Retiring early post-pandemic: An expert's advice

Jun 02, 2021

Many people are re-evaluating their retirement plans after COVID-19. When it comes to retiring early there are a lot of things to consider - here’s some advice from a Senior Wealth Advisor....

4 common payment scams to watch out for

Jun 01, 2021

Protect yourself from scams with these tips from Interac. Here are 4 common scams to look out for - and what to do if you encounter them....

What is resilience and how does it affect your life?

May 06, 2021

Learn about what resilience is, how it improves your life, and how you can build up your mental, physical, and financial resilience....

9 fraud prevention tips from Interac

May 05, 2021

With the help of Interac, we’re bringing you 9 fraud prevention tips. COVID-19 has resulted in new types of scams - make sure you know what to look for....

Babies & Money: How to afford the birth of your child

May 03, 2021

Learn how to financially prepare for your new baby. We talk about maternity and parental leave, budgeting, the costs of having a baby, and more....

Build up your financial resilience in 5 steps

Apr 23, 2021

What is financial resilience and how can you build yours? An expert Meridian advisor explains it in 5 simple steps....

Mindfulness and money

Apr 21, 2021

Learn how being mindful about your finances can improve your financial health and help you save more money....

6 questions to ask yourself before buying an investment property

Apr 12, 2021

Thinking of buying an investment property? It’s a bit more complicated than it looks on TV. Before you jump in, ask yourself 6 key questions....

Should you buy a vacation property ahead of retirement?

Apr 12, 2021

If you’re thinking about buying a vacation property now to enjoy later in retirement, ask yourself these key questions to determine how it would fit into your financial plans....

7 simple ways to increase your home's value

Apr 06, 2021

If you’re thinking about selling your home, now is a good time to take on a few simple home improvements that can increase your property value. ...

Should I borrow to contribute to my RRSP?

Apr 01, 2021

An RRSP line of credit or RRSP loan allows you to borrow the money you need to maximize your RRSP contribution. Is it right for you?...

How to prioritize home renovations

Mar 31, 2021

Home renovations can be expensive, so we have some tips on what you should spend your money on first....

Should you downsize when you retire?

Mar 31, 2021

Thinking about downsizing when you retire? It could be a great option for you, but first consider your finances, lifestyle, and expectations. ...

7 money rules you didn't learn in school

Mar 30, 2021

Get back to basics with 7 essential money rules that you probably didn’t learn in school. From budgets to interest to starting conversations about money. ...

5 ways to make your tax refund work for you

Mar 12, 2021

Get the most out of your tax refund this year. Put it to work with these 5 tips - from paying off credit card debt to making sure you’re set for the future....

Protect yourself from frauds and scams related to COVID-19

Mar 05, 2021

During times of crisis fraudsters take advantage of fear, stress, and anxiety. Protect yourself from frauds and scams related to COVID-19. ...

A young couple plan their future

Feb 09, 2021

In this Member Money Matters installment, we talk to a young couple who are saving up for a house and new car, with plans to have a baby in the next 5 years....

How to save money in your 40s

Dec 31, 2020

Check out 6 tips for saving money in your 40s. This is often a complicated time for your finances - so here’s some simple advice for saving, investing, and managing your money....

A 55-year-old TTC driver’s savings journey

Dec 16, 2020

In this Member Money Matters installment, we talk to a 55-year-old TTC driver saving up for retirement and a family trip through Italy. ...

What is a pre-authorized contribution (PAC) plan?

Dec 14, 2020

Learn how to automate your savings with a pre-authorized contribution (PAC) plan. You get peace of mind, faster growth, and more control....

How to get your savings on track

Dec 08, 2020

It’s never too late to start saving! Here are 4 steps to getting your savings plan on track, no matter where you are in life....

How to make a budget in 7 steps

Dec 07, 2020

Wondering how to start budgeting? Follow these 7 steps to create an easy-to-follow budget and keep your finances on track....

Why you need a financial plan right now!

Nov 16, 2020

Dilys D’Cruz discusses the importance of creating a financial plan and how it helps you navigate through major life events....

What to do if you’re the victim of e-Transfer fraud

Nov 13, 2020

One of the most common types of fraud are e-Transfer scams. Here’s how Meridian can help if you are the victim of e-Transfer fraud....

Market pullback? This is the time when financial planning really matters

Oct 26, 2020

It's tempting to panic when the market takes a bad turn. But when you have a solid financial plan, there's no need - learn why....

A 21 year old's journey to financial independence

Oct 16, 2020

In our first Member Money Matters installment, a 21-year-old student and one of our expert advisors start a conversation about financial independence....

Your financial plan needs a personal touch

Oct 16, 2020

A financial advisor can help make complicated finances simple. Learn all about the benefits of personalized advice. ...

Do you know the difference between saving and investing?

