Some say “money talks” but many people are uncomfortable talking about money. Family gatherings can provide an opportunity for financial discussions. When you’re done comparing notes on the latest social media trend, consider tackling some of these topics and sharing our resources:

• Are you saving for your future? Read making it easier to save.
• Do you know your credit score? Check your credit score.
• Where would you put extra dollars? Get started with investing.
• Can you handle unexpected expenses? Prepare for financial emergencies.
• Is debt a problem? What to do if you spend more than you earn.
• Do you have a financial advisor? Ask your advisor these questions.
• What phrase can our family use to confirm identity? Avoid AI scams.
• Do you have a plan if something happens to you? Learn about wills and estate planning.

Investing portfolios and festive dessert tables have something in common: both benefit from variety. Serving more than one kind of cookie or selecting a mix of investments is a good idea. Find out more about taking a bite out of diversification.

This time of year, money can start to get tight. A spending plan for presents and charitable giving can help. It’s a good idea to make a list and check it twice. Also learn how to avoid holiday debt. And remember: a useful lesson for young and old is to know the difference between needs and wants.

The OSC’s independent Investor Advisory Panel (IAP) has two new members following a public application process. Daniel Bach and Ian Tam were each appointed for a two-year term starting December 1, 2023.

The reindeers who teased Rudoph were meanly following herd behaviour. A smart investor knows not to follow the crowd. Find out more about this behavioural bias and how it could  impact your investing decisions.

Holidays are a chance for guilt-free screen time. If you’re looking to help your family get smarter about money, while having some couch potato time, consider pushing play on these videos:

• 8 red flags of crypto fraud
• How to avoid AI voice clone scams
• What’s a finfluencer?
• How to spot and avoid grandparent scams
• What is greenwashing?
• Appointing your trusted contact person

This time of year, keeping track of your finances can be extra challenging. Consider enrolling in our free course: Managing your Money 101. You’ll learn about how to budget and save, manage debt, and protect yourself against fraud.

The free course is part of the OSC’s Investing Academy, a new learning channel that lives on GetSmarterAboutMoney.ca. The courses include interactive lessons with videos, quizzes and action tips to help you put knowledge into action. They are available in French and English and can be completed in about an hour, at any time, on mobile or desktop devices.

Recently we relaunched our website GetSmarterAboutMoney.ca. The website changes have been positively received, including feedback from someone who appreciates the enhanced accessibility features: “I have low vision. I am delighted to be able to listen to your articles rather than read them. Greatly appreciated. Please keep it up.”

We’d like to thank all the readers of Investor News, visitors to GetSmarterAboutMoney.ca and everyone who used our investor education resources or attended our OSC in the Community events. Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year.

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