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Vancouver Budget Balances Books Without Tax Hike

Vancouver city council approved a 2026 budget, which includes a freeze on municipal property taxes. Vancouver City Council has approved a new budget that pledges no increase in property taxes, a move welcomed by many residents facing rising living costs. However, the financial plan comes with significant trade-offs: millions of dollars will be cut from arts programs, park services, and other community initiatives. City officials argue the budget reflects a commitment to fiscal responsibility while easing pressure on households. Critics, however, warn that reductions in cultural and recreational funding could erode the city’s vibrancy and limit access to public spaces. The decision highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing affordability with investment in community life. As Vancouver grows, the debate over how to fund essential services without raising taxes is likely to intensify.
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Tips for building your 2024 investment plan


As we enter the new year, it’s a good time to reevaluate your investment strategies and prepare for the evolving market conditions. Here are some tips to help you build a successful investment plan for 2024:

  • Reevaluate your investment strategies: Experts suggest that now is a good time to reevaluate your investment strategies and prepare for the evolving market conditions. Although Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem has said it is too early to consider rate cuts, the central bank could begin cutting interest rates as early as April or May, according to forecasts from TD. Falling interest rates will be the story of 2024, so it’s important to invest accordingly.
  • Consider low-cost dividend-focused index funds: Investing in low-cost dividend-focused index funds can help you generate passive income at a low cost for life.
  • Be cautious with GICs: Last year, many investors chose to park money in savings or a short-term Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC), earning risk-free returns of 5 per cent or more. Although it was an effective strategy in a high-interest-rate environment, GIC rates are already falling, and completely opposite market forces are starting to take shape. Canadians looking to simply protect their cash in 2024 could be in for a “rough year,” potentially missing out on greater gains elsewhere.
  • Prepare for the evolving market conditions: With the market conditions evolving, it’s important to prepare for the changes. Falling interest rates will be the story of 2024, so it’s important to invest accordingly.


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