Investing Amidst Chaos: A Look at My Portfolios and Recent Decision

It's been a while since I last posted. September was a whirlwind month for me in Montreal. I thoroughly enjoyed the warm weather and made the most of it by spending a lot of time at the pool. However, work kept me incredibly busy during that time, with many extra hours logged. My typical day involved finishing work at 5 p.m., taking a quick break at the pool or doing something else, and then returning to work for another 1 to 3 hours. These long days left me with little time for blogging, but I've remained quite active on Twitter. If you haven't already, please follow me there. I'm on a mission to reach 5 million impressions within 3 months to monetize my account.

In August, I spent the entire month in New Brunswick, and now I find myself back there again. I'll be returning to Montreal in mid-November, just in time for a dermatologist appointment. Initially, I expected the procedure to cost around $2,000, but it turns out it will be $1,149.75, excluding the $250 initial consultation fee. This 30-minute procedure isn't related to Botox or fillers; it's a small yet costly intervention to address some skin issues.

Since I didn't spend as much as expected, I decided to invest in an eReader. While I prefer physical books, I've been wanting an eReader for a while now. When I visit my family in New Brunswick, which is quite often, I don't have access to the wide variety of books I want to read like I do in Montreal. This can be frustrating for me, as I read almost every day, and not being able to access a specific book when I want can be quite vexing. An eReader, particularly a Kobo which is compatible with Canadian libraries, is a game-changer. The BAnQ offers a vast selection of online books that I can borrow, even while I'm in New Brunswick. Currently, I'm working my way through all of Paul Auster's books, and one of his, "4321," is quite massive. Having the convenience of accessing the book online instead of lugging around a heavy tome between provinces makes reading more enjoyable for me.

The TSX has been quite volatile lately, closing at 19,020.92 points today. At one point during the day, it even dipped below 19,000 points, hitting as low as 18,945.79 points. I'm currently on vacation, so I'm observing all this from a distance. It's hunting season in New Brunswick, and with the TSX at 19,020.92 points, my non-registered portfolio closed the day at $128,155.97, my US portfolio at $4,961.20, my RRSP stock-only portfolio at $58,621.27, and my TFSA portfolio at $120,618.32. My numbers are obviously lower, which isn't fun, but it's the reality. What matters most to me is keeping my margin account in good shape.

I have a margin account linked to my non-registered portfolio, which is currently worth $128,155.97. As of yesterday, I had $59,565 available on my margin, providing a safety buffer against a margin call. This is crucial to me as I aim to avoid any financial worries. These days, I'm away from my laptop, making it challenging to manage any potential issues. I'm fully immersed in enjoying the hunting season in New Brunswick.

Today, I managed to make investments in a few stocks that are already part of my investment portfolio, including Brookfield Asset Management Inc. Class A Limited Voting Shares (BAM.A), Royal Bank of Canada (RY), National Bank of Canada (NA), Alaris Equity Partners Income Trust (AD.UN), Ag Growth International Inc. (AFN), Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD), BCE Inc. (BCE), Canadian Imperial Bank Of Commerce (CM), and Telus Corp (T).

I would like to invest a bit more, but for now, I think these additions will suffice. I'm also considering investments in A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund (AW.UN), Hamilton Enhanced U.S. Covered Call ETF (HYLD), and TMX Group Limited (X).

Beyond Finance: My Dental Health Journey

The TSX closed with a very strong 20,330.32 points. My non-registered portfolio closed at $136,332.91, my US portfolio at $5,287.45 US, my RRSP stocks-only portfolio at $64,029.23, and my TFSA portfolio at $130,293.48. My numbers are slightly lower than on August 11, so I estimate my net worth is around $365,000. My margin debt now stands at $26,770.80.

I previously mentioned on Twitter/X (you should follow me here!) that I would be writing a post about dental care, but it won't be the type of post you might expect. So, here I go!

If you have a sensitive soul or anything of that nature, you might prefer to skip what will follow below. Personally, I wanted to share, just in case someone out there may have had the same behavior as I did before I started going to the dentist.

I went many, many years without going to the dentist - not a good thing to do, I know that - but I kind of have an aversion to health practitioners, and that is in every field. I guess it's a trust issue. I always took great care of my teeth, but probably didn't floss often enough - I do that more regularly now. So, like I said, I spent many years without going to the dentist, but I never had a problem, no cavities whatsoever, nothing. Actually, my problems began when, after all those years, I decided to pay a visit to a dentist in downtown Montreal. I decided it was time that I took advantage of the insurance I had at work, and so I did.

Since I wasn't flossing regularly enough, I transformed myself into a vampire. My gums were bleeding. I was asked if I was flossing, to which I answered - very honestly - no, I am more or less flossing. That way, the hygienist got a clear picture of what kind of patient I was... I learned that flossing was very important, and, on the same occasion, that two of my wisdom teeth needed to be removed because one of the two was developing a cavity. I had a really hard time believing it since I wasn't experiencing any pain, so I decided to get confirmation from a second dentist - no way I was going to have two big teeth removed just for the heck of it...

