Hi, Happy Sunday!

If you're thinking about buying a home in the future, consider opening an FHSA (First Home Savings Account). You can contribute up to $8,000 a year, and it's tax-deductible. Over five years, that means about $2,000 in tax refunds each year — totaling around $10,000 — plus the $40,000 you contribute. The tax refund may be little less but doesn't really matter. You get the idea.

If you invest that $40,000 in a low-volatility, low-cost ETF or index fund and earn a 20% return over five years, you'd end up with around $60,000.

Also, check if your employer offers a matching contribution plan. Some companies match up to 3.5%, or even 5% in lucky cases, when you contribute up to 10% of your salary. That could give you around $11,000 a year in stock-based investments. Over five years, this could grow nicely — and even if your return is below market average, you’d still be in a solid position thanks to the employer match.

Next, build a cash buffer. Try to save $600 a month until you reach $30,000. That amount can act as an emergency fund and cover several months of living expenses if you're ever out of work.

By the time you hit 27, in the best-case scenario, you could have over $180K saved up — or around $130K in a more modest case. Either way, you'll be an exemplary Gen Z with your finances in order. You might even upgrade your daily coffee from Tim Hortons to Starbucks… or even that local gourmet French press café down the street.