Welcome back to Brick x Brick! I'm Roxann Klepper, and today we’re diving into a crucial topic: finances. In previous episodes, we’ve talked real estate, but today we’re shifting focus to help you understand the ins and outs of managing your wealth. While I’m passionate about real estate, I’m not an investment expert, which is why I’m excited to introduce you to Jillian Vukovitch, a division manager at IG Wealth Management.
I met Jillian a couple of years ago through a networking group I organized, and I was immediately struck by her passion for helping people achieve their financial goals. Her approach is personal and empowering, which makes her a perfect fit for today’s discussion.
A Journey from Psychology to Wealth Management
Jillian’s career started in psychology and customer service, but her entrepreneurial upbringing led her to a natural gravitation toward finances. “I love money,” she says. “I love what money can do for you—the security it brings, the way it can support families, and the way it shapes our lives.”
For many, talking about money can be uncomfortable, but Jillian is passionate about changing that. Whether you have a lot or a little, she believes it’s essential to have open discussions about money and not shy away from asking for more, saving appropriately, or seeking better financial strategies.
The First Step in Your Financial Journey
When you first meet with Jillian, she emphasizes the importance of being vulnerable and open about what’s keeping you up at night. She loves understanding the emotional side of money, whether that’s dreaming of retirement on a beach or securing a stable future for your family. From there, Jillian and her team work to find the right strategy to make those dreams a reality.
Evolving Relationships: From First Meeting to Long-Term Guidance
Once you’ve established your financial strategy with Jillian, your relationship doesn’t end there. Over time, she stays engaged, checking in at least once a year and offering guidance during pivotal moments in your financial journey. Whether it’s navigating an unpredictable market or preparing for a major life event, Jillian is there to ensure you make thoughtful, educated decisions.
Understanding Investment Basics
One of the key takeaways from today’s episode is understanding the fundamentals of investing, especially for women just starting their journey. Jillian advises against copying the strategies of family members or friends, as every financial situation is unique. She stresses that true financial growth requires understanding various investment avenues.
Exploring Different Investment Accounts
Jillian explains the three main types of accounts available for saving and investing in Canada:
RRSP (Registered Retirement Savings Plan): A great tool for reducing taxes in the short term, but it does come with tax consequences when you withdraw funds in the future.
TFSA (Tax-Free Savings Account): Often misunderstood, this is a powerful tool for saving and growing wealth tax-free. Gillian calls it the “tax-free investment account” because it only works if you invest the funds.
Non-Registered Accounts: These accounts offer flexibility but require paying taxes on the growth of your investments. Despite recent changes to tax laws, these accounts are still a strong choice for people looking to invest without specific tax benefits.
Why Money Conversations Matter
As we’ve learned today, it’s crucial for women to have these conversations about money. Whether you live in Red Deer, Central Alberta, or beyond, educating yourself about money, making informed decisions, and seeking the right advice can set you on a path toward financial freedom.
Thanks for tuning into today’s Brick x Brick episode! If you’re ready to take the next step in your financial journey, reach out to a financial advisor or start by learning more about investment options in your area.
Remember, it’s never too late to begin. Take control of your financial future today!