
The Money Scope Podcast
The Money Scope is a weekly limited-run podcast about personal financial decision-making for Canadian professionals. The podcast follows a curriculum deliberately designed to make you a better, more thoughtful financial decision maker.
It is hosted by Benjamin Felix - Portfolio Manager and Head of Research at PWL Capital, and Dr. Mark Soth - the Loonie Doctor.
The moneyscope.ca site is peppered with photoshopped fun, and each episode page is deliberately designed to be a multi-media curriculum with annotated transcripts, primary source references, and links to relevant materials in our other blog and podcast formats.
Latest episodes

Mar 15, 2024 • 1h 12min
Ep 9: Taxable Investing in Canada
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of income tax and demystify the often intimidating realm of investment taxation. Join us as we break down various forms of investment returns, from interest and dividends to capital gains and more. Discover the impact of tax integration on Canadian dividends and learn how foreign dividends can add a layer of complexity to the process. Explore the critical concept of attribution rules and understand how they influence who pays the tax bill on investment income. We delve into strategies like prescribed rate loan planning and second-generation income planning to optimize your investments over the long term. Gain essential insights into tax-loss harvesting and how to navigate superficial loss rules effectively. Plus, hear valuable tips on asset location to maximize your returns while minimizing tax implications. To gain a deeper understanding of investment taxes and enhance your financial knowledge, tune in now! Key Points From This Episode: (0:02:27) Overview of the reasons to consider a taxable investment account. (0:05:10) Mark and Ben explain the basics of taxes and investing. (0:09:27) The different types of investment income and how they're taxed. (0:12:49) Explore the problems associated with tax integration. (0:14:28) Insights into the myth of dividend investing. (0:19:36) Unpack the complexity surrounding foreign taxes and dividends. (0:23:41) Net rental income and capital gains (realized and unrealized) are explained. (0:31:05) A deep dive into a vital aspect of tax: attribution rules. (0:45:54) Leverage investing in a taxable account instead of a registered account. (0:49:04) Comparison of individual with joint investment accounts. (0:54:14) Common tax pitfalls to avoid and useful tax-reducing strategies. (0:59:42) Tax loss harvesting to reduce tax and the associated risks. (1:08:58) Closing comments and key takeaways. Links From Today’s Episode: Dr. Mark Soth (The Loonie Doctor) — https://www.looniedoctor.ca/ Dr. Mark on X — https://twitter.com/LoonieDoctor Benjamin Felix — https://www.pwlcapital.com/author/benjamin-felix/ Benjamin on X — https://twitter.com/benjaminwfelix Benjamin on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminwfelix/

Mar 8, 2024 • 24min
Ep.8 Case Conference: Choosing the Right Door
Explore the complexities of registered account types for Canadian investors, including RRSPs, TFSAs, and RESPs. Learn how to navigate tax implications, maximize deductions, and transition to individual plans. Discover strategies for optimizing RRSP contribution room, managing income through corporations, and diversifying wealth for tax efficiency.

18 snips
Mar 1, 2024 • 1h 29min
Ep. 8 Canadian Investment Accounts
Learn about Canadian investment accounts in this episode as they break down the benefits and drawbacks of TFSA, RRSPs, RRIFs, LIRAs, and FHSA. Understand the rules, contribution limits, and withdrawal flexibility of each account to maximize tax benefits. Explore strategies for optimizing contributions, navigating group RESPs, and utilizing grants for education. Dive into the complexities of investment taxation and balancing personal and corporate taxable accounts.

Feb 23, 2024 • 20min
Intermission Episode
In this special intermission episode, the hosts reflect on the podcast journey, share listener feedback, and tease upcoming Canadian-focused content. They discuss dividend investing perspectives, audience engagement, and the impact on financial decision-making. The episode touches on success metrics, mixed feedback, and future directions for the Money Scope Podcast.

