Investments Unplugged

Hosts Kevin Headland and Macan Nia recently sat down with John Natale, Head of Tax, Retirement & Estate Planning Services at Manulife, to unpack: • The real world trade offs between registered retirement savings plans (RRSPs) and tax-free savings account (TFSAs); • Why successor holder designations can spare families tax and paperwork; • A time sensitive spousal RRSP contribution opportunity after a death; • Cross border (U.S.) TFSA considerations; • Using segregated funds as a liquidity “cash wedge” after death; and • Why the value of financial advice extends far beyond portfolio returns. Take a listen for practical, plain language insights you can bring to client conversations today.

Some industry predictions may seem outlandish—or even impossible. But does that mean they’re not worth considering? Kick off 2026 with Kevin and Macan, as they explore consensus- defying predictions that may sound absurd, but warrant closer examination. Listen in as they examine the logic behind some of industry's boldest predictions, challenging listeners to rethink what’s truly possible. From a potential 50% surge in gold prices to an S&P 500 Index that could endure a bear market and still finish the year up 20%, our hosts break down the rationale, data, and market dynamics behind each scenario—examining the roles of central bank rate cuts, liquidity, momentum and investor behavior, all while underscoring the importance of diversification in an unpredictable market environment. Tune in for a lively start to 2026—and decide for yourself: are these forecasts improbable, or impossible?

2025 has been nothing short of extraordinary for the short-term investor. Momentum trading, trend-following strategies, AI exuberance, and crypto continue to take center stage. But as the year comes to a close, one question remains: how likely is it that this will continue into the new year? Like a Facebook relationship status—our guests say it’s complicated. In this episode of Investments Unplugged, co-chief investment strategists Kevin Headland and Macan Nia are joined by their cross-border counterparts Emily Roland and Matt Miskin to dig deep into what’s driving markets as we head into 2026. From earnings growth and valuation risks to Fed rate cut prospects, our hosts break down some of the key factors shaping markets— including whether investors can replicate 2025’s strong showing. Tune in for a candid look at what could move the needle for investors in 2026. This is one episode you can’t miss!

The Blue Jays were swinging for the fences, but investors are facing numerous curveballs of their own. In our latest episode of Investments Unplugged, Kevin and Macan step up to the plate to tackle some of the most frequently asked questions from the road: the real impact of the U.S. government shutdown, the rally in gold prices, and what’s really driving bond yields. To add a festive twist, our dynamic hosts also go off- script to share their thoughts on trick-or-treating budgets, Halloween candies, and costume trends. Tune in for recent market developments—and enjoy a few treats along the way.

Policy uncertainty, softening economic data, and shifting market dynamics are raising important questions about the outlook for markets and the economy. Join our dynamic hosts Kevin Headland and Macan Nia as they welcome our very own Chief Investment Officer and Senior Portfolio Manager Nathan Thooft to the podcast for the very first time. In this candid, in-depth conversation, Nathan shares his views on everything from recession risks and tariff impacts to asset allocation, fixed-income strategy, and regional equity market disparities. Additionally, Nathan talks about the growing role of private assets, the evolution of cryptocurrencies, and the rise of artificial intelligence in the asset management industry. Don’t miss out on this exclusive sit-down with the head of our Multi-Asset Solutions Team.