If the dentist was willing to make money on my back, she was going to be surprised! So I went to a second dentist, asked for his opinion, and unfortunately, he said the same thing. Two wisdom teeth needed to be removed because one of them was developing a cavity, and sooner or later, I was going to experience pain. So I asked, "Okay, but why can we not only have the wisdom teeth with the cavity removed? Why do both need to be removed?" The response was, "It's to balance the mouth." So I went back to the first dentist I saw and told them that, yeah, I was going to have those two upper teeth removed... It went well. I was amazed by the strength of the dentist; she's a slim, petite woman, but she's strong! She graciously pulled out those two big teeth without any problems. I got painkillers that worked wonderfully well, and I didn't have any issues.

Later on, another dental issue I faced was the replacement of my fillings. When I was a kid, we ate well, weren't big on junk food, but we drank soft drinks, Kool-Aid, and juice with a lot of sugar. Eventually, all my adult teeth got filled due to cavities. I had black fillings on almost all my teeth, which had been there for many years. Gradually, I had my black fillings replaced with white ones. It's not just an aesthetic concern; after a while, fillings may need replacement to prevent them from damaging the teeth. Unfortunately, black fillings were more durable than the white ones, but they are no longer used. Now, I have all my fillings replaced with white ones. Another good reason to visit a dentist: to have those fillings checked out.

Growing up in New Brunswick wasn't always easy; it was very difficult to find jobs, and getting a summer job was always an achievement. It was a frustrating situation, and the distress and stress that I felt - I think - affected the way I brushed my teeth. Over the years, I have developed gum recession. I am now fully aware of that problem, and I go extra gently when I brush my teeth. For now, that problem is under control. You need to see a dentist for any gum recession problem; only a specialist will be able to tell if you need a gum transplant or not. In my case, I was told I had good gum health, and I could stay the way I am for the present time...

On my most recent dentist visit a few months ago, I was recommended to undergo a specific type of radiography because something had been observed on my jaw. I was asked if I felt any pain, which I didn't. This radiography wasn't covered by my insurance and cost me $300. The radiography was sent to a specialist.

A few days ago, my dentist called me for a follow-up on that matter, explaining that the radiography needed to be sent to another specialist. According to the first one, I had a benign tumor on my jaw, and a biopsy may need to be performed. It's not something that really upset or scared me. I wouldn't like to get a biopsy because, in my opinion, it could trigger the tumor and turn it into cancer...

One problem that I am facing is that if the tumor keeps growing, I could lose my teeth and - I guess - some bone structures. It's the only reason why I am letting my dentist move forward with a specialist. I was asked for my Quebec medical health card, so I assume the biopsy and everything else will be covered by Quebec medical; I don't know more at this point.

The only reason why I am sharing this with you is for you to know that a visit to the dentist includes much more than your teeth; your dentist can also detect any mouth-related cancer. I know it sounds very weird, but jaw cancer exists; it's a form of cancer. In case you're wondering, I never smoked, and I don't smoke green either. I guess I've just been really lucky!

My debt situation on date of August 11, 2023

 Margin Account Debt: $26,163.79 at 8.50%

Annual Interest: $2,223.92

As of August 11, 2023

For a complete update on my debt situation, please click on the label "Debt Situation" located in the right column of this blog.

Slowly Turning the Page on Debt: My Net Worth Journey to $367,685.60 with a Margin Debt of $26,163.79

Last Friday, the TSX concluded its session at a solid 20,407.57 points. Inspired by this, I took the opportunity to reassess my investment portfolio, gauging my progress after numerous payments chipped away at my margin debt. Encouragingly, I observed significant gains. With my net worth now at $367,685.60, I find myself in close proximity to my all-time highest net worth of $373,150.19, achieved just a few months ago in April of this year. I had updated my investment portfolio, as well as my net worth sheet. It would certainly be delightful if I could reclaim the $373,000 mark in time for my upcoming birthday. After all, as they say, "nothing is impossible."

During this recent Friday, I decided to divest some of the shares I held within my TFSA, specifically the JFT Strategies Fund Class A Units (JFS.UN), in order to make strides in paying down my margin debt. Additionally, I initiated a transfer of $500 from my latest paycheck to contribute towards this effort. Consequently, these combined payments have effectively reduced my margin debt to $26,163.79. My projections are optimistic, as I contemplate the possibility of lowering this debt to the $19,000 range by the close of 2023. While $19,000 remains a substantial sum, I can envision a feasible path to settling this within a year's time, or possibly even sooner if I commit wholeheartedly. 

This leads me to believe that I will likely achieve debt-free status by sometime in 2024, with less strain than anticipated. The practicality of this plan has instilled confidence in me, and I am gratified by my decision to part with a portion of my JFS.UN investment, a choice that now seems pivotal. I am genuinely emboldened by the conviction that attaining this goal is well within my reach. It's quite a pleasant feeling, especially considering that small debt had been weighing on me for a while now.

