Physician Investment Guide
Build wealth systematically
Investment Fundamentals for Physicians
Physicians have significant earning potential but limited time for investment research. Understanding the RRSP vs TFSA decision is your first step - then build a simple, diversified portfolio that grows automatically without constant attention.
Focus on low-cost index funds, appropriate asset allocation, and consistent contributions rather than timing the market. For incorporated physicians, corporate investment strategies offer additional tax-advantaged growth opportunities.
Sample Asset Allocations by Career Stage
| Career Stage | Canadian Equity | US/Intl Equity | Bonds | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residency (25-30) | 25% | 65% | 10% | Aggressive |
| Early Practice (30-40) | 25% | 55% | 20% | Growth |
| Mid-Career (40-50) | 20% | 50% | 30% | Balanced |
| Pre-Retirement (50-60) | 20% | 40% | 40% | Conservative |
| Retirement (60+) | 15% | 35% | 50% | Income Focus |
Investment Principles
Diversification
Spread investments across asset classes, geographies, and sectors to manage risk.
Low-Cost Funds
Use index ETFs with low MERs that outperform most actively managed funds over time.
Asset Allocation
Match your stock/bond mix to timeline - more equities young, more bonds later.
Stay the Course
Ignore market noise and maintain strategy through ups and downs for long-term success.
Common Mistakes
- • Waiting to invest until student debt is fully paid
- • Paying high fees to advisors selling mutual funds
- • Trying to time the market or pick individual stocks
- • Not maximizing registered accounts (RRSP, TFSA)
- • Panic selling during market corrections
- • Concentrating too heavily in Canadian stocks
Keys to Success
- • Start investing immediately - even small amounts compound
- • Use low-cost index funds or all-in-one ETFs
- • Automate contributions monthly to stay disciplined
- • Maximize RRSP for tax savings in high-income years
- • Rebalance annually - don't check portfolio daily
- • Work with fee-only fiduciary advisors if needed
More in Early Career
Continue exploring topics in this category
Explore Other Topics
Discover more resources for your financial journey
Turn Your Wealth Into Meaningful Impact
Whether you want to build a legacy, involve your family, or support causes close to your heart, our team will guide you every step of the way.
Let's design a philanthropic strategy that reflects your values - today and for generations to come.