The Advisors Table Podcast

AdvisorsTablePodcast

Most of the decisions that shape the outcome happen long before the paperwork. They happen quietly. Behind closed doors. With consequences that don’t reset. Soon, those conversations won’t be private anymore. If you’re navigating complexity, you’ll want a seat at this table.

  1. 3 Tax Cuts That Weren’t Tax Cuts

    MAY 14

    3 Tax Cuts That Weren’t Tax Cuts

    Governments love announcing tax cuts — but the headline rarely tells the full story. In just four months, three different governments — Federal, NDP, and Conservative — announced major tax breaks. But once you look past the press releases, many of these “savings” either shrink dramatically, trigger hidden tax costs, or quietly increase taxes somewhere else. In this episode, we break down the incomplete story behind these political tax promises. From reduced tax credits to retroactive corporate tax consequences and bracket creep, we show how the real impact is often buried deep inside the legislation — not the headline. In this episode, we break down: • Why tax cuts often come with hidden offsets elsewhere• How the federal 1% tax cut reduced the real benefit of common tax credits• Why the promised $825 savings was actually closer to $425• How Ontario’s small business rate drop can trigger retroactive tax on historical corporate earnings• Why B.C.’s frozen tax brackets quietly increase taxes through bracket creep• How government headlines often miss the real financial impact hidden in the legislation Don’t let political marketing dictate your financial decisions. Watch now to understand what these “tax cuts” actually mean for your money. Links: Instagram: @advisorstablepodcast LinkedIn: The Advisors Table Podcast Looking for trusted tax advice? Connect with Sankalp (Sunny) Jaggi at Cedar Consulting Group. Email: sunny@cedargroup.caWebsite: cedargroup.ca Subscribe if you want practical breakdowns of real tax scenarios. Comment below — have these recent “tax cuts” actually made a difference in your finances? Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro: The Truth Behind Government Tax Cuts01:08 – Three Governments, Three Different Tax Cuts02:26 – Why Tax Cut Headlines Mislead the Public03:18 – Federal 1% Tax Cut Explained04:17 – Hidden Reduction in Tax Credits for Families05:14 – Why the Real Savings Are Much Lower Than Advertised06:33 – How Tax Experts Catch What Politicians Leave Out08:35 – Ontario’s Small Business Tax Rate Drop Breakdown10:06 – How Corporate & Personal Tax Integration Actually Works12:04 – Why Business Owners Eventually Pay More Tax Personally13:14 – The Retroactive Tax Increase Nobody Is Talking About15:00 – Example: How a $1M Corporation Gets Hit Harder16:44 – Why Governments Market Tax Cuts Without Full Disclosure17:10 – B.C.’s Sneaky Tax Increase Through Frozen Tax Brackets19:06 – How Federal, Ontario & B.C. Changes Cancel Each Other Out21:11 – Final Advice: Don’t Trust Tax Headlines Without Research

    22 min
  2. Don’t Buy A Car In 2026 Until You Learn CRA’s Rules

    MAY 7

    Don’t Buy A Car In 2026 Until You Learn CRA’s Rules

    Buying a car through your corporation doesn’t make it “free.” And in many cases, it can actually cost you more. In this episode, we break down one of the most common tax myths among business owners — the idea of the “full write-off.” While it sounds simple, the reality involves strict CRA limits, taxable benefits, and hidden personal tax consequences that most people don’t account for. We walk through how corporate vehicle ownership actually works, where the numbers fall apart, and why what seems like a smart tax move can quickly turn into an expensive mistake. In this episode, we break down: • Why a corporate vehicle is not a “full write-off”• How CRA caps limit deductions on purchases and leases• Why personal use creates taxable benefits• How standby charges increase your personal tax bill• Leasing vs. buying — and how each impacts taxes• Why mileage reimbursement is often the simpler, more efficient strategy Don’t assume the government is paying for your car. Watch this before you sign anything — it could save you thousands. Links: Instagram: @advisorstablepodcast LinkedIn: The Advisors Table Podcast Looking for trusted tax advice? Connect with Sankalp (Sunny) Jaggi at Cedar Consulting Group. Email: sunny@cedargroup.caWebsite: cedargroup.ca Subscribe if you want practical breakdowns of real tax scenarios. Comment below — have you ever considered buying a car through your corporation? Timestamps: 00:00 – BMW Write-Off Myth Explained02:16 – Company Cars & Hidden Tax Costs04:14 – 2026 Vehicle Write-Off Limits & Caps05:23 – Lease Payment & Interest Deduction Limits06:36 – HST Recovery Rules for Company Cars08:15 – Employee Taxable Benefits on Luxury Vehicles09:37 – Standby Charge: 2% Monthly Tax Rule11:55 – Operating Cost Benefit & $0.34/km Rule14:22 – Why Company Cars Can Become More Expensive15:24 – Leasing a Vehicle Through a Corporation18:12 – Paying Your Own Gas & Repair Costs19:01 – Reducing Taxable Benefits With Business Use22:17 – CRA Logbook Requirements & Vehicle Audits25:09 – Avoiding Taxable Benefits the Right Way28:12 – Trades Workers, Pickup Trucks & On-Call Use31:01 – Shareholder Benefit Risks & CRA Penalties34:02 – EV Incentives & Corporate Tax Advantages36:08 – Using Your Personal Vehicle for Business38:23 – Real Client Example: Mileage Reimbursement Strategy40:04 – Final Thoughts: Calculating the Best Car Ownership Structure

