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The Canada Strong Fund — Invest Like the Government

  Published on MoneySavings.ca | Personal Finance | May 2026 Imagine being able to put your savings into the same fund the federal government is betting $25 billion on. For the first time in Canadian history, that's exactly what Ottawa is offering you — a front-row seat (and a direct stake) in the country's biggest nation-building push in generations. On April 28, 2026, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Canada's first national sovereign wealth fund — the Canada Strong Fund. It's a bold, headline-grabbing idea: let everyday Canadians invest directly alongside the government in the ports, pipelines, mines, and infrastructure projects shaping our economic future. But before you start redirecting your TFSA contributions, let's break down exactly what this fund is, what it promises, what it costs — and whether it might belong in your financial plan. What Is the Canada Strong Fund? A sovereign wealth fund is a state-owned investment vehicle. Countries like Norw...
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Banks face challenges as fiscal year ends

                                     

The fiscal year 2023 has been a tough one for Canada’s major banks, as they faced rising costs, regulatory pressures and credit risks. Analysts expect their fourth-quarter earnings, which will be reported this week, to show a decline from last year.

Some of the challenges that the banks encountered this year include:

  • Cost-cutting measures: Some banks, such as RBC and Scotiabank, have reduced their work force and real estate holdings to lower their expenses. Others, such as BMO, have completed or planned major integrations of their acquisitions.
  • Regulatory scrutiny: TD Bank is awaiting the outcome of investigations by U.S. authorities over its anti-money-laundering practices, which could result in fines or other penalties. RBC’s proposed takeover of HSBC’s Canadian unit has also faced opposition from political and environmental groups.
  • Credit risks: As interest rates rise and inflation persists, the banks have increased their provisions for potential loan losses, anticipating higher defaults from their borrowers. The banks are also required to hold more capital by the banking watchdog, OSFI, to cushion against an economic downturn.
  • Slow loan growth: The demand for lending has been dampened by the high cost of borrowing and the uncertainty over the economic recovery. The banks have also faced stiff competition from fintechs and other non-bank lenders, who offer more convenient and cheaper alternatives.

Despite these headwinds, the banks are still well-positioned to weather the storm, as they have strong capital ratios, diversified businesses and loyal customers. The banks are also investing in digital transformation, innovation and growth opportunities, especially in international markets. Analysts and investors will be looking for signs of resilience and optimism from the banks as they wrap up the fiscal year.

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