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Intel’s Weak Earnings Put Futures on Ice After a Choppy Week

U.S. stock futures lost momentum Friday morning as Wall Street tried to steady itself after several days of sharp swings. Dow futures slipped, while S&P 500 and Nasdaq futures hovered slightly lower, signaling a cautious start to the trading day. The hesitation came largely from Intel’s disappointing earnings report. The chipmaker’s results and weaker outlook weighed heavily on tech sentiment, sending its shares sharply lower in pre‑market trading. Investors had hoped for stronger numbers given the industry’s AI‑driven momentum, but Intel’s update suggested ongoing challenges in key segments like data‑center chips. The broader market has been wrestling with volatility all week, driven by shifting economic expectations and uneven corporate results. With the S&P 500 on track for another weekly decline, traders appear reluctant to make big moves until they see clearer signs of stability.

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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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