No big alarms to sound this month. But there's real movement beneath the surface, in AI, in interest rates, in how markets are behaving, and I want to walk you through it in plain terms.

This is also a good moment to say: staying informed doesn't mean staying glued to the headlines. It just means having someone in your corner who is. That's what this update is for, a clear, no-fluff look at what's happening and what it means for you, so you can spend your July doing the things that actually matter to you.

Market Update

According to RBC’s latest Global Asset Management outlook, growth expectations have moderated relative to earlier cycles, yet key indicators such as employment, consumer activity, and corporate earnings continue to support financial markets. Inflation has eased from prior peaks, though central banks remain cautious as they monitor the timing and pace of potential interest rate adjustments.

In Canada, economic momentum remains modest. Higher borrowing costs continue to influence household spending and business investment decisions, but data suggests a slower-growth environment, with stability remaining the theme rather than disruption. 

Two major forces are currently shaping the global economic picture: ongoing volatility in energy markets and the rapid rise of AI.

Energy-related pressures are expected to be more temporary, while AI is likely to be a longer-term driver of growth and productivity. As a result, equities are expected to outperform bonds over time; however, it’s important to note that much of the optimism is already reflected in equity markets today, especially in regions and sectors with high exposure to AI-related growth.

AI is no longer confined to a single sector, but has become a broader economic driver influencing technology, infrastructure, energy demand, and global supply chains. Globally, markets continue to be shaped by longer-term structural themes such as AI, digital infrastructure, and energy transition, which are driving concentrated areas of growth and investment.

At the same time, this has contributed to more concentrated market performance, with a smaller group of companies linked to AI innovation accounting for a larger share of overall returns. While AI is widely viewed as a long-term driver of productivity and growth, it’s important to recognize that expectations in certain areas of the market are already elevated. 

What This Means for Investors

When it comes to assessing portfolios, even if things feel steady enough that no immediate changes seem necessary, ongoing headlines about interest rates, inflation, and global uncertainty can create hesitation or second-guessing.

This is where financial planning becomes particularly important, so you aren’t left wondering what your next move should be. 

At Burton Wealth Management, I provide the expertise and tools necessary to give you peace of mind that your money is optimized to work for you, even in the face of uncertainty. Because the reality is, especially as the busyness of summer sets in and markets change, having someone in your corner who knows the ins and outs can provide the clarity needed to move through the next few months with confidence and ease. 

Did you know periods of relative stability often create the best opportunity to address longer-term financial strategies? This can include things such as:

• Tax planning and year-end efficiency
• Retirement income structuring and drawdown strategies
• Charitable giving plans and legacy planning
• Estate planning updates to reflect life changes

For business owners, as income accumulates throughout the year, it becomes increasingly important to ensure tax obligations are set aside appropriately and that investment decisions align with after-tax outcomes.

Similarly, for those approaching retirement, this is often a valuable time to revisit income sequencing. Assessing RRSPs, TFSAs, pensions, and non-registered investments can have a meaningful impact on lifetime tax efficiency.

When it’s all said and done, every individual has differing return expectations and tolerances for volatility, so there’s certainly no “one size fits all” approach. Additionally, there will always be uncertainty in the market and how global issues will affect it. Markets are cyclical, not linear, and right now we can be sure that diversification remains one of the most effective tools for managing uncertainty over time.

Women, Wealth & Financial Confidence

Women are increasingly shaping the economy as leaders, founders, and innovators, and I’m so proud to work with some of the women doing just that.

Recent data from Statistics Canada shows that majority women-owned businesses now account for approximately 20.6% of all private-sector businesses. This growth is not just about volume, but about impact. Many companies are also reporting stronger representation of women in leadership roles, which has significantly shaped the culture of many workplaces. What’s particularly worth noting is the nature of this growth, where women entrepreneurs are increasingly building businesses that prioritize long-term stability, community impact, and values-based decision-making alongside financial success. 

This mindset is reshaping what “wealth creation” looks like, moving beyond accumulation alone towards a more well-rounded, intentional approach to financial independence and a broader sense of purpose. 

It’s safe to say the world could benefit from more women in power, and although this shift is significant, challenges remain for women who are continually trying to push through the glass ceiling. 

Access to capital remains one of the most commonly cited barriers for women starting and scaling businesses. Decisions around compensation, reinvestment, taxation, and long-term succession planning all play a critical role in turning business success into lasting financial security, and at Burton Wealth Management, I ensure women are supported as they navigate all of these and more. 

As financial planning becomes less about numbers alone and more about purpose, family, impact, and legacy, there are some questions women can be asking themselves to ensure things feel aligned: 

• How do I ensure my wealth reflects my values?
• How can I meaningfully support my children or grandchildren?
• How do I balance financial independence with generosity?
• What does a legacy that feels authentic to me actually look like?

Services that Support You Through All Cycles of Life

As a financial advisor who finds great purpose in supporting women as they navigate life's complexities, I pride myself on providing the resources, tools, and insights that instill confidence in their decision-making. Whether that looks like financial planning, optimized investment portfolios, tax strategies or more, I’m here to help. 

Let’s Connect

Let’s make sure the right systems are in place to ensure your financial security and prosperity, through all seasons of life. 

Where you can find me: 

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Caitlin Burton

Investment Advisor

caitlin.burton@rbc.com

Phone: 613-566-7511

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