Even though I have retained some JFT Strategies Fund Class A Units (JFS.UN) within both my TFSA and RRSP portfolios, I deemed it prudent to sell off a portion of my JFS.UN units to mitigate my margin account debt. This strategy aligns well with my goals, as I can always re-invest in JFS.UN units down the line, if I choose to. The absence of dividend distribution from JFT Strategies Fund Class A Units (JFS.UN) played a role in guiding my decision to divest partially from my TFSA holdings. Furthermore, the consistent stability in the value of JFT Strategies Fund Class A Units (JFS.UN) affords me the confidence that re-entry into this fund will be straightforward in the future.

Historic of my Total assets and Net worth values on date of August 11, 2023

2023

Total in assets: $393,849.39/Net worth: $367,685.60: August 11, 2023

Total in assets: $397,595.65/Net worth: $361,500.59: July 18, 2023

Total in assets: $416,472.91/Net worth: $370,235.74: May 6, 2023

Total in assets: $419,167.77/Net worth: $373,150.19: April 21, 2023 - MY HIGHEST NET WORTH EVER 

Total in assets: $416,945.17/Net worth: $370,829.18: April 13, 2023 - first time I am in the 370k net worth

Total in assets: $415,945.38/Net worth: $369,820.54: April 11, 2023

Total in assets: $413,311.52/Net worth: $366,524.01: February 13, 2023

Total in assets: $411,186.99/Net worth: $364,399.48: February 10, 2023

Total in assets: $408,656.95/Net worth: $361,844.12: February 7, 2023

Total in assets: $407,606.87/Net worth: $361,043.28: January 17, 2023

Total in assets: $405,708.89/Net worth: $359,060.31: January 16, 2023

Total in assets: $404,983.22/Net worth: $358,324.64: January 13, 2023

Total in assets: $403,429.72/Net worth: $356,771.14: January 12, 2023

Total in assets: $399,232.95/Net worth: $352,574.37: January 11, 2023

Total in assets: $396,629.76/Net worth $349,971.18: January 10, 2023

Total in assets: $395,568.27/Net worth $348,909.69: January 9, 2023
Total in assets: $393,444.59/Net worth $346,786.01: January 6, 2023

2022

Total in assets: $384,602.29/Net worth $337,875.65: December 30, 2022

Total in assets: $394,205.35/Net worth $347,621.02: November 25, 2022

Total in assets: $383,659.43/Net worth $337,227.95: November 11, 2022

Total in assets: $373,493.10/Net worth $327,061.62: November 4, 2022

Total in assets: $356,147.14/Net worth $309,920.82: October 11, 2022

Total in assets: $396,620.95/Net worth $350,590.82: August 14, 2022

Total in assets: $369,523.83/Net worth $323,815.43: June 24, 2022

Total in assets: $367,287.71/Net worth $321,579.31: June 20, 2022

Total in assets: $364,145.55/Net worth $318,437.15: June 18, 2022

Total in assets: $398,010.84/Net worth $352,164.94: June 2, 2022

Total in assets: $385,843.39/Net worth  May 20, 2022: $340,156.47

Total in assets: $407,547.23/Net worth $361,442.42: April 20, 2022 

Total in assets: $405,658.35/Net worth $358,941.11: March 29, 2022

Total in assets: $403,792.28/Net worth $357,075.04: March 25, 2022

Total in assets: $402,081.01/Net worth $355,363.77: March 22, 2022

Total in assets: $400,979.64/Net worth $354,262.40: March 21, 2022 - First time I ever hit on the $400,000 in total assets!

Total in assets: $398,652.13/Net worth $352,071.24: March 18, 2022 - First time I ever hit on the $350,000 in net worth value!

Total in assets: $396,355.91/Net worth $349,713.01: March 10, 2022

Total in assets: $393,037.13/Net worth: $347,573.53: March 4, 2022

Total in assets: $391,766.36/Net worth: $345,622.80: February 9, 2022

Total in assets: $382,726.19/Net worth: $341,862.36: February 2, 2022

Total in assets: $386,320.32/Net worth: $340,128.37: February 1st, 2022

2021

Total in assets: $385,979.66/Net worth: $339,434.39: December 31, 2021

Total in assets: $382,726.19/Net worth: $336,268.16: December 23, 2021

Total in assets: $388,421.37/Net worth: $340,312.77 - FIRST TIME I EVER REACHED A $340,000 NET WORTH!
November 8, 2021