Sep 16, 2020

The terms “saving” and “investing” are usually used interchangeably but it’s important to understand the key differences between them. ...

Anne: How early planning paid off

Sep 11, 2020

Anne, a Meridian Member for 40 years, tells us about how learning great savings habits early, making a financial plan, and getting great advice has helped her....

How to set up an emergency savings fund

Sep 04, 2020

What’s an emergency fund? Learn all about why it’s important, what counts as an emergency, how to get started, how much you need, and more. ...

Challenge: Spend a money-free weekend

Sep 03, 2020

Challenge yourself to a money-free weekend - it’s a great way to appreciate what you already have and develop helpful savings habits for the future....

Ask an Advisor - What are some other safe short term investing options right now?

Sep 03, 2020

This week’s Q&A video David Semerak discusses TWO very important savings products: Raise the Rate GIC and the 1-year Cashable GIC. These products will help you invest safety for the short term. Over to you David!...

5 tips for raising financially savvy teenagers

Sep 02, 2020

Wondering how to raise kids with great money sense? Wealth psychology expert Kathleen Burns Kingsbury has some great tips. ...

How do you feel about investing?

Aug 26, 2020

Why do you save money? What keeps you motivated? How do you imagine your future? It’s different for all of us. Your feelings about what’s important shape your decisions. Because investing is personal....

Scott and Chris: staying positive in difficult times

Aug 13, 2020

Scott and Chris had a busy life with work, two kids, and a wedding planned for the summer. Then COVID-19 hit....

What kind of investor are you?

Jul 14, 2020

Find out what kind of investor you are. Understanding your risk tolerance, investment timeline and level of involvement will help you determine what makes sense for you....

Introducing Your Financial Health Score

Jun 29, 2020

Finding out Your Financial Health Score is a great way to build confidence in your money management and learn how to improve....

What are the benefits of banking with a credit union?

Jun 24, 2020

Credit unions like Meridian offers so many advantages, you’ll wonder why it took you so long to say goodbye to your bank. Check out this infographic for a better banking experience!...

Wealth Management Perspectives

Jun 22, 2020

Dilys D’Cruz, Vice President of Wealth, explains the relationship between wealth management and financial wellness, especially during tough times like COVID-19....

Ask an Advisor - What are some good ways to invest in your twenties?

May 19, 2020

This week’s Q&A session is with Jordan Damiani, Senior Wealth Advisor - Niagara. In this session Jordan discusses savings tips for people in their twenties, TFSA contributions and Mutual Funds. Over to you Jordan!...

6 tips if you’ve lost your job due to COVID-19

May 07, 2020

If you’ve lost your job or part of your income as a result of COVID-19, here are 6 tips to help you manage your finances during this challenging time....

Class A Shares

May 06, 2020

Meridian Class A Shares are a type of investment that pay out a great return in the form of dividends, and helps Meridian to raise capital (i.e., money!) to grow and expand. We use this capital to fund things that will improve your Meridian experience and support our local communities....

Raise the Rate GIC

May 01, 2020

Meridian’s Raise the Rate GICs give you a guaranteed return, and let you change your rate if rates go up – so you’ll get the most out of your investment today, and tomorrow....

Manage changing markets with a GIC

Apr 08, 2020

During uncertain times the last thing you want to worry about is losing money on all your investments. We've got tips on weathering these markets with GICs....

How interest rates work and how they affect you

Apr 06, 2020

Changing interest rates can have a big impact on your finances. Understanding how interest rates work, and how they affect your finances can play a big part in reducing stress. ...

8 tips on managing your money during a crisis

Mar 17, 2020

Get advice on managing your money during a crisis like COVID-19 that has a major impact on the market and your money....

Open up and say money!

Mar 02, 2020

Bridging this gender gap begins with raising your voice and discussing finances when it matters most. ...

5 big benefits of mutual funds

Jan 24, 2020

There are lots of benefits to mutual funds - like investing in the stock market, splitting your money between diverse assets, professional management and more....

New year, same money problems?

Jan 21, 2020

Falling behind on your new year’s resolutions? We have some tips on how to prioritize saving, paying off debt, and investing. ...

Six ways to add money to your RRSP

Jan 21, 2020

How do you contribute money to your RRSP when you feel like you have none to spare? Here are six tips to consider....

Are you ready to own your own home?

Jan 09, 2020

How do you know if you're ready for the responsibility of owning your own home? We have some tips. ...

What is an RRIF and how do you use it?

Oct 10, 2019

Learn the basics of RRIFs, including details on withdrawals and taxes. ...

Seven questions to ask before buying a franchise

Sep 27, 2019

Make sure you’re asking the right questions in order to better understand the opportunity a franchise you’re considering can provide....

What does a wealth advisor do?

