Frequently asked questions

- FAQ -

At Pratte Portfolio Management, we understand the importance of clarity and transparency. With over $100 million under management for a diverse client base, and expertise ranging from capital growth to income generation, we're committed to answering all your questions. Our FAQ page is designed to provide you with precise answers to the most frequently asked questions. Each answer reflects our commitment to excellence and our passion for results.
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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Who is Pratte Portfolio Management ?

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Pratte is an independent asset management firm with offices in Montreal and Gatineau. We serve private and institutional clients with investment solutions tailored to their objectives.

What services do you offer?

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We offer private and institutional portfolio management services and investment strategies focused on capital growth and income generation. The choice of a solution takes into account your objectives, investment horizon and risk tolerance.

What products do you offer?

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We offer a range of products including:
- Pratte Global Equity Fund
- Pratte Income Fund
- Growth, Balanced and Conservative mandates

How do you ensure trust and transparency with your customers?

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Our mission is to support our customers with expertise, building relationships based on trust and transparency. Find out more here.

What is your investment approach?

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Our Quant Dynamics approach combines quantitative analysis, data analysis technologies and the expertise of our portfolio managers. It guides investment selection, portfolio construction and risk management. Discover our investment approach.

How can I review your investment returns?

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Fundata reports present our funds’ returns over several periods and specify their reference date. These results apply to the funds shown and do not represent the return of every private portfolio. Past performance does not guarantee future results. View our performance reports.

Who's on your team?

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Our team is made up of exceptional financial specialists, dedicated to helping you achieve your investment goals. Meet our team here.

How are securities selected for your investment funds?

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In the Pratte Global Equity Fund, for example, stocks are selected primarily for their earnings growth potential and resilience to market fluctuations. Our approach aims to offer investors sustained capital growth.

Who are your main customers?

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Our private wealth management service is intended for families, entrepreneurs and professionals who want to entrust their investments to a specialized team. We also serve institutional investors. An initial discussion helps clarify your goals and assess solutions suited to your situation.

How can I keep abreast of current financial trends?

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You can stay on top of the latest financial trends by reading our blog. Our team of experts is constantly on the lookout for global news to keep you informed.

What is the annual RRSP dollar limit for 2026?

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The annual RRSP dollar limit is $33,810 for 2026. New room is generally based on 18% of your 2025 earned income, up to this limit, with applicable adjustments. This amount does not necessarily equal your personal contribution room.

Unused room from previous years and pension-related adjustments affect your available amount. Check your latest notice of assessment or CRA My Account and account for contributions already made before contributing.

What is the advantage of an RRSP?

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One of the benefits of an RRSP is that it allows your money to grow tax-free. Additionally, you can deduct your contribution amount from your total income, thereby reducing your taxable income. The funds invested in an RRSP become taxable upon withdrawal. Therefore, it is recommended to withdraw funds from your RRSP only after retirement when your marginal tax rate is generally lower.

If you have received a salary increase, you may lose certain federal or provincial tax credits. For example, an increase of $1,000 in your annual income could cause you to lose nearly the same amount in tax credits. Therefore, it may be advantageous to invest this surplus in your RRSP to reduce your annual income and thus benefit from these programs or at least not lose them.

Is it possible to use an RRSP to buy a house?

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Yes. The Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) allows eligible individuals to withdraw up to $60,000 from their RRSPs to buy or build a qualifying home. The withdrawal is not included in income when the program’s conditions are met. Eligibility and repayment rules apply; consult Canada Revenue Agency information before making a withdrawal.

Why is it advantageous to contribute to my spouse’s RRSP?

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A spousal RRSP can help distribute retirement income between spouses. Contributions use the contributor’s room. If you contribute in the withdrawal year or either of the two preceding years, attribution rules may require you to pay tax on all or part of the withdrawal. You can contribute until December 31 of the year your spouse turns 71, even if you are older than 71 yourself, provided you have available room.

Can I use the money invested in my RRSP if I go back to school?

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If you want to return to school, there is a program called the Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP). Similar to the HBP, it allows you to withdraw funds, tax-free, from your RRSP to finance your education or that of your spouse. To benefit from the LLP, you or your spouse must be enrolled full-time in an eligible educational program. The maximum you can withdraw is $10,000 per year, up to a total limit of $20,000.

What happens to the RRSP after reaching the age of 71?

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At this stage of your life, you will need to convert the funds invested in your RRSP before December 31 of the year you turn 71 into a Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF). You can also opt for an annuity. Otherwise, the value of the RRSP assets will be included in your income for the year.

What is the annual TFSA dollar limit for 2026?

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The annual TFSA dollar limit is $7,000 for 2026. Your available room may be higher if you have unused room or withdrawals made in the previous year; it is also reduced by contributions made this year.

CRA information is not updated in real time. Calculate your room using statements and transactions from all your financial institutions before contributing.

Does a TFSA withdrawal create new room the following year?

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Yes. The amount withdrawn from your TFSA is added back to your contribution room on January 1 of the following year. A withdrawal does not restore room immediately. Before recontributing, verify your available room using your own statements and transactions; CRA information is not updated in real time.

Should I contribute to an RRSP or a TFSA?

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Since the introduction of the TFSA in 2009, many people have wondered which vehicle, the RRSP or the TFSA, should be prioritized. Several factors may come into play, making it essential to conduct a thorough analysis before making a contribution to either of the two plans. Here are some general guidelines that might help you make an informed decision for your next contribution.

From a strictly tax perspective, if the marginal tax rate at retirement (or at the time of withdrawal) is lower than the marginal tax rate at the time of contribution, opt for the RRSP. Otherwise, it is more advantageous to prioritize the TFSA. In the theoretical case where the rates are equal, the two plans are equivalent. However, the reality is more complex. It can be particularly difficult to predict when and at what marginal tax rate a contribution will be withdrawn. Moreover, an RRSP contribution, thereby reducing the net family income, may allow a household to become eligible for certain tax credits. This is a significant aspect.

It is also important to consider the intended use of the invested funds. If you plan to use these funds for various short or medium-term projects, it is better to prioritize the TFSA. Not only would there be no tax impact upon withdrawal, but the amounts withdrawn create new contribution room the following year in the TFSA, whereas they are lost with the RRSP. If the funds are intended for retirement, it would be relevant to opt for the RRSP, particularly in cases where the marginal tax rate during working years exceeds that at retirement.

In case of doubt, it is recommended to consult a financial advisor. Our financial planning specialists can help you determine whether the TFSA or the RRSP would be the right choice based on your financial situation.

Is it a good idea to borrow to contribute to a TFSA or an RRSP?

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It is possible for an individual to take out a loan to invest in a TFSA or an RRSP, known as a leveraging strategy. This option should be carefully evaluated as each person's financial profile is different. It is often more advantageous to save up to eventually invest in a TFSA or an RRSP rather than borrowing. Additionally, interest on the loan is not deductible.

Would you like to discuss your portfolio or investment objectives? Contact our team in Montreal or Gatineau to introduce your situation and request a meeting.

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