🌟 Editor's Note
Hello friend 👋
We are two weeks into 2026! By now, the "New Year hype" usually starts to fade. The gyms are getting a little quieter, and old habits try to sneak back in.
But not here. Not with your money.
This week, we are widening our lens. We’re looking at the start of RRSP Season here in Canada, but also checking in on the global giants that move our markets. Whether you are investing $50 or $5,000 this month, the secret isn't "timing the market"—it's simply showing up.
Keep that momentum going! 🚀
🇨🇦📈 Top Story: Canadian Market Pulse 🇨🇦📈
The "Other" Deadline: Welcome to RRSP Season
What’s Happening: While we just celebrated the TFSA reset on Jan 1st, the Canadian financial world is now pivoting to RRSP Season. You have until March 2, 2026, to contribute to your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) and have it count toward your 2025 tax return.
Why it matters for newcomers: If you earned income in Canada in 2025, you likely built up "RRSP contribution room."
The Strategy: Contributing to an RRSP lowers your taxable income. If you made $80,000 last year and put $5,000 into an RRSP, the CRA taxes you as if you only earned $75,000. This often results in a nice tax refund in the spring.
The Move: Check your "Notice of Assessment" from last year to see your limit. If you are in a high tax bracket, prioritize the RRSP this month. If your income is lower, stick to the TFSA.
🌍🔭 The Global Viewpoint 🌍🔭
US Tech Earnings: The Ripple Effect
What’s Happening: All eyes are turning south of the border as the major US companies (often called the "Magnificent Seven") prepare to report their earnings. When giants like Apple, Microsoft, and Google move, the ripple effect hits the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and your global ETFs (like VFV or XEQT).
Why it matters: The global stock market is currently holding its breath to see if AI (Artificial Intelligence) investments are actually turning into profits.
The Takeaway: Expect some volatility (ups and downs) over the next two weeks. Do not panic if your portfolio swings a little day-to-day. This is normal during earnings season. Stay focused on the long term.
🚀 Stocks on My Radar: Yudara's Watchlist 🕵️♀️ 📊
Curious about specific companies making waves? Here are 2 stocks I'm keeping a close eye on right now, and why they've caught my attention
Alphabet Inc. (GOOGL)
The parent company of Google, YouTube, and Android.
Why I'm Interested: Google remains a dominant force in digital advertising and is aggressively integrating AI (Gemini) into its search and cloud business. While other tech stocks feel "expensive," Google is trading at a valuation that looks reasonable given its massive cash flow.
Morningstar Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★
52-Week High/Low: $340.00 - $140.00
Recent Catalyst: Strong ad revenue forecasts and stabilizing cloud growth have investors looking at GOOGL as a "safe" growth play for 2026.
SPDR® Gold Shares (GLD)
An ETF that tracks the price of gold bullion.
Why I'm Interested: When interest rates stabilize and global tensions rise, investors often flock to Gold as a "safe haven." It doesn't pay dividends like a stock, but it acts as insurance for your portfolio. I’m watching this as a hedge against any potential inflation spikes later this year.
Morningstar Rating: ★ ★ ★
52-Week High/Low: $426.00 - $249.00
Recent Catalyst: Central banks around the world (especially in Asia) are buying record amounts of gold, keeping the price floor high.
Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and not investment advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making investment decisions.
💡 Newcomer Financial Fundamentals
This week's focus: RRSP vs. TFSA (The 30-Second Guide) 🥊
I get asked this every single day: "Yudara, which one is better?" Here is the cheat sheet for 2026:
TFSA (Tax-Free Savings Account):
Best for: Everyone. Especially if you earn less than $55,000/year or are saving for a house (FHSA is best, but TFSA is second).
Benefit: Growth is tax-free. Withdrawals are tax-free.
RRSP (Registered Retirement Savings Plan):
Best for: High earners (typically $80k+).
Benefit: You get a tax break now (refund), but you pay taxes when you withdraw the money (in retirement).
Your Action Tip: If you expect your income to be higher in the future, save your RRSP room for later and max out your TFSA first!
🔥 Community Corner: Connect & Grow! 🤝🌱
Ready to keep building your financial empire in 2026? You don’t have to do it alone. Join the community where we break down these topics daily.
The Newcomer Wealth Community: Join us to unpack and get your specific questions answered. Join our community page! 🧭
Need Personalized Guidance? For those deeper, one-on-one questions about your specific situation (TFSAs, RRSPs, FHSA, RESP, credit cards, or anything else!), I offer personalized 45-minute coaching sessions. Learn more and book your spot! 💬
See you next week!
Warmly,
Yudara Bernard
Founder, Newcomer Wealth
Disclaimer: The information provided in this newsletter is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor for personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances. Investing involves risk.