Bernard Cooper-Financial Advisor at Edward Jones

06/06/2026

Last week's blowout U.S. payroll report underlined the improvement in the U.S. labour market this year, with hiring accelerating and broadening across sectors, signaling a more durable foundation for growth. Canadian employment data were also surprisingly strong, reversing some of the weakness in hiring this year.

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

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

This past week, I had the privilege of representing Edward Jones at the Canadian Institute of Financial Planners (CIFP) Conference alongside an incredible team.

It was a great opportunity to connect with financial professionals from across Canada, exchange ideas, sharpen our knowledge, and continue learning how we can better serve the clients and communities we work with every day.

One of the things this experience reinforced for me is how grateful I am to be part of Edward Jones. We’re a firm that truly invests in its people through development, collaboration, mentorship, and a culture that puts relationships and long-term impact at the center of what we do.

There’s tremendous opportunity here for financial professionals who are looking to grow their practice, deepen their client relationships, and be part of a firm that genuinely supports their success.

If you’ve ever been curious about the culture at Edward Jones or are considering what the next step in your career could look like, I’d be happy to connect and share more about my experience.

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)

05/23/2026

Stocks continue to climb despite rising rates.

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

05/22/2026

Five years at Edward Jones.

It’s hard to believe how much can happen in five years.

When I look back, I realize it’s not just the markets or the milestones I remember most it’s the people.

I’ve been fortunate enough to help clients prepare for retirement, enter retirement, save for their children’s education, build wealth, and work toward goals that matter deeply to them. I’ve had conversations during exciting moments, stressful moments, uncertain moments, and everything in between.

What makes this career special to me is the relationships. Being able to support people, earn their trust, and grow alongside them has been incredibly rewarding.

I’m thankful to work for a firm that believes in putting clients first and creating an environment where advisors are supported, encouraged, and challenged to grow.

To everyone who has trusted me, supported me, encouraged me, referred someone my way, or simply believed in me over these last five years thank you. I genuinely appreciate it.

Excited for the years ahead

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.

05/16/2026

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.

05/14/2026

Many couples don’t talk about money until they have to. A cohabitation agreement can help you answer the uncomfortable questions early:

Who pays for what? Who owns what? What happens if things change?

It’s like a pre-nup, but for common-law couples. It can help you define expectations, avoid misunderstandings, and make decisions more easily.

If you’re navigating these conversations or want guidance on how financial planning fits into your relationship, reach out. I’m happy to talk through your options and help you feel more confident moving forward.

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.

05/09/2026

While geopolitics continue to dominate headlines, markets have increasingly refocused on underlying economic and earnings fundamentals, pushing U.S. equities to new record highs.

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