“When I started, interest rates were 18% and there were over 100 insurance companies in Canada. It’s a different world now—and the changes weren’t just technical, they were cultural."

Patrick and Ted, in Toronto, on April 9. Short-term, their goals include a major home renovation, international travel, and eventually replacing their car.

Clients with connections to both sides of the border are worried about social security, tariffs being imposed on services, and more.

Lindsay, 64, has a retirement spending goal of $75,000 a year.

How to get the most out of RESP savings

Pension buybacks are especially beneficial when the client’s income is lower and is expected to increase over time.