    41 min
  3. We Checked Carney’s Math. He’s Wrong.

    MAY 1

    We Checked Carney’s Math. He’s Wrong.

    Canada just released its 2026 Spring Economic Update — and at first glance, things look better. The deficit is down by $11 billion. But when you dig deeper, the story changes. In this episode, we break down what’s really driving the numbers — and why the “improvement” may have more to do with timing and external factors than actual policy changes. From unspent government commitments to a temporary boost from oil prices, we unpack how the headline doesn’t reflect the full picture. We also dive into Canada’s growing $1.42 trillion national debt, how it’s being presented, and what it actually means for taxpayers long term. Plus, we explore why the government is using CPP contributions to improve the appearance of the balance sheet, and the risks involved in the new $25 billion Sovereign Wealth Fund — funded entirely through additional borrowing. In this episode, we uncover: • Why the $11B “deficit reduction” isn’t driven by real policy changes• Why Canada’s debt-to-GDP ratio may be far higher than the headline number• How delayed spending and higher oil prices shaped the update• What Canada’s $1.42 trillion debt and rising interest costs mean in practice• How a $25B sovereign wealth fund is being financed through borrowing — not surplus revenue• Early signals of asset sales and other strategies being discussed to manage long-term deficits Don’t rely on headlines to understand the economy. Watch now to see what the numbers actually mean — and how they could impact your future taxes. Links: Instagram: @advisorstablepodcast LinkedIn: The Advisors Table Podcast Looking for trusted tax advice? Connect with Sankalp (Sunny) Jaggi at Cedar Consulting Group. Email: sunny@cedargroup.caWebsite: cedargroup.ca Subscribe if you want practical breakdowns of real tax scenarios. Comment below — what do you think is the biggest risk to Canada’s economy right now? Timestamps: 00:00 – Canada’s Spring Economic Update Overview00:25 – Rising Debt & Interest Cost Concerns00:51 – Pension Contributions & Taxpayer Ownership Discussion01:06 – Initial Reactions to the Economic Update01:42 – No Changes in Personal or Corporate Taxes02:01 – Canada’s Ongoing Structural Deficit02:49 – Has the New Government Really Changed Anything?03:11 – Deficit Projection Drops from $78B to $68B04:19 – Delayed Spending & Impact of Rising Oil Prices05:34 – Debt-to-GDP Ratio: Canada vs. G7 Countries06:18 – Real vs. Reported Debt (10% vs. ~41%)07:32 – Breaking Down Canada’s $1.42 Trillion Debt10:19 – Growing Deficit & Unsustainable Borrowing Trend11:45 – Interest Payments Surge Toward $81B14:45 – Canada’s New Sovereign Wealth Fund Explained17:02 – $25B Fund: Investing Borrowed Money?19:02 – Risks of Government Involvement in Private Projects20:11 – Selling Government Assets to Reduce Deficit

    23 min
  4. Canada Wants $500K to Let You Leave | Majority, Exit Tax, Bare Trusts

