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Three Smart Levers to Cut Your 2025 Tax Bill

Taxes are inevitable, but overpaying them isn’t. With new rules and opportunities in 2025, smart planning can help you keep more of your hard-earned money. Here are three effective levers to reduce your tax liability this year: 1. Maximize Retirement Contributions Contributing to retirement accounts such as RRSPs (Canada) or 401(k)/IRAs (U.S.) remains one of the most effective ways to lower taxable income. Contributions qualify for tax relief at your highest marginal rate, meaning every dollar you save reduces your tax bill significantly. Employer-matching programs make this even more attractive, and withdrawals in retirement can be structured for lower tax exposure. 2. Leverage Tax Credits and Deductions Common deductions include childcare expenses, education costs, and home office claims. Tax credits, unlike deductions, directly reduce the amount you owe, making them especially valuable. Temporary tax breaks introduced in 2025 can be maximized before they expire. 3. Use...

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Putin Proposes Meeting with Trump to Discuss Ukraine War and Energy Prices

In a recent statement, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his desire to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss the ongoing Ukraine war and energy prices. Putin emphasized the importance of addressing these issues, which have been highlighted by Trump in the early days of his new administration.

Putin acknowledged that serious peace talks with Ukraine would be challenging unless the West pressured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to cancel a 2022 decree that bars negotiations with the Russian leader. He described Trump as smart and pragmatic, and expressed hope that a meeting could lead to constructive discussions on matters of mutual interest.

Trump, who was recently sworn in for a second, non-consecutive term, has also expressed his willingness to meet with Putin and seek an early end to the conflict. He has criticized the war as "ridiculous" and damaging to Russia's economy.

The proposed meeting marks a significant shift in the Kremlin's approach, as there has been little high-level contact with Western leaders due to the war in Ukraine. Both leaders have indicated their readiness to work together, with Putin noting his "pragmatic and trusting" relationship with Trump.

The potential summit could address various issues, including arms control and energy, given that both countries are major oil producers and consumers. Putin highlighted the need for stable oil prices, which are crucial for both economies.

As the world watches closely, the outcome of this proposed meeting could have far-reaching implications for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and global energy markets.

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