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U.S.–Iran Strikes Escalate: What It Means for Your Gas Bill and Savings

  ⚡ BREAKING · MAY 8, 2026 By MoneySavings.ca Editorial Team   |  May 8, 2026  |  5 min read The Strait of Hormuz, photographed from space. Approximately 20% of the world's oil supply passes through this narrow waterway. (Image: NASA / Public Domain) American warships were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz on May 7, 2026 — and the U.S. military fired back hard, striking Iranian ports at Qeshm and Bandar Abbas. For Canadians, this isn't just a distant war story. It's a pocketbook issue. 20% of global oil transits the Strait of Hormuz every day $94 projected WTI crude price per barrel if closure continues (CEPR, 2026) 5% of normal shipping traffic still moving through the Strait What Happened — and When The crisis didn't begin overnight. On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes against Iran, targeting nuclear infrastructure and senior military leadership — including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who was killed in the strik...

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Maximizing Retirement Savings: The RRSP to RRIF Transition

 


As retirement approaches, a key financial decision for Canadians is whether to maximize contributions to a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) before converting it into a Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF). Here are the essential considerations:

  • Timing and Tax Benefits: Contributing to your RRSP can provide immediate tax deductions and allow your investments to grow tax-deferred. However, it’s crucial to evaluate whether these tax benefits align with your retirement timeline and income needs.

  • Conversion Deadline: You must convert your RRSP to a RRIF by December 31 of the year you turn 71. This transition is mandatory and marks the shift from accumulating savings to withdrawing income.

  • Withdrawal Strategies: RRIFs require minimum annual withdrawals, which increase with age. Deciding whether to withdraw only the minimum or more depends on your income needs and tax implications.

  • Long-term Financial Planning: Consider your overall retirement strategy, including other income sources like pensions and government benefits. A financial advisor can help tailor your RRSP contributions and RRIF withdrawals to your unique situation.

In conclusion, maximizing your RRSP before conversion can be advantageous, but it should be part of a broader retirement planning process that takes into account your financial goals and tax situation.

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