Investment Q&A

Q: With the US economy predicted to outperform Canada's next year, would you suggest tilting portfolios toward US equities? On a related note, both my TFSA and RSP are filled with US stocks, meaning addition US equities would have to go into a cash account. Can you recommend a website that clearly outlines tax consequences at various income levels in non-registered accounts for both capital gains and interest from US stocks? Thank you.

Q: The Fidelity International Value index ETF has done very well over the past year. Its seems like value style of investments has performed better then growth/ momentum style in the last year for the global sector. Do you think this trend will continue for international stocks or is it the other way round. Looking forward for the next 2-3 years would interest rates going down be more of a favorable environment for the valve stocks?

Q: I would like to keep "high risk stocks" in my non-registered account, aka trading account, rather than in my TFSA or RRSP or LIRA accounts. But I'm wondering what the attributes or metrics or characteristics of "high risk stocks" are in Canada or US. Keen to learn from you what to look for for such stocks....Thanks....Tom 

Q: Is your allocation recommendation specific to either the US or Canadian market or is it a blend of both?

Q: Hi,

After any stock breaks to all time highs, such as Lumine and Boyd lately, I know this is a sign of strength of the stock and I know you like when this happens. If I wanted to add to a current position or initiate a new one, what factors do you look at in order to buy?

For example, the companies may have had good earnings lately or analysts may have upgraded their price targets and initiated coverage. I know there are a lot of different unknown factors at work in the market, but what would cause investors to pay up and drive a stock up to new highs with no current news? Do you look at volume on the breakout or mainly just long term fundamentals? Do you look for the stock to hold that new level before buying? I'm not a trader, but more longer term focused investor now. I'm always of the belief that there are smarter investors out there that have more information than others, which causes stocks to be mispriced. Thoughts?

Thanks!

Q: Hello, I have a mortgage renewing in the next 2 months. Currently, my bank is offering a 3 year fixed 50 bps (0.5%) lower than a 5 year variable. The 4 year and 5 year fixed are only about 25 bps lower than the 3 year fixed so I don't think those are good options.
I'm curious to 5i's thoughts on where interest rates may go in the next 1-3 years? (I'm leaning to the variable as I think the BOC is going to have to cut rates over the next 2 years).
Thanks,
John

Q: I have 13% of my portfolio in diverse covered calls that hold blue chip companies. I am comfortable with that as I look mainly for income. The portfolio is composed of 30% ETF's including the covered calls and 70% individual stocks (16/56). there are a few growth but mostly dividend paying blue chip many that are repeated in the covered call ETF's. I am 77, and have a defined teacher pension.
Total positions are 56. This seems to suit my needs as I have survived so far with a steady income. Am I making a misake or does this seem a valid plan?

Q: Is LSPD recent results (Nov 2nd) represent a significant improvement or you would still stay on the side line before adding or starting new position? How would you compare NUVEI and LSPD today?
Thanks for your insight, Peter

Q: I'm split at 20% ETF and 80% stock. Going into 2024 where do you see the canadian market vs the S&P or MSCI EAFE ? The US has outperformed the other 2 in 2023 as usual but do you believe that this continues into 2024? Could you comment on the 3 and what are the chances for the Canadian and International markets to perform better than they have in the coming years?

Q: In your answer to Terry today you stated "we would suggest also looking at sector exposure in this decision, to see that sectors align with objectives." My objective is to secure a very comfortable retirement that includes travel with investments that are as tax efficient as possible. I'm 63, and struggling with my sectors. How would one with align their sectors with this objective. I know sectors are a personal decision and you can't give personal advice but I'm looking for an example as a starting place to make my decision. Thank you

Q: Annuities? To be or not to be? As a retiree I'm pondering whether to buy an annuity at a time when the payouts are at a recent hight. I'm not sure I see any advantage over buying say ENB. The company will likely be still around in twenty years with just as much assurance as an annuity provider. I'll get a dandy, tax-advantaged dividend ( not "guaranteed", I know) and still have my capital. can you comment on annuities and whether they make sense or not? thanks. al

Q: David's call is for Cdn bonds to outperform in 2024 due to the necessity of BOC to cut rates due to mortgage doomsaying. What do you think and if you concur what etfs should one buy?

Q: After the fed stopped increasing rates what was the average rate of return 12 months and 24 months in the TSX and S&P 500?

Q: Hi 5i,
I want to add a rail position. What’s your thesis on CNR vs CP?

Thank you!

Q: Hello Peter,

A couple of months ago you were of the opinion that interest rates were near peak or peaked and it has been proven to be correct. The treasury yields however have continued to rise and the market has been selling off during the period. I have a couple of questions, primarily for the US market but would like your opinion for the Canadian market as well.
Do you think there is further downside or are we close to the bottom? When looking for the rebound when it happens, which sectors would you avoid and where would you lean for a faster recovery? Is your answer different for the Canadian market?
It is often said the time to buy is when there is blood on the street. Are we there yet? I will need to sell sectors to raise cash and hope your answer provides some pointers on what direction I should be looking at.
As usual I appreciate your insight.
Regards.

Q: Markets have been in a steady decline now for some time. TSX is now below 18875 and continues to drop. Personally I feel the Bank of Canada has successfully created the fear needed coupled with the fact that we are probably already in a recession. What is 5i feeling regarding capitulation and this market turning around.
Thanks Rick

Q: What is your thinking as regards the escalating deficits the USA is allowing to occur ?

Q: Hi 5i

I'm asking for a gut feel response, does this "fear" train seem any more concerning than at other times previously in your career going back to the mid 80's (I think this is right) ?
>>> "when the market 'settles down' but right now investors are back on the 'fear' train and worried about many things"

I believe interest rates are closer to "normal" today rather than our recent history but can understand many younger investors having a recency bias. (Even if I was too young to invest during those peaking 15-20% days of old)

Maybe I'm just a perpetual optimist.

Thanks

Q: Do you think it is a good time to add bonds? It seems the most likely scenario's (slow growth with moderating inflation like now, or full blown recession) will be more favourable to bond investors than equity holders. What is the asset mix you would employ and do you favour longer bonds today? Thanks.

Q: Hi group...If we assume the conflict in middle east is going to escalate. What are you thoughts on a strategy to take advantage ...I am thinking we might test last Oct lows...What your thoughts on this?.
I have $100,000) cash waiting to invest at some point... do you suggest entry soon? and if so what is your top 10 picks regardless of sector or market. Thanks for your insight