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5 Things to Know Today: US CPI, BoC Minutes, Oil Below US$90 (Nov. 10)

  Tuesday, November 10, 2026. U.S. inflation data, Bank of Canada minutes and a sharp slide in oil headline your morning. Here is what matters for your wallet. 1. US inflation report lands at 8:30 a.m. ET Economists expect October U.S. consumer prices to rise 0.3% from September, slower than the 0.6% jump the month before, with core prices up 0.2%. There will be no annual rate this time because last year's government shutdown left a gap in the October 2025 data. Strong U.S. jobs numbers on Friday have already pushed the odds of a Fed rate hike on December 9 above 65%. What it means for you: U.S. rate expectations move Canadian bond yields, which set fixed mortgage rates, and they swing the loonie. A hot reading could push yields higher; a cool one could give borrowers a little breathing room. 2. Bank of Canada releases its rate-hike minutes at 1:30 p.m. ET The central bank publishes its summary of deliberations on the October 28 decision, when it raised its policy rate by a qua...
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Navigating Retirement: Converting RRSPs to RRIFs and LIRAs to LIFs

 


As you approach retirement, understanding how to convert your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) to a Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF) and your Locked-In Retirement Account (LIRA) to a Life Income Fund (LIF) becomes crucial. Here’s a concise guide to help you navigate these transitions smoothly.

Converting RRSP to RRIF

By the end of the year you turn 71, you must convert your RRSP into a RRIF. This conversion is mandatory and ensures that your retirement savings start providing you with a steady income. Here are the steps:

  1. Choose a Financial Institution: Select a bank or financial institution to hold your RRIF.
  2. Transfer Funds: Move your RRSP funds into the RRIF. This process is straightforward and can be done with the help of your financial advisor.
  3. Set Withdrawal Schedule: Decide on the frequency of your withdrawals—monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually. Note that there is a minimum amount you must withdraw each year, but no maximum limit.

Converting LIRA to LIF

Similar to RRSPs, LIRAs must be converted by the end of the year you turn 71. LIRAs are typically created from employer pension plans and have restrictions on withdrawals until retirement. Here’s how to convert a LIRA to a LIF:

  1. Select an Insurer or Financial Institution: Choose where you want to hold your LIF.
  2. Transfer Funds: Move your LIRA funds into the LIF. This can be done with the assistance of your financial advisor.
  3. Determine Payment Options: Decide on your payment schedule. Unlike RRIFs, LIFs have both minimum and maximum withdrawal limits to ensure the funds last throughout your retirement.

Key Considerations

  • Tax Implications: Withdrawals from both RRIFs and LIFs are taxable. Plan your withdrawals to manage your tax liabilities effectively.
  • Investment Choices: You can continue to hold investments within your RRIF or LIF, similar to how you managed them in your RRSP or LIRA.
  • Financial Advice: Consulting with a financial advisor can help tailor these conversions to your specific retirement goals and needs.

By understanding these processes and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth transition into retirement, securing a steady income stream for your golden years.


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