December is known for many things, slowing down, gathering with the people we care about and spending a little more on gifts, food and moments that matter. The holidays are a pause in time, a chance to take a breath and take stock, not just of what is in our wallets, but of where we are, where we’ve been and where we are going.
Where We Were
It would be fictitious to say that 2025 was an easy year for Canadians and our finances. For several years now, our portfolios have grappled with global uncertainty, and this past year was no exception. We felt the ripple effects of trade disputes and shifting government priorities, and persistently high costs of living.
Yet, in true Canadian fashion, we kept on. We adjusted plans, rebalanced our portfolios, and kept moving forward toward our goals.
The Bank of Canada’s 2025 Financial Stability Report noted a surprising resilience in our financial systems. Despite global volatility, from repricing in equities, bonds and currencies, markets continued to function well. Investors responded thoughtfully, reducing risk where needed, but staying the course.
The same report shows that mortgage holders showed remarkable endurance in the face of higher payments. While signs of financial stress have emerged across the country, many households have proven resourceful and disciplined in managing change.
All in all, 2025 reminded us of something important: even when things get tough, Canadians have a quiet way of keeping steady, finding strength not in certainty, but in consistency.
Where We Are
Embracing the headwinds, the outlook entering 2026 is one of cautious optimism. Global inflation has cooled, and interest rates are starting to come down, but the relief hasn’t yet reached every household or business. Affordability remains at the forefront, shaping how Canadians spend and save, from housing to groceries and borrowing.
With this, we are seeing more intentional choices, reflected in fewer discretionary purchases, an increased focus on debt repayment, and a renewed effort to support local economies. Investors and families are turning their attention inward to focus on their own communities, goals, and values.
The 2025 Federal Budget has also set the tone for a changing landscape, reflecting many of the same realities Canadians are facing, as they balance growth with restraint and long-term investment with immediate affordability.
What matters most is how these changes will fit into your personal financial plan. As 2026 begins, thoughtful adjustments and ongoing review will help ensure your goals stay on track, regardless of any policy-level shifts that may occur.
Where We Are Going: Bringing It Home
Trade disputes will ebb and flow, market volatility will come and go, and economic cycles will continue. But through it all, the fundamentals of preparation, perspective and patience are what will keep us grounded.
Localizing investment opportunities and monitoring global trade tensions are important considerations, but they are only part of the picture. External factors will continue to shift, but the constant is you, your goals, your long-term plan and your ability to stay true to a well-prepared portfolio. Preparation remains the most reliable strategy for staying ahead in good times and bad.
The year-end is an ideal moment to review your financial plan, adjust it to life’s changing circumstances and work with a portfolio manager to align strategies with Budget 2025. With a grounded understanding of your goals and a pulse on broader economic shifts, we ensure plans are built for both resilience and progress.
At RaeLipskie Partnership, we see every day how meaningful it is when clients take the time to reflect on what they truly want their finances to support, whether it’s family, stability, opportunity or long-term security; that clarity is the foundation of any strong financial plan.
Our team works with you to put the right pieces into place and build a strong foundation. Whether it’s emergency savings, education funding, retirement planning or investment priorities, we start with your end goal and shape a pathway that makes those goals attainable, whatever the landscape brings.
Connect with one of our portfolio managers to start 2026 on the right financial footing.
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