Q: Hello 5i,

We were reading a report on the risk for corporate bonds due to a tightening of spreads. Our goal from a previous question is to protect funds needed in the next 3 years to augment CPP and OAS (no pensions).

We added bonds, but that plan may require a new assessment. Currently, our portfolio has a small position (2%) of Bonds consisting of AGT, VCLT, VCIT, & VAB. We also have laddered GIC’s for 5 years, plus PSA & BIL (for vacations in the US).

We are looking at replacing AGT & VAB with PSA and VCLT & VCIT with BIL. Do you have any other suggestions that may meet our goals?

Thank you
D&J

Q: Hello 5i,
We have CDN and US funds in our RRSP’s and TFSA’s, no pensions, income is CPP and OAS only, + RRSP withdraws.

We are looking at placing funds needed for the next 3 years into less volatile environment with a yield of 4%-5%. We have laddered GIC's and PSA for CDN funds and are looking for something similar in US funds. Our equities (stocks and ETF's) would remain in place though each year we would sell some stocks and purchase short-term ETF’s to retain a 3-year comfort zone. This allows us to retain higher risk equities in a longer time-frame in case of a large drawback.

Some examples we found were IGSB, BIL, VGLT, VCIT, VCSH, AGG, IEF. Do you have any recommendations? What are your thoughts on long-term Treasuries with a Trump win? Dump and run?

Thank you for your service.

D&J

Q: In many of the investment articles I have been reading Bonds are being touted as a good investment in 2024. Do you agree? If yes, what Bond ETF's would you recommend?