Total in assets: $387,068.51/Net worth: $338,959.91: November 5, 2021

Total in assets: $384,785.92/Net worth: $336,781.52: October 20, 2021

Total in assets: $382,580.80/Net worth: $334,576.40: October 19, 2021

Total in assets: $379,263.95/Net worth: $330,680.17: October 14, 2021

Total in assets: $364,072.52/Net worth: $315,407.64: July 26, 2021
Total in assets: $358,867.59/Net worth: $311,858.22: June 15, 2021
Total in assets: $354,774.64/Net worth: $307,559.30: June 10, 2021
Total in assets: $348,042.77/Net worth: $300,799.45 - FIRST TIME I EVER REACHED 300k in net worth, on May 26, 2021
Total in assets: $346,583.88/Net worth: $298,486.93: May 20, 2021
Total in assets: $349,651.45/Net worth: $298,435.31: May 7, 2021
Total in assets: $347,002.53/Net worth: $297,614.64: April 16, 2021
Total in assets: $338,188.16/Net worth: $287,914.75: March 11, 2021
Total in assets: $333,970.92/Net worth: $283,675.99: March 9, 2021
Total in assets: $328,881.12/Net worth: $279,611.57: February 10, 2021
Total in assets: $326,670.02/Net worth: $278,758.37: February 8, 2021
Total in assets: $324,891.52/Net worth: $276,979.87: February 4, 2021
Total in assets: $322,236.52/Net worth: $274,318.36: February 3, 2021
Total in assets: $327,639.01/Net worth: $274,298.23: January 19, 2021
Total in assets: $316,192.85/Net worth: $268,180.14: January 7, 2021
Total in assets: $313,003.95/Net worth: $264,915.22: January 6, 2021
Total in assets: $310,587.36/Net worth: $262,498.63: January 5, 2021

2020
Total in assets: $310,392.38/Net worth: $259,661.24: December 31, 2020
Total in assets: $307,812.05/Net worth: $259,070.79: December 24, 2020
Total in assets: $306,444.25/Net worth: $258,948.73: December 4, 2020
Total in assets: $304,701.39/Net worth: $257,331.58: November 27, 2020
Total in assets: $300,956.84/Net worth: $253,587.03: November 24, 2020
Total in assets: $298,903.01/Net worth: $251,533.20: November 23, 2020
Total in assets: $296,643.60/Net worth: $249,158.71: November 20, 2020
Total in assets: $294,514.87/Net worth: $247,145.87: November 11, 2020
Total in assets: $291,172.40/Net worth: $243,802.59: November 10, 2020
Total in assets: $287 803.13/Net worth: $240 433.32: November 9, 2020
Total in assets: $277,872.92/Net worth: $226,678.26: August 5, 2020
Total in assets: $276,627.27/Net worth: $227,745.47: June 6, 2020
Total in assets: $263,304.63/Net worth: $211,395.63: April 29, 2020
Total in assets: $241 461,13/Net worth: $194 558,29: March 13, 2020
Total in assets: $282,640.61/Net worth: $235,284.72: February 21, 2020
Total in assets: $304,955.72/Net worth: $257,187.44: February 12, 2020
Total in assets: $296,200.07/Net worth: $250,595: January 16, 2020
Total in assets: $292,715.58/Net worth: $244,970.41: January 9, 2020

2019
Total in assets: $288,237.52/Net worth: $239,582.44: December 31, 2019
Total in assets: $278,823.27/Net worth: $230,902.04: September 17, 2019
Total in assets: $271,896.19/Net worth: 226,137.05: June 24, 2019
Total in assets: $269 950.21/Net worth: $222 942.87: April 5, 2019
Total in assets: $251 634.94/Net worth: $206 278.84: January 18, 2019
Total in assets: $238 656.07/Net worth: $191 009.83: January 4, 2019

2018
Total in assets: $270 679.86/Net worth: $204 306.57: November 16, 2018
Total in assets: $332 750.88/Net worth: $232 609.15: August 3, 2018
Total in assets: $331 413.83/Net worth: $232 280.40: June 20, 2018
Total in assets: $326 085.75/Net worth: $226 801.92: June 3, 2018
Total in assets: $322 479.23/Net worth: $222 850.15: May 4, 2018
Total in assets: $319 644.86/Net worth: $217 246.23: March 16, 2018

2017
Total in assets: $318 544.64/Net worth: $221 989.65: December 29, 2017
Net worth on the date of November 17, 2017: $211 430.89
Net worth on the date of October 27, 2017: $212 633.39
Net worth on the date of September 29, 2017: $206 352.49
Net worth on the date of April 24, 2017: $204 277.66
Net worth on the date of March 31, 2017: $200 325.69
Net worth on the date of March 29, 2017: $198 299.73
Net worth on the date of March 18, 2017: $193 969.21

2016
Net worth on the date of December 30, 2016: $184 074.35

Net worth after debt on the date of January 1, 2014:
$101 172.99 (yes, finally, IN NET WORTH!).

On the date of February 16, 2011, the TMX hit 14 000+ points, and I exceeded the 150k in assets! (Not net worth yet).

On September 9, 2010, I reached $100,000 in assets! (not in net worth yet).

On the date of August 5, 2009, I reached my investment goal: I reached $50 000 worth of assets! (NOW, net worth).

On the date of December 5, 2009, I had exceeded $60 000 in assets! (not in net worth yet).  

