Podcast
Stocks vs ETFs
Will Simpson and Greg Wise
April 25, 2025
How we use both stocks and ETFs to navigate uncertain markets.
In today’s video, we discuss how we use both stocks and ETFs in our strategy and the important role they play in our Tactical Wealth Portfolio.
The indices were positive this week as markets shook off early-week jitters to post a strong week, with the S&P 500 gaining +4.5% and the Nasdaq surging 6.6% in CAD terms. Growth stocks led the charge, particularly in the U.S., where tech rallied 7.7%, supported by strength in semiconductors and software. Canadian markets saw solid gains too, with the TSX up 1.9% as the tech sector posted a massive 9.3% gain. Despite lingering noise around tariffs and Fed leadership, equities broadly rallied on hints of softening trade rhetoric and no immediate threat to Jerome Powell’s position.
Canada’s federal election on Monday will be the first in many years in which Justin Trudeau is not the leader of the Liberal Party. Mark Carney now leads the Liberals against Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre in a tight race. Polls show a slight Liberal edge, with some pointing to a possible majority. The campaign has been shaped by U.S. trade tensions, putting the spotlight on economic stability and national direction. Voters will now weigh two distinct approaches as they head to the polls.
While the market performed well this week, the economy is far from calm. The IMF revised growth lower across the board, Canada to 1.4%, the U.S. to 1.8%, and China to 4.0% for 2025. Tariff uncertainty continues to cloud the outlook, and consumer sentiment is still beaten up. We expect a bumpy ride to continue.
Aretec is a wealth management firm for Canadian families who don’t want a “good enough” experience with their money, but an experience that’s the best it can possibly be.
We want you to be wealthy in terms of your portfolio, money and net worth. We also want you to feel wealthy — in the sense that you have peace of mind, freedom from worry, good health, the ability to spend time with family and friends and enjoy your retirement and overall, live the good life.
At Aretec, we want you to realize the full potential of your wealth.
We want you to Realize Your Wealth™.
Feel free to reach out if you would like to discuss your investment portfolio or your financial, wealth and retirement plan. We are here working for you.
Best,