    APR 22

    Canada Wants $500K to Let You Leave | Majority, Exit Tax, Bare Trusts

    The political landscape in Canada just underwent a seismic shift. Following the April 13 by-elections, the government secured a majority in the House of Commons. This means the “cooperation” era is over, and the administration can now fast-track major tax changes — including expanding CRA audit powers and codifying controversial Bare Trust rules. In this episode, we unpack the proposal discussed at the recent Liberal convention to charge graduates a $500,000 tax for leaving the country to fight “brain drain.” We also dive into the newly passed Bare Trust legislation (Bill C-15), which requires mandatory filings for joint accounts, co-signed mortgages, and even shared car ownership — or face penalties tied to the value of the asset. In this episode, we break down: • Why $2.4 billion in government spending translated to only a $0.05 drop at the pump instead of the promised $0.10• What happens to tax law when the government no longer needs compromises to pass legislation• The proposed “$500K Exit Fee” and why critics argue it could discourage mobility and entrepreneurship• How departure tax and unrealized gains taxation already impact Canadians leaving the country• Why joint bank accounts and co-signed investment properties may now require mandatory Bare Trust filings• The growing compliance risks and penalties tied to Bare Trust reporting Don’t let government marketing fool you. The fine print is where the real costs are buried. Watch now to protect your assets and your exit. Links: CRA’s 2026 Rule Punishes You For Helping Family 3 CRA Powers Coming in 2026 Will Ruin You They Want Your Kid To Pay This Sign the Petition: c.org/vPVFWkJQTy Looking for trusted tax advice? Connect with Sankalp (Sunny) Jaggi at Cedar Consulting Group. Email: sunny@cedargroup.caWebsite: cedargroup.ca Subscribe if you want practical breakdowns of real tax scenarios. Comment below — do you think policies like the proposed “exit tax” would keep talent in Canada or push more people out? Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro: Major Political Shift in Canada00:42 – What a Majority Government Means01:31 – Fuel Tax Cut & $2.4B Spending02:19 – Bill C-15 & Recent Changes03:10 – How Majority Power Works04:12 – Why Majority Changes Everything05:28 – Upcoming Economic & Tax Changes06:46 – CRA Powers & Policy Concerns07:31 – Fuel Tax Impact on Gas Prices09:21 – Are Tax Cuts Actually Helping?11:01 – GST Holiday vs. Current Spending12:43 – Liberal Convention & Big Ideas13:22 – Brain Drain Problem Explained14:56 – $500K Exit Tax Proposal Debate16:05 – Existing Departure Tax Reality23:42 – Talent Leaving Canada (Stats & Impact)25:42 – Bare Trust Rules Explained31:06 – Who Needs to File & Exceptions35:16 – Compliance Risks & Penalties

    39 min
  5. APR 16

    Is Your Accountant Actually Helping You?

    Are you working with a tax preparer or a true advisor? Most professionals and entrepreneurs only see their accountant once a year — to report what has already happened. But in the world of high-stakes finance, historical reporting isn’t the same as proactive strategy. In this episode, we sit down with Junaid Usmani (CPA, CA) to explore the importance of proactive planning, why hiring the right accountant can lead to better financial outcomes, and how utilizing your Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption can save you millions. In this episode, we cover: • How high earners still struggle to build savings• How lifestyle inflation quietly erodes wealth• The difference between filing taxes vs. planning ahead• Why last-minute decisions (buying property, selling a business) lead to poor outcomes• How you can benefit from the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption• The importance of having advisors who actually communicate• How regular check-ins can prevent costly mistakes It’s not about how much you make. It’s about how well you plan. Links: Instagram: @advisorstablepodcast LinkedIn: The Advisors Table Podcast Looking for trusted tax advice? Connect with Sankalp (Sunny) Jaggi at Cedar Consulting Group. Email: sunny@cedargroup.caWebsite: cedargroup.ca Subscribe if you want practical breakdowns of real tax scenarios. Comment below — what’s the one question you’ve always wanted to ask your accountant but felt was “too basic”? Timestamps: 00:00 – High earners living paycheck to paycheck01:30 – Accountants’ insight into clients’ lives02:17 – Tax preparer vs. real advisor difference03:00 – Why personalized financial planning matters04:00 – Setting expectations with new clients04:22 – Proactive vs. reactive tax planning06:22 – Planning early for major life goals07:00 – Importance of financial conversations & awareness08:05 – Building your advisory team (lawyer, planner, etc.)10:13 – Specialized professionals vs. DIY mistakes12:12 – Business agreements & legal protection14:23 – Different types of financial advisors19:54 – What financial planners actually do25:29 – Bad advice, audits & real-world consequences33:27 – Role of a tax advisor & long-term planning44:31 – Why good teams still fail (communication & cost-cutting)54:36 – Ideal check-ins & how to stay financially on track