Feb 16, 2024 • 19min
Ep. 7 Case Conference: Big decisions with real money
In this episode, we follow the stories of two distinct investors facing unique challenges. First, meet a plastic surgeon in the high-flying tech-driven world of 1997. With a high-risk tolerance and a flourishing practice, this surgeon believes they can conquer the market. However, as the dot-com bubble looms, they must navigate the fine line between risk and reward, teaching us vital lessons about diversification, leverage, and the challenges of the market. Next, explore the journey of a savvy business owner who sold their company at just the right time, amassing substantial cash. Cautious due to past stock market losses, this investor seeks to protect their newfound wealth. We discuss the delicate balance of risk tolerance, financial independence, and how to construct a portfolio that aligns with individual objectives. Throughout these stories, listeners will gain insights into asset allocation, the psychology of risk, and the importance of rebalancing during market turbulence. To discover principles that will help you make informed investment decisions and steer your financial future toward success, tune in today! Key Points From This Episode: (0:01:21) Case study one: a plastic surgeon with high-risk tolerance and a successful practice. (0:02:12) Why they should diversify investments and avoid excessive amounts of risk. (0:05:10) How human bias plays into decision-making in our first case study. (0:07:31) An essential lesson from our first case: know your risk tolerance. (0:11:28) Case study two: an entrepreneur who sold their business and has a significant amount of cash on hand. (0:12:13) How they should structure their portfolio to safeguard their financial health. (0:15:55) Benefits of rebalancing and why it is vital, even during a volatile market. (0:17:59) Closing comments and key takeaways. Links From Today’s Episode: https://moneyscope.ca/2024/02/16/ep-7-case-conference-big-decisions-with-real-money/ Benjamin Felix — https://www.pwlcapital.com/author/benjamin-felix/ Benjamin on X — https://twitter.com/benjaminwfelix Benjamin on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminwfelix/ Dr. Mark Soth (The Loonie Doctor) — https://www.looniedoctor.ca/ Dr. Mark on X — https://twitter.com/LoonieDoctor

19 snips
Feb 9, 2024 • 2h 1min
Ep. 7: Portfolio Design & Management
Explore the intricacies of portfolio planning, execution, and maintenance as we dissect the critical aspect of wealth management. Uncover the dangers of volatility and behavioral risks and discover strategies to safeguard your financial health. Assess your risk tolerance and automate tasks to craft a well-balanced portfolio. Learn about asset allocation options and vital steps for effective portfolio maintenance. Navigate the complexities of portfolio management with confidence and make informed decisions about your financial health!

Feb 2, 2024 • 37min
Ep. 6 Case Conference: This Investment is Hot
In this podcast episode, the hosts discuss the looming recession and why it shouldn't worry investors. They explore different investment strategies and rational decision making. They also delve into the challenges of switching to a lower cost investment model and the importance of financial compassion. The chapter covers onboarding new clients, donating appreciated securities and spotting investment opportunities. Lastly, they caution against investing in high growth industries without considering when to sell.

44 snips
Jan 26, 2024 • 1h 18min
Ep. 6: Key Investing Concepts
In this podcast, the hosts discuss the basics of investment strategy and why investing is important. They explore the differences between investing and gambling, the speculative nature of investments, and the concept of risk. They also dive into financial assets, stocks and bonds, and the efficient market hypothesis. The importance of diversification, passive and active investing, and understanding investment costs are also covered. Overall, it's an informative and entertaining episode about key investing concepts.

Jan 19, 2024 • 23min
Ep. 5 Case Conference: Debt, Saving, Investing
A recent graduate with significant debt seeks advice on saving and investing. The podcast discusses building financial security, controlling spending, and making informed decisions. It explores the dilemma of paying off debt vs. investing in the corporation and emphasizes personal perspectives in financial decision-making.

10 snips
Jan 12, 2024 • 1h 8min
Ep. 5: Debt, Saving, & Investing
Explore the journey of navigating debt, savings, and investing at different stages of life. Discover the emotional weight of debt, distinctions between good and bad debt, and tips for financial resilience. Learn about the relationship between saving, investments, and risk, as well as the importance of time horizons and considering taxes. Build a solid financial platform and empower yourself to live the life you want, both now and in the future!