Sep 27, 2019

Taking control of your finances can start with a simple conversation with one of our wealth advisors. It doesn’t have to be intimidating, it might even be fun! Learn more about what wealth advisors do at Meridian. ...

Tax tips for snowbirds spending time in the U.S.

Sep 23, 2019

If you stay too long south of the border, you might need to file U.S. income tax. Learn about your limits and other considerations. ...

5 reasons to invest with GICs

Aug 15, 2019

GICs are low-risk, easy to customize, and come with great tax benefits. Read more about how adding GICs to your portfolio can help you save more....

Six effective ways to save big on back to school shopping

Jul 30, 2019

Use these tips to get you through one of the biggest shopping seasons of the year....

Everything you need to know about investing in market-linked GICs

Jul 09, 2019

Market-linked GICs have the same benefits as traditional GICs with the added benefit of profiting from the stock market’s performance. Learn more about whether this is the right choice for you. ...

Franchising trends should you be aware of

May 28, 2019

Learn what franchising trends you should be aware of and keep in mind when you’re considering buying a franchise. ...

How strong is your password?

Apr 30, 2019

Passwords ensure the security and confidentiality of your data, which is why it’s important to ensure all of your account passwords are as secure as possible. Check out this infographic for tips on how to create strong passwords to protect your valuable personal information....

Everything you need to know about down payments when purchasing a home

Apr 04, 2019

Understanding down payment rules for a mortgage will bring you one step closer to being a home-buyer....

How much will it cost to sell my home?

Mar 22, 2019

Avoid getting hit with unexpected fees when it’s time to sell your home by keeping these 5 potential costs of closing the deal on your radar. ...

Four reasons to get a TFSA

Jan 09, 2019

TFSAs can help you reach your financial goals, whatever they are. Learn how they work and why you should get one. ...

Pay less tax with a spousal RRSP

Jan 07, 2019

A spousal RRSP can help you and your partner minimize your tax burden. We'll help you understand what a spousal RRSP is, how it works, and the benefits of using one....

Avoiding frauds and scams

Jan 03, 2019

When it comes to locking down your privacy, security and money, common sense is your first line of defense. Be on guard for these common types of scams and frauds – and know what to do if you become a victim....

Top five things you need to know about TFSA's

Dec 27, 2018

By now you probably know that TFSAs are registered accounts where your savings can grow tax free. Yet there are many things you may NOT know about these handy accounts, and this means you could be missing out on a good financial opportunity....

RRSP Basics: What you need to know

Dec 27, 2018

What's an RRSP? How do you contribute and what are the rules? Learn the basics and feel more confident in this investment option....

RESP: The smart way to save for your child's education

Nov 28, 2018

Will you be able to afford your child's education? Learn about how starting an RESP fund early can help you secure their future....

Making the most of RESP grants

Nov 27, 2018

Learn all about how the Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG) program works so that you're better prepared to help your child pay for education....

How much mortgage can I afford?

Oct 23, 2018

Looking for a new home? We’re here to help from start to finish! ...

Five effective ways to quickly pay down school debt

Aug 23, 2018

Lingering student debt can create a number of obstacles as you embark on the next phase of your life....

What you need to know about buying land

Aug 10, 2018

With a little bit of research and the right amount of due diligence, you can avoid unwelcome surprises and find yourself staking claim to your perfect piece of property....

All decked-out: Hidden costs of cottage ownership

Jul 27, 2018

Cottage life can be very appealing, but before you commit, consider these personal practicalities and out-of-pocket costs of pursuing that life of leisure....

Money for your matrimony

May 25, 2018

You're in love and ready to take the plunge into marriage, but you could be starting your life together in a financial hole if you're not adequately prepared....

Si, si, si – Translating YES into your financial planning

May 18, 2018

For many people financial planning may feel like learning another language. There are new concepts, and time required to master how and when to apply them....

How to avoid a financial infidelity

May 11, 2018

Do you have money issues? If you’re honest, you’ll likely answer yes. And, if you have a partner, do they have money issues? Usually, the reply to this second question is met with a much stronger yes!...

Three quick ways to boost GIC returns

May 07, 2018

Learn about innovative and low-risk GIC options that can boost your returns. Options include - GIC Laddering Strategy, Index-linked GIC and Escalator GIC....

Getting credit worthy - how to get your score up

May 03, 2018

If you don’t know your score and have never checked your report, you’re not alone. Most Canadians haven’t either. So, what’s the difference between your score and your report?...

Selecting a payment processor for your business

Apr 04, 2018

If you’re thinking about credit and debit card processing for your business, or if you already accept credit cards and are looking to switch providers, here are some key points to consider....

Planning your business exit

Apr 04, 2018

It might seem strange to be thinking about exiting your business while it’s still in a start-up or growth phase, but the reality is that you’ll step away from it at some point. Here are some helpful tips about pre-planning. ...

