Edward Jones - Financial Advisor, Financial Planner: Kevin Birch

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.

05/21/2026

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.

05/18/2026

Edward Jones proudly established a Canadian headquarters in Mississauga in 1994. On behalf of our thousands of associates, happy 181st Victoria Day!

Whether you're firing up the grill, opening the cottage, or simply enjoying a well-deserved break, here's to celebrating community, connection, and the season ahead.

Wishing you a safe and wonderful long weekend!

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.

05/10/2026

To all the mothers who show strength, sacrifice, and unconditional love, today we celebrate you. 💐

This year, women in Canada will control close to half of all accumulated financial wealth – fueled by a $900 billion flow of inheritances over the next decade, according to the Women and Wealth White Paper.

Those who are mothers take on many roles: provider, planner, protector, dreamer. You build futures while caring for the people who matter most. Whether you are saving for education, preparing for retirement, or managing day to day needs, your dedication inspires us.

This Mother’s Day, we honor the love you give and the futures you’re shaping.

To the mothers in our lives and communities: thank you for the legacy you build every day.

Understand the unique financial needs of women. Our advisors are here to help you plan for a secure financial future.

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.

05/07/2026

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

05/02/2026

Earnings are in the driver’s seat. Strong and accelerating corporate profits are offsetting headwinds from higher energy prices, inflation pressures, and central bank uncertainty.

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

05/01/2026

Market ups and downs can feel unsettling, but they're a natural part of investing. When markets dip, it doesn't mean your long-term strategy is broken. It means markets are doing what they've always done: moving in cycles.

Reacting to every market swing can pull you off course. The investors who reach their goals are often the ones who stay focused on what matters most to them, not what's happening this week or this month.

If market volatility is making you second-guess your plan, let's talk. We can review your strategy together and help make sure it still aligns with where you want to go.