solar panels, or buying gold?
We are fortunate to possess abundant natural resources and the right to vote, allowing us to influence the direction of our government. Thankfully, we have weathered storms like this before; we've witnessed markets rise and fall, and interest rates fluctuate. We know that we can mitigate risk through diversification. Our investments are not tied to governments or political ideologies; instead, we invest in publicly owned companies across various jurisdictions. A smaller portion of our savings is allocated to bonds, while a larger share is invested in shares of profitable companies. Both bonds and stocks are acquired through global exchanges that facilitate the trading of securities, providing essential goods and services to those in need.
The management of these portfolios is handled by professional teams with specialized expertise, whom we have relied on for many years. We stand to benefit during times like these, as fund managers can purchase stocks at discounted prices due to market volatility.
We have faced challenges before, and the answer remains consistent: Stay the course. Focus on your family and those around you. Stay informed about current issues and educate yourself on the policies you can support. It is our responsibility to ensure that we leave the world in the best possible condition for the next generation.
Thank you once again for your enduring support. Enjoy your family and the upcoming season.
Sincerely,
Don Stone