Rubina Ahmed-Haq

For the second time in a row the U.S. Federal Reserve has cut its benchmark interest rate.

Canadians are giving each other a leg-up onto the property ladder in growing numbers.

The Bank of Canada is holding its key benchmark rate for the seventh time in a row, despite the U.S. Federal Reserve cutting its own for the first time in 10 years.

Chase Bank is forgiving all outstanding debt held by its Canadian credit card customers.

Higher minimum payments are aimed at decreasing the interest paid over the lifetime of a credit card debt.

The Toronto Real Estate Board throws its support behind a proposal made by the city last year to transform its laneway space into residential properties.

Interest rates put in a holding pattern as global trade tensions remain top of mind for the Bank of Canada.

Longer-term mortgages could create a market for private mortgage-based security and ease financial obstacles for first-time homebuyers.

Highlights from the 2019 Ontario budget announcement.

An overview of the CMHC dividend framework, and its effect on Canadians seeking high rate mortgages.

One big bank expects BoC interest rates to hold steady into next year – but not everyone agrees.

Canadian government promises up to 10 percent for first-time home buyers in 2019 Federal Budget

This week, market watchers are waiting to hear what the Bank of Canada will do when do when it comes to interest rates.

Previously, going with a variable mortgage meant saving money over the long term. But last week, RBC cut its 5-year fixed rate by 15 basis points, giving customers the option to…

As the RRSP deadline approaches, it's important to understand if a contribution makes sense for you.

In its first announcement of the year, the Bank of Canada held its overnight rate at 1.75%. Forecasters now only predict two rate hikes this year.

Canadians should brace themselves now for money to get more expensive, and all the other broader impacts of a rate hike on the economy.

With all the hustle and bustle that’s synonymous with this time of year, soon enough, it will be time to file our taxes again.

The Bank of Canada decided to keep the overnight benchmark rate at 1.75% for several reasons, leading to uncertainty as some forecasters now believe there may not be a hike in the upcoming January announcement…

The Bank of Canada announced this morning that it is hiking its key interest rate, for the third time this year, to 1.75%, likely affecting prime rates at banks...

With the new trade agreement, entitled the United States Mexico Canada Agreement (USMCA), Canadians will be able to purchase goods up to $150 CAD without paying…

According to a new MPC report, the new mortgage stress test is leaving 18% of home buyers out of the market, though most can still afford to make monthly payments…

Nothing good comes from making quick, impulsive decisions. I learned this the hard way. When markets were sinking in 2008, I capitulated and went to cash. I was scared my money…

Bank of Canada Governor Stephen Poloz announced at a news conference this morning that the benchmark interest rate is being hiked to 1.5% due to strong numbers. Canadians can now expect increases in goods like…

In 2018, new Ontario mortgage applicants likely won’t be able to afford the same home, as stricter mortgage rules come into place. And while those with a fixed rate mortgage are not impacted by interest rate increases implemented by the Bank of Canada, their affordability will be affected as well.

Effective Jan. 2018, all Canadians applying for a new mortgage will be subject to a stricter stress test to assess if they could still make mortgage payments in the event interest rates rise. The new guidelines will reduce how much you can afford…

Last week, Equifax reported it had suffered a major data breach, affecting more than 143 million consumers in the U.S. as well as “limited personal information” from Canadian and U.K. consumers.

As the prime rate rises, so does the cost of borrowing money, or taking out any type of loan. Here are other areas where students can expect rising interest rates to affect their finances come September.

For the first time in almost seven years, the Bank of Canada has raised its key interest rate. In its scheduled Monetary Policy Report (MPR), the bank announced this morning that it is increasing the rate by…

The Ontario Securities Commission alleges that Home Capital and CFO Robert Morton, Founder and former CEO Gerald Soloway, and former CEO Martin Read, misled shareholders.

Historically speaking, when American interest rates rise or fall, Canada follows. That might not be the case this time.

Apple Pay is making more inroads into Canada as two of the biggest banks, CIBC and RBC, say starting now, customers can use the Wallet App.

The Panama Papers reveal how widespread tax evasion is in Canada and around the world. How do these practices impact the Canadian tax system? And how will the government react?

Is your credit score mortgage ready? Many Canadians don’t know the state of their score before starting the pre-approval and application process – and they could be in for a nasty surprise. Here’s what you need to know about your score – and how you can improve your chances of qualifying for a mortgage.

Jingle mail, the act of defaulting on your mortgage and mailing your keys back to the bank, is a growing issue in Alberta, as low oil prices lead to economic downturn. Read on for the full story.

Oil prices have dropped 75 per cent since early 2015 – so why aren’t drivers seeing any gas price relief at the pump? There are a number of factors behind gas pricing – read on for our breakdown.

Stop buying what you can’t afford and never carry credit card debt you know you can’t pay off.

Are Toronto condos still a good investment? A senior BMO economist has found they’ve historically offered a better return than the TSX. Here’s what buyers and investors should know.