Payment options and customer choice

Apr 04, 2018

These days, there are many options available for customers to pay you, and for you to make payments yourself. Online and mobile payments help with that. ...

Managing a seasonal business

Apr 03, 2018

Something that seasonal businesses have in common is that during the year they’ll go through both busy and quiet times. Learn some strategies to make the most of the whole year....

Making your fixed assets work harder

Apr 03, 2018

An asset ratio compares your assets to another part of your business. So, you could be comparing assets to revenue, profit, the number of employees or their salaries....

Is your business operating at a loss?

Mar 26, 2018

In a nutshell, operating at a loss simply means you’re spending more money than you’re making. Learn more about some ways to work through this. ...

Spousal loans – A tax strategy for investors in a low-interest economy

Mar 21, 2018

With interest rates at historic lows, a spousal loan can reduce your household tax bill. Learn more about how it works, and how you can save....

Why women must save and invest differently than men

Mar 16, 2018

The lives of women call for different approaches to saving & investing. Here's a helpful guide to what women should consider when making financial decisions....

Cash flow options for businesses

Feb 28, 2018

There are many good reasons to go into business for yourself, and one of the main – and most obvious – reasons is to make money. And the best way to ensure your business will be profitable is to understand what cash flow is and how best to manage it, so that you can increase it....

Women and money: Five things to know

Feb 26, 2018

Whether by choice or by design, women face more challenging financial circumstances than men. When it comes to women and money, what five things do they need to know?...

Are you ready to start your own business?

Feb 26, 2018

Being your own boss might sound like it is the ultimate ticket to freedom and financial success – and it can be. The reality is that most businesses require a lot of hard work – more than your standard 9–5 job and over a number of years – before they start to make a reasonable profit....

Time to plan your perfect trip

Feb 20, 2018

Don't let your finances get in the way of planning that perfect dream vacation. Let us get you there! That's 'wealth esteem'...

Five tax benefits of RRSPs

Feb 13, 2018

An RRSP is a great way to save for retirement while sheltering your money from taxes. Here are five tax benefits of investing in RRSPs....

The role that credit unions play in the GTA

Oct 26, 2017

Credit Unions of Ontario - The GTA may be home to the big banks and large corporations, but that’s not the real story here. Now more than ever, the dream of a sustainable local economy is being realized through the entrepreneurial spirit of its citizens, ...

Three ways to tax-boost your charitable giving

Sep 07, 2017

Supporting your favourite charities through donations comes with tax benefits. Find out how you can save on taxes through charitable giving....

The Secret to Marriage and Money

Sep 07, 2017

Now that you’ve tied the knot, joint expenses are all influencing your financial future as a couple. These helpful steps can make sure your finances are as harmoniously intertwined as your lives....

Three tips to jump-start your savings as your career gets going

Sep 07, 2017

Smart savings strategies for young savers and the tax benefits of investing in TFSAs and RRSPs....

Thinking of buying a home but don't know where to start?

Aug 22, 2017

We recently interviewed new home owners who discuss why they decided to buy a home, their home buying experience and the best part of owning a home! ...

How to travel the world and buy a home

Aug 18, 2017

Wanting to go on a vacation, but don’t think you can afford it? We’ve talked to Faisal and Sana about what it takes to own their home and still travel the world. Check out their helpful saving tips to get you far! Video created by Two's a Party....

Five things to think about when giving the gift of money

Aug 16, 2017

Money- it's one of those things that everyone needs, but some feel uncomfortable giving as a gift. Sure, you can buy a money holder card, slip some cash inside, sign it and be done. But if you're more of a thoughtful gift giver, here are five handy options that might just fit the bill. ...

How do I choose between a HISA and a GIC?

Aug 03, 2017

Ask yourself these 5 simple questions to understand which saving option, a HISA or a GIC, is right for you....

Financial advice for planning your summer vacation

Jul 14, 2017

Planning a summer vacation? Here's some advice from Dilys D'Cruz....

Canadians and Financial Knowledge

Jul 14, 2017

Gender differences in the financial knowledge of Canadians!...

Should new couples get joint credit?

May 01, 2017

While the decision to get joint credit is a personal one, learning everything you can about getting joint credit will help you and your new partner make the best financial decision for your family....

5 questions couples should ask when merging finances

Oct 26, 2016

Sharing your life also means sharing your finances. Here are five simple questions to help smooth the often-turbulent topic of couples and money....

Teach your kids to start saving with these ten tips

Aug 06, 2016

Here are 10 tips to help you teach kids of all ages how to handle money responsibility, making it simple and fun!...

Four questions to ask before getting a mortgage

Apr 12, 2016

Aside from interest rates, there are a few other important features of mortgages that buyers may overlook when it comes to choosing a mortgage. Here are four things to watch for....

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