🌟 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! 🚀
🌍🔭 The Global Viewpoint 🌍🔭
The Business of Gold: Milan-Cortina 2026 Kicks Off
What’s Happening: Next week (Feb 6th), the Winter Olympics officially begin in Milan and Cortina, Italy. While we watch for gold medals, the markets are watching the money. NBCUniversal has reported selling out all advertising slots—a record-breaking feat that hints consumer spending is stronger than the "recession doomers" predicted.
Why it matters: Mega-events like this act as a massive "stress test" for the global economy.
The Ripple Effect: A successful Games often boost consumer sentiment worldwide. Plus, with major sponsors like Visa and Coca-Cola spending heavily, their Q1 earnings reports might get a nice "Olympic Bump."
The Takeaway: Watch the "Experience Economy." People are spending money on doing things (travel, events) rather than just buying things. This is a trend that could define the rest of 2026.
🇨🇦📈 Top Story: Canadian Market Pulse 🇨🇦📈
The "Rate Wait": Bank of Canada Holds Steady
What’s Happening: The Bank of Canada made its first major announcement of the year this morning, deciding to hold interest rates steady. After the cuts we saw late last year, the central bank is taking a "wait and see" approach to ensure inflation stays in that sweet spot (around 2%).
Why it matters for newcomers:
For Borrowers: If you have a variable-rate mortgage or a line of credit, your payments aren't going down this month, but they aren't going up, either. Stability is good.
For Savers: High-interest savings accounts (HISAs) and GICs are still offering decent returns, but they likely won't get any better than this.
The Move: If you have cash sitting in a checking account earning 0%, move it now. Lock in a GIC before rates potentially dip in the spring, or park it in a high-yield savings account like Wealthsimple or Simply Financial, where you can earn a little more interest.
🚀 Stocks on My Radar: Yudara's Watchlist 🕵️♀️ 📊
Curious about specific companies making waves? Here is a stock I'm keeping a close eye on this week, and why it's caught my attention
Tesla Inc. (TSLA)
The AI & Robotics Company (formerly just a car company)
The Update (Earnings Recap)
Tesla reported earnings yesterday, and they beat expectations (EPS of $0.50 vs. expected $0.40). But the real headline isn't the profit. It's the pivot. Elon Musk announced that they are winding down production of the Model S and Model X to free up factory space for the "Optimus" robot and the new Robotaxi fleet.
Why I'm Interested
The market is reacting positively because Tesla is finally treating itself like an AI company rather than a car manufacturer. With "unsupervised" Robotaxi rides now live in Austin (despite some skepticism), the bet for 2026 is entirely on software and robotics, not selling more sedans.
Morningstar Rating: ★ ★ ★
52-Week High/Low: $498.83 - $214.25
Recent Catalyst: The confirmation that the "Cybercab" is taking priority over legacy models has given investors a clear (albeit risky) roadmap for the next 12 months.
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: The "Credit Score" Fresh Start 💳
New year, new... credit score? If you applied for a bunch of credit cards during the holidays to get points, your score might have taken a little hit. Here is the February Fix:
Keep it under 30%: If your credit limit is $1,000, never let your balance cross $300. Even if you pay it off in full! The "snapshot" the bureau takes might catch you at a high balance.
Don't close old cards: Thinking of cancelling that first credit card you got when you landed? Don't. The "age" of your accounts matters. Keep it open, put a Netflix subscription on it, and set it to auto-pay.
Check for errors: It’s free to check your score on Borrowell or Credit Karma. Do it this week to make sure no fraudulent accounts were opened in your name during the holiday rush.
🔥 Community Corner: Connect & Grow! 🤝🌱
"I wish I started sooner." We hear this every day from new investors. The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is today.
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.