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The Canada Strong Fund — Invest Like the Government

  Published on MoneySavings.ca | Personal Finance | May 2026 Imagine being able to put your savings into the same fund the federal government is betting $25 billion on. For the first time in Canadian history, that's exactly what Ottawa is offering you — a front-row seat (and a direct stake) in the country's biggest nation-building push in generations. On April 28, 2026, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Canada's first national sovereign wealth fund — the Canada Strong Fund. It's a bold, headline-grabbing idea: let everyday Canadians invest directly alongside the government in the ports, pipelines, mines, and infrastructure projects shaping our economic future. But before you start redirecting your TFSA contributions, let's break down exactly what this fund is, what it promises, what it costs — and whether it might belong in your financial plan. What Is the Canada Strong Fund? A sovereign wealth fund is a state-owned investment vehicle. Countries like Norw...

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Can You Write Off Home Renovations in Canada?


When it comes to home renovations in Canada, the tax landscape can be a bit narrow for existing homeowners. However, there are still some key considerations to keep in mind:

  1. Principal Residence Exemption: This is the big one. When you sell your primary home, the principal residence exemption allows you to avoid capital gains tax. But beware! As of January 1, 2023, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) tightened the rules. Housing units sold after less than a year of ownership are now excluded, with certain exceptions like death and disability. So, watch out for those anti-flipping rules!

  2. Profit Shielding: Unlike the United States, Canada doesn’t cap the amount of profit shielded from taxes. Existing homeowners rely on their homes as a store of value for retirement, and any significant shift in tax policy would be a political nightmare.

  3. First Home Savings Account (FHSA): If you’re a future buyer, the FHSA is your friend. It’s like a slam dunk for first-time homebuyers. Contributions are tax-free on the way in (similar to an RRSP) and tax-free on the way out (like a TFSA). You can contribute up to $8,000 annually, up to $40,000 over a lifetime. Just remember, unused contribution room doesn’t carry forward indefinitely.

  4. Renovation Benefits: Unfortunately, for current homeowners thinking about renovating, the federal tax benefit buffet is pretty sparse. But don’t lose hope—there are other avenues to explore, such as provincial home renovation tax credits and specific programs.

In summary, while the tax breaks for home renovations may not be as generous as we’d like, strategic planning and understanding the rules can still make a difference. Whether you’re sprucing up your kitchen or adding that dream deck, keep these factors in mind as you navigate the world of home improvements.

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