The latest numbers from Statistics Canada show the national debt-to-income ratio has hit 164.4% – the biggest increase since 2011. Why is debt spiralling so high in Canada – and what can consumers do to lower their own ratios?

Canada’s big banks are slow adopters of what is becoming a mainstream method to pay for goods.

Foreign real estate investment is a point of contention for expensive markets like Vancouver, where locals allege prices are driven excessively high by buyers who don’t even reside in the city. Now, the Conservative government has made a re-election promise to address the issue – but at what cost?

Families with kids under 17 are receiving a bank account boost this week as the retroactive payments for the increased Universal Child Care Benefit arrive.

Is a Canadian recession becoming a reality? A recent rate cut from the Bank of Canada, and lacklustre economic data point point to a downturn. So why won’t our top bankers use the “R word”?

Could today mark the long-feared Grexit? As Greece defaults on its IMF loans and risks removal from the Eurozone, concerns arise over the global economic impact. Here’s what you need to know.

What’s the biggest risk to our economy? It’s not the low price of oil – the Bank of Canada recently revealed that high levels of household debt and steep housing market are their biggest causes for concern. Here’s what that means for you.

Prospective homeowners may see their affordability shrink as another set of mortgage rules are slated to go into effect this summer. Here’s what buyers need to know.

It has been a truly hot spring housing season, and lenders are using new mortgage marketing tactics as a result. Here are three we’ve seen so far – and whether they’re truly as great as they seem.

A not-so-nice surprise for Albertans; home buyers can expect their land transfer tax and mortgage registration fees to rise as the province feels the squeeze from dropping oil prices.

Bank of Canada Governor Stephen Poloz has stated economic conditions in Canada will be “atrocious” in Q1. How should Canadian consumers react to this news?

Is it a good idea to use RSPs to buy a home? The Home Buyers’ Plan can help you get your down payment together, faster. MoneyWise writer Rubina shares her experience tapping into the plan.

Calgary housing market sales have dropped nearly 40% as the fallout from lower oil prices takes effect, though prices have remained strong. What’s in store for sellers – and prospective buyers waiting for a softer market?

Recent CRA TFSA audits have made some savers nervous about using these tax-free savings vehicles to grow their money. Should you worry? Rubina breaks down what behaviour the CRA is looking for.

Toronto’s condominium market is soaring as Canada’s largest city continues to attract more people for work and play. Currently, there are more than 100,000 units under construction, 123 high rise projects underway and 160 planned to start soon.

Patriots may bristle at the "Americanization" of such an iconic Canadian brand, but this new development is good for Canada.

Earlier this month, Statistics Canada misreported Canada’s July job numbers – an important indicator for economic growth. The mistake has since been rectified, but what should consumers know about the situation – and what does the revised data tell us?

The Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA) has now been available to Canadian consumers for six years – but Canadians are still unclear on how to use it. The CRA reports many savers are over-contributing – and getting dinged by tax penalties for their efforts.

What makes for a satisfied Canadian banking customer? According to The Canadian Retail Banking Customer Satisfaction Study, no-fee banking tops the list. The survey, now in its ninth year, was released this week by JD Power and Associates. In it, customers were asked to rank their level of satisfaction with their lender.

There are a number of things you can do right now to make sure you get the maximum tax benefit owed to you.

ETS may be a good choice to anyone who is risk averse and looking to grow his or her money slowly over time.

The Volcker Rule is the centrepiece of the larger Dodd-Frank financial reform law.

Attention Black Friday shoppers – did you know that 50% more Canadians plan to hit the malls this year? However, shopping holidays can be disastrous for those already carrying significant debt. Here are the top do’s – and don'ts – for deal seekers this year.

Opening a joint bank account is a big step for any couple – and it’s important to agree on how that money will be spent and saved. A recent study finds that while many couples share their accounts and assets such as mortgages, they haven’t shared their long term financial plan goals with each other.

Should you invest in Twitter? The latest social media network to go public is drawing comparisons to Facebook, and causing investor speculation.

Are you planning to take a vacation this fall? A new BMO study finds Canadians are willing to go into debt to finance their getaways. Looking to save costs and get some badly needed R&R? Check out these frugal tips for taking time off.

Deciding whether to start an RESP for your child? Not doing so means missing out on free money – tens of thousands of dollars! Here are a few of the ways your RESP earns money, and some of the most common misconceptions explained.

The Canadian Tire bank branch is set to expand as the retailer giant searches for a new lending partner. Will this have any effect on current banking consumers?

Be wary of unsolicited emails or calls promising a competitive low interest credit card in exchange for a fee – it’s the latest ploy from fraudsters out to acquire your sensitive financial information. Here’s how to protect yourself, and what to do if you’re targeted.

The recent acquisition of Shoppers Drug Mart by Loblaw Cos Ltd. is a move that challenges the onslaught of American big box retailers in Canada. Does this mean lower prices for Canadian consumers?