My investment portfolio on date of August 11, 2023

Cold cash: $2,577.77

Stocks and Units investment portfolio $CAN 

Bank of Nova Scotia (BNS)

Methanex Corporation (MX)

Fortis Inc. (FTS)

Pembina Pipeline Corporation (PPL)

iShares S&P/TSX Capped REIT Index (XRE)

New Flyer Industries Inc. (NFI)

TMX Group Inc. (X)

K-Bro Linen Inc. (KBL)

TransCanada Corp (TRP)

Canadian National Railway Co (CNR)

Enbridge Inc. (ENB)

Emera Inc. (EMA)

Loblaw Companies (L)

Savaria Corporation (SIS)

WSP Global Inc. (WSP)

George Weston Limited (WN)

Power Corporation of Canada Subordinate Voting Shares (POW)

Brookfield Asset Management Inc. Class A Limited Voting Shares (BAM.A)

TOTAL: $138,022.31  

Stocks and Units investment portfolio $US:

Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK.B)

General Mills Inc. (GIS)

Vanguard Russell 1000 Growth Index Fund (VONG)

Pfizer Inc. (PFE) 

CSX Corporation (CSX)

TOTAL: $5,408.05 US: $7,277.07 CAN

Tax-free savings account (TFSA):

Dumont Nickel Inc. (DNI)

CT Real Estate Investment Trust (CRT.UN)

Canadian National Railway Co (CNR)

Exchange Income Corporation (EIF)

Brookfield Infrastructure Partners L.P. (BIP.UN)

Brookfield Renewable Energy Partners L.P. (BEP.UN)

Andrew Peller Limited (ADW.A)

Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD)

Boyd Group Services Inc. (BYD)

Canadian Apartment Properties Real Estate Investment Trust (CAR.UN)

Data Communications Mgmt (DCM)

Royal Bank of Canada (RY)

Park Lawn Corporation (PLC)

Toromont Industries Ltd (TIH)

BCE Inc. (BCE)

Boralex Inc. Class A Shares (BLX)

Savaria Corporation (SIS)

Northland Power Inc. (NPI)

Calian Group Ltd. (CGY)

Canadian Utilities Limited (CU)

WSP Global Inc. (WSP)

Granite Real Estate Investment Trust (GRT.UN)

Cargojet Inc. (CJT)

Nutrien Ltd. (NTR)

TFI International Inc. (TFII)

Canadian Imperial Bank Of Commerce (CM)

SIR Royalty Income Fund (SRV.UN)

ATCO Ltd. (ACO.Y)

Aecon Group Inc. (ARE)

Brookfield Asset Management Inc. Class A Limited Voting Shares (BAM.A)

Metro Inc. (MRU)

Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. (ATD.A)

Fortis Inc. (FTS)

CGI Inc. (GIB.A)

TMX Group Limited (X)

Brookfield Infrastructure Corporation Class A Exchangeable Subordinate Voting Shares (BIPC)

Brookfield Renewable Corporation Class A Exchangeable Subordinate Voting Shares (BEPC)

Suncor Energy Inc. (SU)

Rogers Communications Inc. (RCI.B)

Telus Corp (T)

JFT Strategies Fund Class A Units (JFS.UN)

Bitcoin Fund The Class A units (QBTC)

Purpose Bitcoin ETF CAD ETF non-currency hedged units (BTCC.B)

3iQ CoinShares Ether ETF (ETHQ)

Tilray Inc (TLRY)

North West Company Inc. (The) (NWC)

Bank of Nova Scotia (BNS)

National Bank of Canada (NA)

Stelco Holdings Inc. (STLC)

Hammond Manufacturing Company Limited Class A Subordinate Voting Shares (HMM.A)

Saputo Inc. (SAP)

Labrador Iron Ore Royalty Corporation (LIF)

Intertape Polymer Group Inc. (ITP)

Parex Resources Inc. (PXT)

Wescan Energy Corp. (WCE)

Verde Agritech Plc Ordinary Shares (NPK)

Wajax Corporation (WJX)

Whitecap Resources Inc. (WCP)

Goodfellow Inc. (GDL)

Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. (AQN)

Pembina Pipeline Corporation (PPL)

TransCanada Corp (TRP)

A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund (AW.UN)

Total Energy Services Inc. (TOT)

Empire Company Limited Non-Voting Class A Shares (EMP.A)

Power Corporation of Canada Subordinate Voting Shares (POW)

Enbridge Inc. (ENB)

Alaris Equity Partners Income Trust (AD.UN)

TOTAL: $130,730.80

RSP investment portfolio: 

Emera Incorporated (EMA)

Ovintiv Inc. (OVV)

Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD)

Telus Corp (T)

Royal Bank of Canada (RY)

Savaria Corporation (SIS)

Thomson Reuters Corporation (TRI)

Park Lawn Corporation (PLC)

Richards Packaging Income Fund (RPI.UN)

Toromont Industries Ltd (TIH)

CAE Inc. (CAE)

CGI Group Inc. Class A Subordinate Voting Shares (GIB.A)

Boralex Inc. Class A Shares (BLX)

Quebecor Inc. (QBR.B)

Logistec Corporation Class B Subordinate Voting Shares (LGT.B)

Brookfield Renewable Partners L.P. (BEP.UN)

Leon's Furniture Limited (LNF)

Bank of Nova Scotia (BNS)

Brookfield Renewable Corporation Class A Exchangeable Subordinate Voting Shares (BEPC)

Cascades Inc. (CAS)

JFT Strategies Fund Class A Units (JFS.UN)

AirBoss of America Corp. (BOS)

Suncor Energy Inc. (SU)

Pender Growth Fund Inc. (PTF)

