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Perspectives on Labour and Income

February 2008 issue

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RRSP investments

Abstract: A wide variety of assets can be held in registered retirement savings plans—ranging from investments with predictable values, like guaranteed investment certificates, to those whose values vary, like stocks of individual companies. Returns to these investments, and therefore income levels in retirement, can vary dramatically, depending on the economic climate and the mix of investments. This article examines the characteristics of families with RRSPs and the allocation of assets within their RRSPs according to the level of predictability of the return on investment.

Earnings in the last decade

Abstract: The pay structure for Canada's workers has changed over the past decade. Pay rates have risen in Alberta, especially since 2004. In Ontario and Quebec, earnings in manufacturing have not fallen substantially, despite sharp decreases in employment. Even after the turbulence of the 2001 to 2004 period, average earnings in the CT sector ended up rising 12% in real terms. Along with changes in trade patterns and technology use, demographic trends have also influenced labour market conditions and earnings. This article examines the evolution of earnings in Canada from 1997 to 2007.

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