It’s Halloween week, and this year I’m officially back on pumpkin duty.
For the past few years, my father-in-law has saved me by dropping off three perfectly carved masterpieces a few days before Halloween. But this year, he gave me fair warning: he’s retired from the carving business.
So, the pressure was on Dad to step up.
Let’s just say there’s a reason I’m only sharing a photo of me carving the pumpkin — not the final result. 😉
Still, my kids are thrilled that Halloween lands on a Friday this year. It’s always a fun night in our neighbourhood, and I’m looking forward to it too.
Trick or Treat… For Your Wallet?
This morning, the Bank of Canada announced it’s lowering its key interest rate by 0.25%, bringing the prime rate to 4.45%.
For many, that feels like a treat — a bit of relief and optimism.
But here’s the trick: this cut isn’t a celebration. It’s a signal.
A signal that the economy is struggling — growth is slowing, unemployment is creeping up, and business investment is weak.
Even Governor Tiff Macklem admitted during today’s press conference:
“What’s most concerning is that unless we change some other things, our standard of living as a country — as Canadians — is going to be lower than it otherwise would have been.”
That line hit me.
Because behind the technical talk about inflation and GDP, what he’s really saying is: the old system isn’t working the way it used to.
The New Game Continues
This is exactly what we’ve been talking about in these emails.
Uncertainty is the new normal.
And while many people see this rate cut as good news, and for some, it is — it’s also proof that we’re operating in a new kind of economy. One where the playbook is constantly being rewritten.
If you’re still following traditional advice — “pay off everything,” “avoid all debt,” “keep your savings safe in cash” — you’re missing how the system actually works today.
Those who understand how to use leverage, how to own real assets, and how to stay nimble — they’re the ones turning this uncertainty into opportunity.
The rest? They’re waiting for things to “go back to normal.”
But normal isn’t coming back.
So, as you hand out candy (or maybe sneak a few pieces yourself) this Friday, remember this:
The rate cut might feel like a treat — but the trick is realizing that you can’t rely on old thinking to navigate what’s coming next.
If you want to make sure, you’re positioned on the right side of this new game, let’s talk.
Talk soon,
Vince
P.S. If your financial plan still relies on the same rules, you learned a decade ago, it’s time for an update. The game has changed and it’s not waiting for anyone to catch up.
