Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Stacie Dore

05/30/2026

Markets closed last week hopeful that a U.S.–Iran peace deal will finally help unwind the shock to global energy markets seen this year, with equities hitting new record highs and bonds rebounding.

How did the markets perform this week? Get the highlights and the latest economic news.

05/29/2026

Most people think of budgeting as managing what's happening right now. But a balanced budget can help do something more important. It creates room for your future.

Finding that little "extra" each month can mean a lot as you move toward reaching your long-term financial goals, like retirement. When you free up even small amounts through smarter spending choices, that money can go toward education savings for your children, building an emergency fund, or contributing more to retirement accounts.

This is where budgeting stops being about restriction and becomes about possibility. It's not just tracking expenses. It's making sure your daily financial decisions support the life you want to build over the next 10, 20, or 30 years.

If you'd like to understand how your day-to-day budget connects to your bigger financial picture, let's have a conversation. I can help you see a path from where you are today to where you want to go.

These considerations can help you get a handle on how you spend money each month.

05/28/2026

One of the most common questions about Old Age Security (OAS) is when to start taking it. The standard age is 65, but you can delay until age 70. Each choice affects how much you receive.

Starting at 65 means you begin receiving income earlier. But if you delay, your monthly payments increase by 0.6% for each month you wait, up to a maximum 36% increase at age 70.

So which option is right for you? It depends on several factors unique to your situation. Your current tax rate matters. If you're still working or have other significant income, delaying might make sense. Your total income matters too, because OAS is subject to a clawback if your income exceeds certain thresholds.

If you're approaching 65 and wondering when to start your OAS, reach out. I can help you evaluate your options based on your personal circumstances.

You asked – we answered! Here are the top 10 questions about Old Age Security (OAS)

05/27/2026

If you're planning to move in with your partner, you might be wondering what a cohabitation agreement actually is. Think of it as a clear, written understanding of how you'll handle finances, property, and responsibilities while living together.

A cohabitation agreement typically covers practical questions like:
• Who's responsible for the mortgage or rent?
• How will you split ongoing bills and utilities? What happens to property you each owned before moving in together, or things you buy jointly?
• How will you handle existing debt, and who's responsible for debt you take on together?

The goal isn't to plan for the worst. It's to create clarity so you can focus on building your life together without financial uncertainty getting in the way.

If you're considering moving in with your partner and want to understand how a cohabitation agreement fits into your broader financial picture, let's talk. I can help you think through the financial decisions that matter most.

Edward Jones financial advisors are not lawyers and cannot provide legal advice. A cohabitation agreement is a legally binding document that should be created with the assistance of a qualified lawyer or legal professional. We can help you understand how your financial decisions today connect to your long-term goals and work alongside your legal advisor to support your overall financial strategy.

Do you need a cohabitation agreement? And if so, what should it include? Before we answer those questions, let's first ask, what is a cohabitation agreement?

05/23/2026

Stocks continue to climb despite rising rates.

How did the markets perform this week? Get the highlights and the latest economic news.

05/21/2026

A balanced family budget isn't about deprivation or cutting everything you enjoy. It's about creating a realistic plan that supports your goals and fits your life.

Start with clear, achievable goals. Build in flexibility for unexpected expenses, because life rarely goes exactly as planned. Review your budget regularly and adjust as your circumstances change. The families who succeed with budgeting are the ones who stay consistent, not perfect.

And remember, you don't have to figure this out alone. Working with an advisor means having someone who can help you review your current situation, refine your goals, and create a strategy that can help keep you on track.

If you're ready to create a budget that works for your family's goals, reach out. I'm here to help.

05/20/2026

Before you commit to helping your child financially with a home purchase, it's worth understanding how this decision might ripple through the rest of your financial picture.

1. Your retirement and savings: Large gifts or loans can influence your long-term savings or retirement goals. If you need to liquidate investments to provide a gift, there could be tax consequences you'll want to plan for.

2. Your credit and borrowing capacity: Co-signing affects your own credit and borrowing ability. It shows up on your credit report and could limit what you can access for your own needs or to help other children down the road.

3. Fairness across your family: If you have multiple children or a blended family, you'll also want to think through fairness considerations. How will you ensure equal treatment over time? What happens if you pass away before you're able to help all your children equally?

4. Documentation and protection: Regardless of which approach you take, clear documentation helps avoid family misunderstandings later. This is especially important if you're loaning money or if there's any possibility of a relationship breakdown in your child's future.

If you're considering helping your child buy a home, reach out. I can help you understand the full financial impact and help make sure this decision supports rather than compromises your own future.

Here’s what to consider

05/16/2026

As we know, markets this year have been robust. In fact, despite near 10% corrections in both the S&P 500 and Canadian TSX in March, and ongoing uncertainty around the Iran war and oil prices, stocks are back near all-time highs.

How did the markets perform this week? Get the highlights and the latest economic news.

05/15/2026

One of the most helpful exercises families can do when budgeting is distinguishing between needs and wants. Your mortgage or rent, groceries, utilities, and transportation costs are essential. They keep your household running.

But wants aren't bad. Dining out, travel, and gifts for family and friends add meaning to life. The key is setting boundaries around them so they don't pull you off course from what's most important to you.

When you prioritize together as a family, you build healthier financial habits. Small adjustments in your discretionary spending can create meaningful savings over time without feeling like deprivation.

If you're looking to align your family's spending with your values and goals, let's talk. We can help you create a budget that reflects what matters most.

These considerations can help you get a handle on how you spend money each month.