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Retirement

Why every financial plan is wrong —and that’s OK

As interest rates, inflation, markets, and even you will constantly change over time, a financial plan can never be 100% accurate. But here's why you still need one.

The importance of planning early and often

Financial plans are not a “one and done” exercise. Learn why you need to regularly update this living document to stay on track with your financial goals.

How to succeed as a solo retiree

Facing retirement as a single person can be daunting. Here we offer six tips to make your retirement journey smooth and stress-free.

Aging in place

Many Albertans wish to stay in their own home as long as possible. This resource will help you identify planning and prevention considerations for aging in place.

Retirement planning - it’s not just about finances

A fulfilling retirement is more than having financial security, it requires a healthy body and mind, having a purpose and maintaining strong social connections.

Understanding Registered Retirement Income Funds

Uncover the subtle differences between RRIFs and RRSPs and identify which may be a better fit for you and your retirement goals.

Education

RESP options when your child changes course

An RESP is a great way to save for your child’s education, but what happens if they choose not to pursue a post-secondary program?

A financial back to school checklist

As school starts this fall, here is a list of financial considerations, including your budget and education savings plan.

Understanding your RESP options

Learn about RESPs: how much you can contribute, what government grants provide, and what happens if your child doesn't attend a post secondary institution.

What do I need to set up an RESP?

There are 3 basic documents needed to set up an RESP. Learn what they are so you can be prepared and make the process quick and easy.

What do you need to withdraw money from an RESP

In order to withdraw funds from your RESP you'll need to complete some steps for validation. Read through as we uncover what these steps entail.

Maximize Your RESP Contributions

Take advantage of the government grant that matches up to 20% on your contributions to an RESP and learn about carry-forward room for missed contributions.

Estates

Succession planning for the family vacation property

Your vacation property is an important part of your estate, and requires special consideration. Start the process with these important questions.

Planning for digital assets

Learn about digital assets and the importance of considering these unique assets in your estate plan in an increasingly digital world.

Three ideas for charitable giving in your lifetime

If you are looking to support a charitable cause today here are some ideas on how to do so.

Considerations for charitable giving

Before meeting with your lawyer or accountant to discuss making a charitable donation, consider these important questions.

Planning in advance to transfer wealth, and fund your estate goals

If your estate goals include leaving financial gifts, it’s important to ensure your generosity won’t impact your desired lifestyle. A financial plan can help achieve both.

Providing for your pets after you’re gone

Pets are part of your family, but have you included them in your will? Here are four tips to make sure your pets are looked after.

Planned Philanthropic Giving Guide

A comprehensive guide for anyone contemplating meaningful charitable giving.

Tax and Protection

Capital gains tax changes: what it means for your corporation

With expected changes coming to the capital gains inclusion rate on June 25, 2024, we discuss the potential impact to corporations, as well as some strategies to consider.

Capital gains tax changes and the impact on your personal finances

This article discusses the potential impact changes to capital gains taxation might have on your personal financial situation.

Using estate freeze planning as a tax deferral strategy

Estate freeze planning is a popular strategy when it comes to tax deferral. Learn more about the benefits and risks that come with this type of approach.

Understanding your personal taxes in Alberta

An overview of how to calculate your personal tax rate, including basic tax concepts and how the amount of tax you pay is determined.

2024 federal budget: Tax and benefit highlights

Learn more about significant changes to capital gains taxation, enhancements to the Home Buyers’ Plan and the new Canada Disability Benefit.

Navigating the new trust reporting rules

Under the new tax rules, most trusts will now be required to file an annual T3 return. Make sure you understand your filing obligations to avoid penalties.

Investing and Saving

The ATB Wealth Investing Fundamentals Guide

Grow your knowledge of investing and increase your confidence around managing your money.

Why a spending plan beats budgeting

Don’t like budgeting? Try a spending plan instead, which will empower you to say “yes” to what’s really important. We show you how.

Why asset allocation is key to investment success

Building a home requires careful planning and so does an investment portfolio. Find out how asset allocation can be your blueprint for investment success.

Passive vs. active investing

Passive and active investing can both play an important role in a portfolio. Learn about the benefits and limitations of each approach.

Five ways to overcome the challenges of diversification

We explain the behavioural biases that come with maintaining a diversified portfolio and strategies to overcome them.

Is now the time to buy a GIC?

When GIC rates increase, investors notice – especially when markets are turbulent. But there are both benefits and drawbacks to consider when looking at GICs.

Why your financial plan deserves a human touch

Financial planning technology can be useful, but can’t replicate the insight and advice a financial advisor offers. ATB Wealth’s Melissa Arenas explains why.

Markets

Will the US election impact your portfolio?

Elections often create heightened uncertainty for investors—here’s how to protect your portfolio, no matter the outcome.

How markets react to interest rate changes

We explore how markets reacted to past interest rate cuts, and discuss how investors can cushion their portfolios from a possible downturn in the market.

Why diversified investors are quietly benefitting from AI

Learn more about artificial intelligence across sectors, and your exposure to AI as an investor.

Timing the market is tricky, but investing doesn’t need to be

Market dips and rallies in 2023 reinforced that investors are more likely to be successful when they stay invested.

Thinking about investing in AI? Get to know the basics first

Whether you’re just curious about artificial intelligence or researching stocks, start with this primer on AI.

When to get back into the market

Persuasive negative market narratives can make it tempting to switch to low-risk cash products. Find out how to get back in when markets recover.

Lifestyle

Helping your child with their first home

Parental instincts might compel you to help your child buy their first home, but there are many pros and cons to consider, as well as government programs that can help.

Tips for passing financial sense to the next generation

Having early conversations about personal finance can set the next generation up for financial success throughout the course of their life.   

Wealth is more than just money

Wealth means having riches across all facets of your life. Our Private Investment Counsel team discusses the qualities shared by those who consider themselves truly wealthy. 

Four tips for growing a strong legacy on the family farm

ATB Wealth senior financial advisors share their top tips for overcoming the most common challenges for growing intergenerational wealth on the family farm.

Buying versus renting your home

It’s possible to build wealth both as a homeowner and renter, but which one is the better choice for your future? Find out in this breakdown of both scenarios.

Four tips to thrive as a gig worker

The gig economy is growing, especially among millenials and Gen Zs. Here we offer savings and insurance tips to help set gig workers up for success.

Insurance

Are my group benefits enough?

Many workers are covered by employer-provided group benefits, but depending on your household needs and expenses, more coverage may be required to protect you and your family. 

How much life insurance do I need?

Use this assessment and article to guide you through understanding your lifestyle protection needs. 

Answering your questions about disability insurance

Understanding disability insurance, including applying for disability insurance and compensation timing.

Applying for life insurance - what to expect

Applying for life insurance is an important step in preparing for the future, but it can feel overwhelming. Here's what to expect.

How to choose the right type of life insurance for you

Your specific life needs will help determine the right life insurance for you. Here we help you understand term, whole life and universal life insurance options.

Dispelling myths about life insurance

Dispelling common myths about life insurance to help you decide what insurance is best for you.

Fraud Prevention

How to spot attempted investment fraud

Online fraudsters can fool even the most savvy social media users. Protect yourself from investment fraud by knowing the red flags.

Falling victim to a fraud or scam

Falling victim to a scammer could derail decades of retirement planning and saving. Find out how to plan for the unexpected in retirement.

Protecting yourself from investment fraud

Fraudsters have many ways of tricking unsuspecting investors. Learn more about the most common types of investment scams and how to avoid them.

Fraud prevention starts with knowledge.

Stay up to date with information on fraud awareness and protection.

ATB Wealth experts are ready to listen.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced investor, we can help.