Rogers Communications Inc. Class B Non-voting Shares (RCI.B)

ATS Automation Tooling Systems Inc. (ATA)

Algoma Central Corporation (ALC)

Finning International Inc. (FTT)

Guardian Capital Group Limited (GCG)

Information Services Corporation Class A Limited Voting Shares (ISV)

Interfor Corporation (IFP)

Maple Leaf Foods Inc. (MFI)

National Bank of Canada (NA)

Nutrien Ltd. (NTR)

Open Text Corporation (OTEX)

Taiga Building Products Ltd. (TBL)

Vitreous Glass Inc. (VCI)

Power Corporation of Canada Subordinate Voting Shares (POW)

North West Company Inc. (The) (NWC)

Whitecap Resources Inc. (WCP)

Parex Resources Inc. (PXT)

North West Company Inc. (The) (NWC)

Wajax Corporation (WJX)

Canadian Imperial Bank Of Commerce (CM)

Hamilton Enhanced U.S. Covered Call ETF (HYLD)

TMX Group Limited (X)

iA Financial Corporation Inc. (IAG)

Ninepoint Energy Income Fund ETF (NRGI)

Total: $64,374.49

CIBC Dividend Growth Fund + CIBC Emerging Markets Index Fund + CIBC Monthly Income Fund: $3,361.94

Others: $1,159.90

NBI Income Fund: $1,229.01

Manulife Fidelity NorthStar GIF CAP

Manulife Simplicity Growth Portfolio 

Maritime Life CI Harbour Seg Fund

Maritime Life Fidelity True North Seg Fund

Manulife GIF MLIA B World Invest

Total: $8,527.09

Other various: $36,487.46

TOTAL: $115,139.52

Social Capital at Desjardins Membership share: $35

Online money: $66.92

Savings + Stocks, units, mutual funds + Tax-free Savings account + RRSP:

TOTAL: $393,849.39

Embracing NRGI Ninepoint Energy Income Fund ETF Ser Unit (NEO) in My RRSP Portfolio Along with a 13k Dividend Income!

The TSX Concludes Today's Session at a Promising 20,342.88 Points. My margin account debt has reached $29,680.79. Noteworthy figures from my portfolios include the non-registered portfolio closing at $137,325.36, the US portfolio at $5,387.85, the RRSP stocks-only portfolio at $64,458.49, and the TFSA portfolio at $134,387.88.

Prior to the day's end, I made a choice to invest in several shares of NRGI Ninepoint Energy Income Fund ETF Ser Unit (NEO). Navigating the current complexities of the financial landscape can be quite a challenge. So, why not explore a small investment opportunity in a new energy sector venture? A few days ago, a reader kindly shared a link that provided a comprehensive performance review of BNN's Market Call guests. The standout performer? Eric Nuttall. Presently at the helm of the Ninepoint Energy Income Fund series, Nuttall's track record intrigued me. This led me to ponder, why not indeed? When seeking managed investment, it's imperative to opt for a remarkably skilled manager. This is the narrative that underpins my investment in the Ninepoint Energy Income Fund ETF (NRGI). I hold a positive disposition towards managed ETFs, particularly given the alluring 7% monthly dividend yield that the Ninepoint Energy Income Fund (NRGI) offers.

As a result of this new investment in my RRSP, my annual dividend income has surged to $13,000, even surpassing it by a few dollars. Today brought forth remarkably exciting news for me.

I'm approaching my budget review with a touch of realism, especially regarding my margin account debt repayment. As 2023 winds down, my goal to trim my margin debt has shifted to $23,000, slightly above my previously set target of $20,000. While my budget remains tight, I'm allowing some flexibility, considering essential expenses like new winter boots and unforeseen needs. It struck me that I omitted an upcoming September visit to a dermatologist, a healthcare service that's "free" in Quebec until necessity arises. Though I could have postponed this, it's been on my back burner for far too long. Consequently, I've arranged an appointment with a private practice dermatologist.

Today's technological advancements, including laser treatments, prompt me to believe my minor concerns can be swiftly resolved. The initial consultation comes at a cost of $250, and rest assured, I plan to maximize every penny spent. Jokingly, I'm even looking for a "body quote" for all the improvements I wish to make, even those lacking urgency. As for the upcoming procedure(s), their specifics will only become clear during the consultation. I've allotted $1,500, which seems ample for the priority work I hope to undergo, yet I remain uncertain about the overall expense.

Turning 43 at the end of August, this venture feels like a self-gift for my birthday. Back in May, my comeback to Montreal included a dental appointment, leading to a few necessary procedures. Some of these fell outside my insurance coverage, leaving me with out-of-pocket costs amounting to a couple of hundred dollars. The passage of time certainly comes with its financial demands, and when insurance isn't comprehensive, expenses add up swiftly, particularly in the realm of dental care. $$$ Put gold in that shit mouth.

For a touch of light-heartedness, feel free to follow me on Twitter/X.