    59 min
  6. APR 7

    The IRS and CRA Double Tax Trap for Canadians

    In this episode, we sit down with a U.S. tax specialist to uncover why forming a U.S. LLC — often promoted as a simple and tax-efficient structure — can quickly turn into a costly mistake for Canadian residents. While LLCs offer flexibility and liability protection in the United States, the way Canadian tax law treats these entities creates a serious mismatch that can lead to unexpected reporting obligations, double taxation, and significant penalties. In this episode, we break down: • Why U.S. LLCs are often unsuitable for Canadian residents• Why the CRA and IRS classify LLCs differently — and how it can lead to double taxation• How “disregarded entities” work in the U.S. and why Canada doesn’t recognize them the same way• The hidden reporting requirements, including Form 5472 and Canadian foreign disclosure filings• How missed foreign disclosure filings can trigger severe cross-border penalties• The impact of post-2018 U.S. tax rules on non-U.S. LLC owners• Structuring strategies, including blocker corporations, to reduce cross-border tax friction• How the Canada–U.S. Tax Treaty can lower withholding taxes when structured properly If you’re a Canadian looking to buy rental property in the U.S. or start a business across the border, this episode is a critical warning to seek professional advice before signing any contracts. Links: CRA Voluntary Disclosure Program 2025 Explained | What’s Changed & What It Means Looking for trusted tax advice? Connect with Sankalp (Sunny) Jaggi at Cedar Consulting Group. Email: sunny@cedargroup.caWebsite: cedargroup.ca Subscribe if you want practical breakdowns of real tax scenarios. Comment below — have you ever been tempted to form a U.S. LLC based on what you saw online? Timestamps: 00:00 – The $1M mistake: Why Canadians should avoid U.S. LLCs01:18 – Real Case Study: 20 properties and $750,000 in penalties04:56 – What is an LLC? Legal vs. tax definitions05:52 – The appeal: Limited liability and “slip and fall” protection06:40 – How LLCs are taxed: Disregarded entities vs. partnerships08:43 – LLC vs. C-Corp: Understanding the tax differences11:19 – The Disconnect: Why Canada and the U.S. view LLCs differently13:36 – Cross-border strategies: Using “blocker” corporations15:55 – The Ideal Structure: Canadian vs. U.S. ownership setups17:05 – Reducing withholding taxes from 15% to 5% via treaty22:00 – The danger of DIY: Why internet advice leads to tax disasters32:41 – Hidden Costs: Maintenance fees and filing compliance38:00 – The $25,000 Trap: Form 5472 and late filing penalties39:36 – Canadian Compliance: T1134 foreign disclosure requirements46:21 – Fixing the mess: Voluntary disclosure and IRS abatement

    54 min
  7. Immigration Tax Traps That Cost Thousands

    MAR 31

    Immigration Tax Traps That Cost Thousands

    In this episode, we dive into the complex world of Canadian tax residency and the tax traps that many newly immigrated families face unknowingly. From massive penalties for failing to report foreign assets to the hidden tax implications of continuing a business from abroad, we explore why early tax planning is the difference between a successful start and financial ruin in a new country. In this episode, we break down: • How to determine your residency and tax status in the eyes of the CRA• Why Canada taxes you on everything you earn globally — even if you’ve already paid taxes on that income in another country• How failing to disclose foreign properties can lead to massive CRA penalties and gross negligence charges• Why you need to obtain a formal valuation of your assets the day you land• How your foreign company can become a Canadian tax resident• When it makes sense for freelancers and entrepreneurs to start a Canadian corporation to defer taxes and protect against liability If you are moving to Canada or have recently arrived with assets back home, this episode explains the critical steps you need to take before the CRA knocks on your door. Links: Leaving Canada? Here’s What the CRA Wants You to Know Looking for trusted tax advice? Connect with Sankalp (Sunny) Jaggi at Cedar Consulting Group. Email: sunny@cedargroup.caWebsite: cedargroup.ca Subscribe if you want practical breakdowns of real tax scenarios. Did you know that Canada could tax your foreign business even if it has no Canadian customers? Timestamps: 00:00 – $50K Tax Penalty Shock01:05 – Real Case: $100K Mistake02:58 – Biggest Tax Misconceptions04:37 – Immigration Boom & Risks05:49 – Foreign Assets Problem07:24 – When You Become Tax Resident09:34 – Signs You’re Officially Resident11:25 – Why Landing Date Matters13:03 – Worldwide Income Explained14:20 – Net Worth Strategy (CRITICAL)17:05 – Real Estate Tax Mistake22:20 – CRA Audits & Proof Issues25:03 – T1135 & Heavy Penalties30:26 – Foreign Business Risks32:55 – “Mind & Management” Rule41:11 – Tax Treaties & Double Tax55:07 – When to Incorporate in Canada