With no change made to the Bank of Canada’s Overnight Lending Rate since September 2010, economists look at the perceived “rate bias” indicated in the wording of rate announcements. This bias is seen as a hint of where rates may go next and are powerful enough to influence global markets.

Money markets can make up an important part of you portfolio.

Credit card convenience cheques carry hefty interest charges.

Finance Minister Jim Flaherty recently expressed disapproval toward those who plan to short the Canadian housing market. How does short selling work, and could it apply to Canada’s market conditions?

There is a close relationship between fixed mortgage rates and government of Canada bond yields. Read on to see if a recent spike means higher mortgage rates.

Canada has been considered a ‘safe haven’ nation for investors as the world’s economy continues to be unstable. How do the bond markets of nations around the world impact our own economic growth?

As long as real estate property values continue to rise, the interest for retailers to turn their properties into real cash generators will exist creating some unique opportunities for Canadian investors.

A legal loophole has been discovered that leaves Ontario tenants vulnerable to steep rent increases – particularly in Toronto’s hot condo market. Here’s how to protect yourself from an increase – and how to fight back if they happen to you.

Paying taxes with a credit card has never been an option in Canada – until now. A third party credit card company located in Toronto is now offering the service, which is not endorsed by the CRA. Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering this form of payment.

March is fraud prevention month, and a great time to assess the safety of your finances. Check out our tips for staying extra vigilant.

A currency war is a deliberate act to weaken the dollar in hopes to stimulate a nation's economy, bring more business inside a country’s borders and promote export lead growth.

This Monday marked the end of production for the Canadian penny, Canada’s oldest form of currency. What does this mean for both consumers and businesses?

IIROC’s recent investigation into the CDOR rates (the Canadian equivalent to LIBOR) finds a need for more transparent regulations. What does this mean for Canadian borrowers?

A study from the University of Guelph shows meat costs will rise in 2013. What can you do as a consumer to save on your grocery bill? Read on for ways to stock up, and shop with a savings strategy.

Takeovers can be good for Canada when it can mean more jobs and better service but they can also mean larger companies get so big that no other smaller companies can ever compete with them.

Economic capacity helps put into perspective where a nation is going and where it has been.

Downsizing to a smaller home or condo can be an effective way to free up equity, but it’s not always the right route. If you’re a boomer looking to cut corners, but can’t bear to part with the family home, consider these options.

Many Canadian boomers are considering trading the family home for a compact condo to cut living costs. There’s a lot of money to be saved by downsizing – but be aware of your changing financial strategy and insurance needs as well.

When it comes to kids, here’s the cold, hard truth: it costs roughly a quarter of a million dollars to raise a child from birth to their 19th birthday. Have you picked your jaw up off the floor yet?

Gambling can be a lot of fun – but it can wreak absolute havoc on your finances if you don’t exercise self-control. Now a new era of gambling is upon us – with the help of modern technology it’s easy for anyone to play a game of blackjack or roulette by simply using his or her smartphone.

Everyone knows how important it is for parents to support what their children are learning in school. This means sitting with them to do homework and making sure they are keeping their grades up.

Here are five things you should know about insurance and how to make sure you have the coverage that is right for you.

Libor is the interest rate banks use worldwide to borrow from each other.

It seems bank credit rating downgrades are the financial headline du jour – and it all kicked off with news of Dutch bank ING Bank of Canada receiving a hit from Moody’s last week. Why are banks the target of such slashings? As usual, European debt crisis is a contributing culprit.

Bring up the topic of cable, Internet or phone companies and you’ll inevitably have hours of conversations that range from, how someone got the best deal to how a customer feels totally ripped off by the high fees.

It’s that wonderful time of year again. When we dig deep into our shoeboxes full of receipts and wait eagerly for official tax documents to arrive in the mail. All to file our tax refund before the end of April. Are you ready for it this year?

CMHC is given permission to insure up to a limit of $600-billion. That threshold is slowly approaching and concerning some mortgage brokers and real estate experts. They say this could adversely affect smaller lenders and consumers in the short to medium term.

Canadians will spend on average $144 million on chocolate and confectionery on Valentine's Day.

Experts will tell you your debt-to-income ratio is one of the best ways to gauge your financial position. The media often quotes the Bank of Canada saying Canadians are at dangerously high levels of debt at 153%. But what does that mean?

Increasingly Canadians looking to buy a house are seeking more information from the professional helping to secure their mortgage. They look to their mortgage expert for good financial advice, guidance and some level of consultation on what most likely is the biggest investment of their lives.

The numbers for Canadians are scary. Only, 1 in 3 have retirement savings, the median value of an RRSP in Canada for those over 55, is only $60,000. On top of this, a mere 1/3 can depend on a work pension after retirement.

What's your holiday budget this year and how do you plan on sticking to it?