Using my Savings to Chip Away my Margin Account Debt

I've spent the last couple of days in New Brunswick. Thanks to my remote work setup, the flexibility to leave Montreal for New Brunswick whenever I please is incredibly convenient. However, a small oversight caught me off guard. The day before my departure from Montreal, the weather was so warm that I opted not to pack any jackets or warm clothing. My intention was to travel light, allowing me to bring back a maximum of my New Brunswick belongings. I was quite pleased with my minimalist approach.

Yet, reality hit when I arrived in New Brunswick. August's weather here isn't all sunshine and roses, unlike my expectations. This realization led to a spontaneous shopping spree. To my surprise, I hadn't even packed a pair of sneakers. Fortunately, my mom and I wear the same shoe size, providing a solution. The scenario led to a lighthearted moment at Reitmans, where the associate found my explanation for purchasing a new wardrobe quite amusing.

In my defense, everything I bought was on sale, easing the financial aspect of my impromptu shopping adventure. Lesson learned: while my intentions to travel light were commendable, sometimes practicality and the weather forecast should strike a balance.

Witness it firsthand: Autumn is gradually making its presence felt in New Brunswick! In certain areas, it's evident that the leaves have begun to shift hues. The chilly nights are contributing to this transformation.

The housing crisis is an undeniable reality, far from being mere fake news. At present, my elderly parents find themselves unable to sell their house due to the scarcity of available apartments. This critical issue extends beyond the borders of my hometown, affecting the entire province and even resonating beyond. Canada is indeed grappling with a widespread housing crisis. Fortunately, my parents can still manage their property for the time being. While I'm still planning to relocate my belongings from New Brunswick to Montreal, the predicament that once loomed large is gradually easing, but I still want to bring my stuff back with me to Montreal.

After discussing this matter at length, I took a significant step: I decided to utilize a substantial portion of the money I had stashed away in my bank account—essentially my dormant savings—to whittle down my margin debt. This move caused my debt to dwindle from a precise $36,228.71 to $29,680.79. Crossing the threshold into the sub-30k range brings a somewhat sense of accomplishment, rendering the debt more feasible to manage.

Achieving this feat required tapping into funds within my TFSA portfolio—specifically those generated from dividend distributions over my margin. I stretched my financial limits to their utmost to accomplish this endeavor. Typically, I systematically reinvest dividends earned within my TFSA portfolio. However, for a noble cause, I deemed it wise to channel the dividend income from my TFSA towards chipping away at my margin account debt, all the while preferring to refrain from selling any of my investments in the current climate.

And there you have it: the conclusion is crystal clear—I'm officially in a cash crunch. Trust me, I'm eagerly marking off the days until my paycheck arrives this upcoming Friday! With my margin debt currently resting at $29,680.79, I'm setting my sights on the ambitious goal of reducing it to around $20,000 by the close of 2023. While no walk in the park, it's a challenge I'm prepared to face head-on, thanks in part to the support of my dividend income.

Follow me on Twitter/X for updates and more.

Margin Account Debt Paydown Dilemma: Examining Two Investments from my Non-Registered Portfolio for Liquidation

It's my last vacation weekend. The TSX closed this past Friday's session at a robust 20,519.37 points. My non-registered portfolio closed at $136,459.13, my US portfolio at $5,422.34, my RRSP stocks-only portfolio at $65,093.69, and my TFSA portfolio at $134,846.45. Now, my TFSA portfolio is almost at the same value as my non-registered one.

I recently learned that TMX Group Limited (X) has increased its dividend distribution. On Twitter (X...), one great account I follow is @5iresearchdotca, 5i Research Inc. They are excellent at providing updates regarding stocks and dividend increases. 5i Research Inc. also has a fantastic dividend update page, including information on raised and decreased dividends, on their website.

I recently invested in Alaris Equity Partners Income Trust (AD.UN). AD.UN is a stock that I picked from Jean-François Tardif's JFT Strategies Fund Class A Units (JFS.UN), where Alaris Equity Partners Income Trust (AD.UN) holds the 5th position. It's quite enjoyable to have access to the major assets held in JFS.UN. Essentially, it gives you free access to all of Jean-François Tardif's team's hard work! Isn't that amazing?

In my TFSA portfolio, AD.UN has gained +4.68%. Goodfellow Inc. (GDL) is not a stock I often write about, but it has gained +34.93%, also in my TFSA. Finally, another stock that I like and don't often write about is Hammond Manufacturing Company Limited Class A Subordinate Voting Shares (HMM.A). In my TFSA portfolio, HMM.A has gained +60.99%. I have a fondness for family-owned businesses, and on top of that, HMM.A operates in my favorite sector, which is industrial.

In the previous post, I discussed strategies to pay down my margin debt. One option that still remains is to sell some of my investments to reduce that debt. Thanks to the monthly interest that never fails to kick in, my margin account debt now exceeds $36,000 by a few hundred dollars. Here are some stocks that I could consider selling to pay down my debt, and I will explain why I'm considering them in particular.

