Canada in the Crosshairs: Hard Markets, High Rates, and Hidden Opportunities

In this episode of the Global Thinking Podcast, host Rob Duncan sits down with Matthew Barasch, Senior Portfolio Manager at RBC Dominion Securities, for a candid, wide-ranging look at the realities of investing in today's market environment. Barasch calls this one of the toughest years of his 25-year career — a market defined by narrow leadership, stubborn inflation, and a handful of tech and gold names carrying the load while everything else fights to keep up.

But beneath the volatility, Barasch sees a shift taking shape. He argues the worst may be behind Canada, pointing to improving job data, a more pro-growth federal budget, and the long-term lift from the country's massive immigration wave. With potential growth now outpacing the U.S., Canada may be better positioned than investors think.

The conversation digs into the Bank of Canada's rate-cut trajectory, the pressure cooker inside the U.S. Federal Reserve, and the implications for housing, consumers, and credit markets. Barasch spotlights high-quality Canadian names being overlooked, and offers a clear-eyed take on the gold market — a volatile but increasingly relevant refuge in a world drowning in debt.

Smart, direct, and refreshingly honest, this episode cuts through the noise to show where Canadian investors can still find solid footing — and where caution remains essential.

Chapters:

00:03:00 - Guest Introduction: Matthew Barasch

00:06:00 - Canadian Economic Outlook

00:09:00 - Role of Canadian Energy and Materials

00:12:00 - US Large Cap and Tech Concentration

00:15:00 - Market Challenges and Opportunities

00:18:00 - Impact of AI on Investments

00:21:00 - Global Financials and Economic Climate

00:24:00 - Future of Interest Rates

00:27:00 - International Equities and Market Potential

00:30:00 - Client Concerns and Market Sentiment

00:33:00 - Investment Strategies and Risk Management

00:36:00 - The Role of Technology in Finance

00:39:00 - Global Market Trends and Predictions

00:42:00 - Closing Thoughts and Recommendations

00:45:00 - Book Recommendations and Personal Insights

00:48:00 - Final Remarks and Episode Wrap-Up

00:51:00 - Outro and Call to Action

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For any questions, comments or suggested topics please reach out to Rob Duncan, [e-mail]