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What’s really going on with Jerome Powell, and why are global markets paying attention? In this episode of Make Money Count, we break down the growing tension between the White House and the U.S. Federal Reserve, and why this story goes far beyond political drama. From legal pressure on Fed officials to concerns over central bank independence, this is a moment that could reshape interest rates, inflation, and investor confidence worldwide. We also explore why gold is hitting record highs, what history teaches us about political interference in monetary policy, and how all of this could eventually impact Canadian interest rates, mortgages, and the broader economy. If you’re trying to make sense of today’s market uncertainty, without the noise or headlines, this conversation connects the dots.

Make Money Count is back. 🎙️ After a short break, Marcus returns with a solo deep dive into where the Canadian economy truly stands as we enter the new year—and why the next phase may depend on a careful balancing act between the Bank of Canada and the federal government. This episode goes beyond headlines. Marcus connects global political developments, energy markets, bond yields, and interest rates to explain how events outside Canada’s borders can still directly impact your mortgage, your investments, and the broader economy. 

The Bank of Canada finally cut rates — but what does that really mean for homeowners? Marcus breaks down why this rate cut isn’t as simple as it sounds, and what Canadians should prepare for next. Listen now for real talk on what’s ahead for your mortgage, inflation, and the economy.

In this episode, Marcus and Justin reveal what’s really keeping grocery prices high, what the Bank of Canada might do next, and how smart borrowers can use this moment to their advantage. They dig into: • Why food prices in Canada refuse to drop • How the grocery market structure keeps costs high • What the next rate decision could mean for your mortgage • The surprising price gap between Canada and the UK The takeaway: Inflation might be easing, but the story isn’t over. Listen to the full episode to see what’s really going on — and how to prepare your finances for what comes next.

AI is moving fast, and it’s already changing the way mortgages are handled. In this episode, Marcus dives into how AI tools like ChatGPT are analyzing mortgage scenarios, calculating penalties, and even projecting rates—but can they really replace human advisors? We discuss: How AI is disrupting mortgage and finance roles Why basic mortgage advice is no longer enough How Cannect uses AI to empower advisors, not replace them The future of mortgage advice in Canada The takeaway: AI can crunch numbers, but strategy, insight, and personalized advice still need a human touch.

Trump met Carney — and on the surface, nothing happened. No new tariffs, no clear trade progress… just smiles and handshakes. But while everyone focused on political optics, bond yields quietly continued to fall, signaling a major shift for Canadian homeowners and anyone locked into a high fixed-rate mortgage. In this episode of Make Money Count, Marcus and Justin break down: Why "nothing happened" might actually be a good thing The real mortgage implications hidden behind the Trump-Carney meeting How bond yields are signaling faster rate cuts Why waiting for a Bank of Canada update could cost you thousands Fixed vs Variable — how to know if now’s the time to break your mortgage If your mortgage rate starts with a 5, this episode could be your wake-up call. Don’t wait for the market to tell you what to do — run your numbers before the opportunity is priced out.

Toronto’s housing market is at a crossroads. Interest rates are easing, but condo supply is piling up, and defaults are on the rise. Will prices bounce back soon, or is there more pain ahead for homeowners and investors? In this episode of Make Money Count, Marcus and Justin break down: ✔️ Why condo prices may dip further ✔️ The impact of rising defaults and arrears ✔️ What falling interest rates really mean ✔️ Why consumer confidence is the missing piece 🏠 The Canadian housing market has always bounced back — but will this time be different?

In this episode of Make Money Count, Marcus & Justin discuss Deloitte’s latest report on the Canadian economy and share their take on what it really means for 2025–2026. From CUSMA negotiations with the U.S. to tariffs, trade uncertainty, and your mortgage options, Marcus breaks it down. - What you’ll learn in this episode:   - Why trade uncertainty could slow the Canadian economy - The real risks behind CUSMA negotiations - How tariffs affect jobs, businesses, and your wallet - Why variable-rate mortgages may be the smartest choice right now

The Bank of Canada just cut its overnight rate by 25 basis points, bringing it to 2.5%. But what does this mean for your mortgage, housing prices, and the Canadian economy? In this episode, Marcus breaks down: Why did the U.S. and Canada cut rates on the same day What’s really happening with inflation and the labor market Why variable mortgages may now be the smarter move How fixed rates, penalties, and bond yields fit into the picture Listen now to understand whether you should stick with fixed, switch to variable, or refinance your mortgage.

They thought they were consolidating debt. Instead, they lost a 0% interest loan, and the bank didn’t even tell them.   In this episode of Make Money Count, Marcus and Justin break down a real-life horror story featured in The Globe and Mail, where a Canadian couple trusted their bank to help refinance their debt. What happened next? Their 0% First-Time Home Buyer loan was paid off without consent, costing them thousands and leaving them with no recourse. This one’s a must-watch for anyone considering refinancing or renewing a mortgage. Don’t make this mistake. Learn how a good mortgage broker could’ve saved them.

Should mortgage brokers get access to your CRA data? In this episode of Make Money Count, Marcus and Justin dive into a recent CRA roundtable that could reshape the mortgage industry in Canada. We’re talking: Income verification & fraud prevention Why the banks are NOT pushing for transparency The hidden cost of mortgage fraud Open banking delays — and who’s responsible How Cannect is already building the tech that the banks won’t This one’s packed with insight, bold takes, and real talk about how the system works. Don’t miss it. 👉 Listen now and learn how to outsmart the banks.

In this episode of Make Money Count, Marcus and Justin discuss the Bank of Canada’s latest reports and what they say about Canada’s economic health. Business sentiment? Still shaky. Job security? People are worried. Consumer spending? Slowing fast. With inflation staying sticky and interest rates stuck in place, we might be headed straight into stagflation—and the BoC seems to be out of options. 👉 Don’t miss this breakdown if you’re a homeowner, investor, or just trying to make sense of the market right now.

Why are Canadian interest rates stuck? On this Make Money Count episode, Marcus & Justin break down the latest CPI numbers and explain why the Bank of Canada isn't cutting rates soon – and what it means for your wallet. We cover: Stubborn Core Inflation: Even with overall CPI cooling, core inflation is still too high. The Tariff Impact: How tariffs are driving up prices on everything from groceries to clothing. Stagflation Warning: What stagflation (inflation without growth) means for Canada's economy. No Quick Fixes: Why you shouldn't expect significant rate cuts or a housing market boom anytime soon. Get the real scoop on why rates are stuck and what to expect for 2025 and beyond!

Are Canadian banks giving you biased financial advice? In this episode of Make Money Count, Marcus & Justin break down a recent Globe and Mail article that reveals how big banks are pressuring their advisors to meet sales targets, often at your expense. From mutual funds with hidden commissions to GICs and mortgage negotiations, this episode uncovers the truth behind the polished smiles at your local branch. - What’s really behind those “share classes”? - Why bank stocks are still up—despite being called out - And what you should be doing instead Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation.

TD Bank’s latest report says mortgage payments are dropping, but is it really good news? In this episode of Make Money Count, Marcus and Justin break down what’s happening in the Canadian mortgage market. ✅ Why are payments down even with high interest rates? ✅ What does a 57% rise in Toronto delinquencies mean? ✅ Are you part of the 40% of Canadians who’ll feel the pain at renewal? ✅ Can you push your amortization or tap into equity to lower payments? ✅ Why banks won’t tell you the full truth—and what to do about it.   Plus, we talk trade tensions, inflation, stagflation, and how it all ties into your next mortgage rate. Is now the time to go variable? What your bank doesn’t want you to know at renewal time