    1h 2m
  8. Most Wills Fail. Here’s Why

    MAR 17

    Most Wills Fail. Here’s Why

    In this episode, we sit down with barrister and solicitor Hasan Naqvi to uncover why most wills fail — not because the will wasn’t prepared, but because those wills no longer reflect people’s lives or intentions. From handwritten wills and intestacy rules to executor responsibilities and dual-will planning, we explore how wills actually function at death — and where they commonly break down. In this episode, we break down: • What actually makes a will legally valid• What happens when someone dies without a will — and how intestacy rules decide who gets what• Why common-law partners in Ontario can be left with nothing without proper planning• How outdated wills fail to reflect changes in family, wealth, and intention• The true role of an executor — and the complexity, risk, and liability that comes with it• Why probate is required and how it works• The different ways the government can take or control your assets• Why cross-border assets and foreign laws can override your Canadian will If you’ve been putting off updating your will — or haven’t even started one — this episode explains the risks many families only discover when it’s far too late. Links: CRA Takes 80% When You Die Being an Executor Can Cost You Personally Looking for trusted tax advice? Connect with Sankalp (Sunny) Jaggi at Cedar Consulting Group. Email: sunny@cedargroup.caWebsite: cedargroup.ca Subscribe if you want practical breakdowns of real tax scenarios. Do you think most people understand how inheritance laws actually work? Timestamps: 00:00 – Farmer’s tragic story → handwritten will on cloth00:38 – Can handwritten wills be legally valid?01:08 – Introduction to estate & death law discussion01:39 – Detailed farmer accident & dying wish story03:25 – Do wills always need witnesses & lawyers?03:54 – Exception: holographic wills in life-or-death situations04:48 – Is this rule Canada-wide or province-specific?05:13 – What happens if you die without a will?05:32 – Risks of intestacy & government rules06:01 – Purpose of a will & role of executor07:00 – Can government take control of your assets?07:28 – Intestacy hierarchy explained (spouse vs. children)08:50 – Provincial differences in inheritance laws09:18 – When wills fail → outdated wills problem10:55 – Changing beneficiaries & executor risks11:16 – What exactly does an executor do?12:39 – Executor disputes & family conflicts13:31 – Taxes on death & executor liability15:08 – What if executor dies or becomes unavailable?16:30 – Can executor choose which assets to liquidate?17:54 – Can non-family members inherit?19:01 – Tax-efficient will structure → spouse-first strategy22:16 – Separation vs. legal divorce inheritance case23:18 – Lost wills & fire case study25:16 – Are copies / digital wills valid?28:19 – Do common-law partners get inheritance rights?30:18 – Foreign marriages & legal recognition in Canada32:35 – When does government actually take assets?33:06 – Three ways government gets estate assets34:10 – Abandoned assets problem (hidden bank accounts, etc.)36:18 – No will + no heirs = government takes estate37:08 – Court control during disputes38:02 – Extreme family dispute murder case39:43 – Can a murderer inherit an estate?42:13 – Criminal conviction impact on inheritance44:16 – Probate explained from a legal perspective46:11 – Why banks & institutions require probate47:54 – Probate fees & estate valuation process49:35 – Can you probate only specific assets?50:50 – Multiple wills strategy explained52:16 – Wills for different countries & jurisdictions55:30 – Sharia law inheritance vs. personal wills58:53 – Final 3 key action steps for viewers

    1h 1m

About

Most of the decisions that shape the outcome happen long before the paperwork. They happen quietly. Behind closed doors. With consequences that don’t reset. Soon, those conversations won’t be private anymore. If you’re navigating complexity, you’ll want a seat at this table.