These are common mistakes many people make when considering what to do about investing.

Doing Nothing: There is no guarantee that your investments will go up the first day, month, or even year. But there is one guarantee: Doing nothing, will not help provide that comfortable retirement.

Starting Late: Postponing investing is second only to not investing at all. You already know that the earlier you start the better off you are. (Take another look at the compound return example) If you're already 35 or older, we'll reword this pitfall to read: "Not starting now."

Investing Before Paying Down Credit Card Debt: If you have money in the bank and credit card debt, pay off the cards! Many credit cards charge rates of 16% to 21%. It you have $2000 to invest, but you also have $2000 debt on your credit cards with an average annual interest rate of 18%. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that you're going to have to get a 18% net return or $360.00 (net) after taxes, just to break even on that $2000. Pay the debt off first, then think about investing.

Investing for the Short Term: Invest for the long-term unless you're actually going to need the money in the short term. If you'll need the cash next year for a down payment on a home, new car or the family Caribbean cruise, then deposit your money in shorter and safer havens for your cash, such as money market funds or GICS. .

Turning Down Free Money: That's what you're doing if your company offers to match your contribution to a company RRSP or Pension Plan and you're not participating. It's the same as FREE money, so take advantage of all tax-advantaged, employer-matched savings programs.

Play It Safe with Seg Funds: If you're young you have time on your side. If you're not, then it's nice knowing that segregated funds protect part or all of your capital investment; should you be more aggressive in your investments. 

Playing It Scary: We'll help you determine your risk tolerance. Even if you're a daredevil, you shouldn't pour all of your money into something that could end up going down the drain.

Lottery Tickets are NOT Investments: The odds of the lottery providing for you in your latter years (matching 6 of 6 numbers) by winning the Loto 649 are 1 in 13, 983,816. So, don't waste your money. Don't believe me, click here:  Lotto 6/49 Game Information  

Trying ...to Time the Market: We believe the best approach to investing is the long-term one. Pick your investments well and over the long-term you'll reap the rewards. By trying to time the market, you'll potentially miss out on gains that long-term investors enjoy with much less effort.