Adrian Mastracci, president of KCM Wealth Management, says “Resist rushing into something you’re not comfortable with. Understand the investments you own and those being contemplated."

For Immediate Release

Vancouver, BC (January 30, 2006): The venerable RRSP is turning a young 49. It’s now a mainstay of retirement planning.

I recently bought a greeting card with this inscription, “On the open road of life, may happiness be your destination.”

Adrian Mastracci, investment counsel at Vancouver based KCM Wealth Management, comments, “I concur. Hopefully, one small part of the destination is that investors are happy with their investment portfolios. The RRSP in particular. Sadly, that’s not always the case.”

Investors place many demands and aspirations on RRSPs. Those who don’t have an employer pension rely on them more. Although, having read the underfunding status of many a pension plan, RRSPs can be quite a relief.

I’ll ask the important question. How can investors be happier with their investment portfolios?

This time of year, referred as the RRSP season, makes investors hurry their RRSPs. So many ads about returns. So many investment choices.

So many sales calls. So little time before the March 1 deadline. So many tempting offers to borrow. So many decisions.

I can empathize with those who just want to forget about it. Only one in three Canadians makes the RRSP deposit. And not always the full amount.

Happier destinations

I have a simple suggestion. Slow down, there is a happier road. Do yourself a big favour and make your RRSP season a happy event.

Deposit your RRSP contribution. However, defer your decision about which investments to buy.

Skip the madness before the deadline. Just invest the deposit, and any other cash amounts, into a 60 to 90 day vehicle, like a Treasury bill. It’s not very exciting, but it serves a great purpose.

Then, with the pressure off, you can do your homework. Reflect on what you need to accomplish with your nestegg. Figure out what’s in your best interests.

Ask yourself these five easy questions as you begin:

1. Are you happy with your investment and retirement plan?
2. Are you receiving objective and coordinated counsel from your advisers?
3. Would you purchase the same investments today?
4. Are you comfortable with your asset mix given your goals and net worth?
5. Are you paying too much in investment fees and expenses?

This will get you started. Examine the personal and RRSP portfolios in depth. Perhaps, another opinion may be a valuable exercise.

Organize your plan

Follow an investment plan designed for you. Coordinate it with all your holdings. Never place tax considerations ahead of sensible investment strategies.

Resist rushing into something you’re not comfortable with. Understand the investments you own and those being contemplated. Focus on managing investment risks inside your RRSP.

Take ample time to conduct your detailed review. The investing decision can easily wait two or three months, perhaps more, when sound judgement prevails.

One more little thing. Keep reminding yourself of the inscription on my greeting card. Your retirement nestegg is at stake.

NOTE: The information provided above is intended for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute advice for anyone's specific situation. Everyone should always first consult directly with their advisors to determine the appropriateness of any information contained above before taking any action. KCM Wealth Management Inc. assumes no responsibility for any loss or damage arising from the use of, or reliance upon the above information.