Trade tensions, politics and market volatility. These are the topics of conversation dominating headlines and dinner tables across Alberta right now. But there’s something even more immediate and closer to home that isn’t getting the same kind of attention: the federal election.

 

On a recent episode of More Than Money Dave Popowich and Faisal Karmali called out the disconnect between what people are worried about and what they’re actually talking about.

 

“When I'm out socializing or talking to people, the election is getting completely drowned out,” Dave said. “Nobody [is talking about it] and this is the most important thing that we've got as Canadians right now.”
 

Faisal pointed out while many are concerned about the global economy and Canada’s place in it, they’re not connecting those concerns to leadership decisions or long-term direction.
 

“They’re talking about what's happening with trade war and tariffs,” he said. “They're not saying we better figure out who we want as a leader to deal with not only Trump, but with our future. Let’s have that discussion.”
 

And Dave didn’t hold back when describing Canada’s current relationship with the United States either:
“Canada’s been kicked out of the basement of the United States,” he said. “And the United States said, go get a job.”
 

It’s a sharp way to describe the shift in global dynamics and a reminder that we can’t count on the same economic plans and assumptions we’ve relied on for decades. Policies on trade, taxes, energy, and healthcare are all in motion, and the people we elect will determine how Canada responds.
 

But just as important as staying informed is staying calm. Times like these can feel uncertain, even overwhelming, especially if you're thinking about your retirement or your financial future in it.

Dave has repeatedly warned about making emotional decisions with your money. The underlying message throughout the show was clear: reacting to headlines or fear instead of long-term strategy can be costly. History shows that markets have weathered political shifts, economic slowdowns, and global conflict and they’ve continued to move forward.
 

“We’ve stress-tested plans going back a hundred years,” Dave said. “The people who stay focused and disciplined are the ones who come out ahead.”
 

So yes, pay attention to the election. Ask smart questions. Think critically about the kind of leadership Canada needs. But don’t let fear dictate your next move especially when it comes to your finances.
 

“This is a pivotal moment,” Dave added. “It deserves your full attention, but not your panic.”

If you’d like to learn more about how PKAG can help guide you through these times in your retirement, contact us today and join us at one of our in-person seminars where we’ll show you how to help ensure you don't run out of money in retirement.