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Find any page or article on CheckFirst as well as news releases, investor alerts, enforcement hearings, decisions and orders from the Alberta Securities Commission website.

Investing basics blog

  • Investing basics
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  • investor protections
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  • Types of investment scams

From text to pitch: How messaging apps have become a hotbed for investment scams

A polished social media ad and a friendly invite to an “investors” messaging group might seem like an exciting first step towards a lucrative financial opportunity. But wait, this could be the bait of a well-orchestrated scam. According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, in 2024, Canadians lost $310 million to investment fraud – with many scams taking place online, including…
son helping senior parent with finance
  • Seniors
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  • Types of investment scams

Protecting our seniors: How to prevent elder financial abuse

June is Seniors Month in Canada, a time to recognize the value, resilience, and continued contributions of older adults in our communities. It’s also an opportunity to talk about one of the fastest-growing threats to their well-being: elder financial abuse. According to the 2024 CSA Investor Index, 36 per cent of Canadians say they are aware of at least one…
woman reading etf and mutual fund fact sheet
  • Finances
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  • Investing basics

How to read a fund fact sheet: Navigating mutual funds and ETFs

April 2025 marked the most volatile month for markets since COVID, pushing investor anxiety to new highs, as many stocks and other investment assets rapidly decreased and increased in value. With inflation and global trade uncertainty on people’s minds, it is easy to feel anxious. In times like these, going back to the basics — like portfolio diversification — can…
meme coins crypto
  • Finances
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  • Investing basics
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  • investor protections

Meme coin frenzy: How viral crypto coins could be pump-and-dump scams

On December 4, 2024, viral TikTok sensation Hailey Welch launched her crypto coin named after her infamous catchphrase "Hawk Tuah." Interestingly, Hawk Tuah Coin, or the $HAWK token, was not created with any clearly defined purpose or utility. As noted by Welch’s publicist, it existed solely as a way to bring fans together. Driven by hype and fan frenzy on…
real estate crowdfunding
  • Investing basics
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  • investor protections

Real estate crowdfunding: What you need to know before you invest

Real estate crowdfunding has gained popularity as an easy way to invest in property without committing a large amount of money. While these opportunities can be appealing, it’s important to understand what you’re signing up for and the level of risk you are taking. This article breaks down real estate crowdfunding and key factors to consider when making investment decisions.…
balancing investment portfolio
  • Finances
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  • Investing basics

Portfolio rebalancing: How to manage your investments for long-term success

The past year was a standout for financial markets. Stock markets surged, retail trading boomed, and optimism seemed to drive investment decisions. Whether you’re a new or experienced DIY investor, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of a bull market run and lose sight of your long-term investing strategy. Achieving your financial goals requires understanding yourself as…

From text to pitch: How messaging apps have become a hotbed for investment scams
From text to pitch: How messaging apps have become a hotbed for investment scams

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Find any page or article on CheckFirst as well as news releases, investor alerts, enforcement hearings, decisions and orders from the Alberta Securities Commission website.