In my non-registered portfolio:
K-Bro Linen Inc. (KBL)

I invested in KBL a super long time ago. It was a stock that I found in Susan Brunner's blog. I don't remember if she used to be invested in it, but back in the day, I liked the review that she wrote about that stock, so I decided to invest in it. Since then, because I have been invested in KBL for so long, my return on that investment has been +64.87%. Not bad, but for the time I've held onto it, I would have appreciated a stronger result. This will need to be verified - like everything else that I write about on this blog - but I am pretty sure that K-Bro Linen Inc. (KBL) has never actually increased its dividend distribution.

In my opinion, KBL is not doing extraordinarily well.
Here are the returns for KBL:
For the past year: +3.23%
For the past 5 years: -13.29%
Overall (Max): +213.55%

Considering that KBL's performance is not extraordinarily awesome and that the company has provided zero dividend increases since I have been holding onto it, it could be a good idea for me to consider selling this investment to pay down my margin.

However, I like KBL because of its sector, and I prefer to hold stocks that are a bit off the radar, with KBL being one of them. I have to admit that I am emotionally attached to KBL since it was one of my early investments.

TransCanada Corp (TRP)

In my non-registered portfolio, the gain from my TRP stocks is even lower than KBL, with a +11.26% gain. Is it normal for a cleaning business to give me a higher return than a company in the oil sector? Sincerely, I don't think so! And that's the reason why I'm considering selling my TransCanada Corp (TRP) stocks.

I have held on to my TRP stocks for many years. Lately, TRP announced some major business changes. Many investors on Twitter are happy about that and are buying TRP stocks, but for me, that situation is a big no-no, and I am not willing to invest in TRP. Currently, the appeal toward TRP resides in its 8.22% dividend yield. Because of that, if TRP announced a dividend decrease, its stock value could go down drastically because all of those little dumb-ass investors would probably sell their shares as soon as they hear the news...

I am not emotionally attached to TRP and I really don't care about that stock.

By selling my K-Bro Linen Inc. (KBL) and TransCanada Corp (TRP) shares, I would have around $5,000 at my disposal to pay down my margin debt. It could be interesting to proceed.

Those are the two stocks that I am considering selling from my non-registered portfolio. I also have a few stocks that I am considering selling from my TFSA portfolio; we'll chat about them in the next post.

Summer Fun: Juggling Vacation, Finances, and Nostalgia

I am still on vacation, and I have spent most of my time in Montreal. Soon, I will be heading to New Brunswick for a few days. It could be the last summer I will spend at my family's house since my old folks put it up for sale. The time has come for me to clear out everything, and soon, nothing of mine will be left in New Brunswick. I will do my best to bring back everything I can to Montreal, but I am also planning to return to New Brunswick in October for the hunting season. If the house is still available by then, I will have another chance to bring more of my belongings.

The "stuff" I need to move consists mostly of books and scholar notes—quite heavy items that are not too fun to carry around. The more I think about it, the more I realize I won't be able to bring everything back, but I'll give it my best shot.

As for my financial status, my non-registered portfolio closed today's session at $137,201.60, my US portfolio at $5,431.77, my RRSP stock portfolio at $65,581.01, and my TFSA portfolio at $135,556.23. Unfortunately, thanks to the very juicy interest rate, my margin debt has increased to $36,331.72, with the interest rate now at 8.50%. I don't expect it to decrease anytime soon, so I am actively seeking possible solutions.

Every year, I declare the interest earned on my margin as financial fees on my tax income. However, since my income last year exceeded $80,000, it doesn't make much of a difference whether I declare it or not. Still, I religiously ask for that tax credit every single year. This year, my income is expected to be lower, but not low enough to give me a tax break. This means I still have to invest in my RRSP this year and try to save up as much as possible to pay down my margin debt.

Option 1: Pulling out the $6,000 that I have in two different banking accounts to pay down my margin. This would mean not meeting the minimum balance in those accounts, resulting in monthly banking fees totaling $8.90 ($4.95 in one account and $3.95 in the other), amounting to an annual $106.80. In contrast, $6,000 at an annual 8.50% interest rate represents an annual sum of $510. By proceeding with this plan, I would save an annual $403.20 ($33.60 per month). I have already proceeded with a $2,950 transfer from one account, leaving about $50 behind to cover the infamous $3.95 per month banking fee for 12 months.

This decision has left me feeling cash poor, and I am not fond of having to pay banking fees. It brings back memories of my early days when I was cash poor, though back then, I didn't mind because I was investing every penny I could to fulfill my investment dreams, which I achieved. Currently, I don't have a specific list of wanted stocks; I essentially have everything I ever wanted.

I still have another $3,000 available to deposit on my margin. I am waiting for my next paycheck and should be able to deposit $6,500, but probably not more than that, as I also have to cover my living expenses.

Option 2: To sell some of my investments to pay down my margin debt.

I don't have many options, and it basically comes down to options 1 and 2. Nothing complicated there. Paying down that margin debt is just as challenging for me as taking out all my belongings from my family house in New Brunswick: a painful experience. It felt heavy on my shoulders for a few days, but once the shock was absorbed, it was all good.

I may explore option 2 in more detail in another post to study possible solutions, but I am not willing to sell anything at this time. I prefer to be cash poor, like I was in my early investment years, living paycheck to paycheck...

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