Good morning! Discover the latest trends and insights in this month’s Invested newsletter! From geopolitical shifts to commodity surges and evolving leadership in philanthropy, this month’s newsletter explores the forces shaping markets, policy, and purpose-driven capital. Inside, we spotlight the growing role of private foundations in mental health funding, examine Canada’s high-stakes election, track the latest in natural resources, and celebrate the impact of women in family offices in recognition of International Women’s Day. Happy reading!
INSIGHTS FROM THE VIEWPOINT FOUNDATION
EXPLORING PHILANTHROPIC TRENDS & IMPACTFUL INITIATIVES
Catalysts for Change: The Role of Private Foundations in Funding Mental Health Care in Canada
Canada’s mental health system faces persistent gaps due to historical underfunding, fragmented jurisdictions, and systemic barriers. While governments remain key, private foundations are stepping in—funding innovation, driving research, and scaling solutions. Their flexibility and collaborative power are reshaping care. Can private philanthropy succeed where government efforts have long fallen short?
VIEWPOINT SPOTLIGHT
INSIGHTS FROM CIO SCOTT SMITH
Canada’s Crossroads: An Upcoming Election to Ignite a New Economic Era
Canada’s 2025 election has taken a dramatic turn: Mark Carney replaced Trudeau and revived the Liberals’ chances with centrist reforms, while Poilievre’s pro-business platform still resonates strongly. As the country faces a U.S. trade war, economic stagnation, and national unity risks, voters must choose a path forward. Can Carney’s comeback stop Poilievre’s surge and reshape Canada’s future?
U.S. Hits the Brakes, Germany Hits the Accelerator
The U.S. economy is cooling as fiscal tightening and a weakening labor market hint at a short-term growth shock. Meanwhile, Germany is embracing massive stimulus, unveiling a €500B infrastructure plan and defense spending boost. As markets shift, international equities—especially German—are gaining appeal over pricey U.S. stocks. Is it time to rotate out of U.S. equities and into global opportunities?
MARCH’S INVESTMENT PULSE
ELEMENTS IN MOTION
Alberta Has Nearly Six Times the Natural Gas It Thought, Putting Canada Among World’s Top 10
Alberta’s proven natural gas reserves have surged nearly sixfold to 130 trillion cubic feet, boosting Canada into the global top 10. As U.S. shale growth slows and top-tier drilling sites dwindle, Alberta’s energy sector looks increasingly attractive to investors. In a recent Financial Post article, the case is made that with abundant reserves and economic potential, it may be time for U.S. capital to look north.
Copper to Hit $12,000 This Year, Say Major Trading Groups
Copper prices are poised to break records above $12,000/tonne in 2025, driven by tight supply, surging U.S. demand, and looming Trump-era tariffs. Trading giants predict strong gains as the metal’s role in power grids and tech grows. Meanwhile, futures markets for battery metals like lithium and cobalt are expanding. Will copper be the next commodity supercycle winner? Check out this article from Financial Times for more info.
Trade War Uncertainty Douses Once-Hot Uranium Stocks
Uranium stocks are stumbling in 2025 after a strong run, hit by U.S.-Canada trade tensions, possible easing of Russian sanctions, and uncertainty around Trump’s tariff plans. Weaker energy demand from AI advances in China adds pressure, while investors stay sidelined amid the volatility. As reported by the Financial Post, is uranium’s boom over—or just taking a breather before the next surge?
PODCAST PICK
UNLOCKING INSIGHTS, ONE EPISODE AT A TIME
Jim Millstein on the Massive Risks of any ‘Mar-a-Lago Accord’
Trump’s push for higher tariffs and U.S. industrial revival is underpinned by a broader vision: allies pay for security and market access, while America cuts debt and boosts manufacturing via a weaker dollar. But is it coherent—or risky? Guggenheim’s Jim Millstein weighs in on this episode of Bloomberg Odd Lots, also discussing the future of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Is Trump’s economic strategy bold vision or dangerous gamble?
MORE TO EXPLORE
CURATED READS FOR THE INQUISITIVE
‘Ideas Are Gender-Blind’: Three Women Who Are Excelling in Family Offices
In recognition of International Women’s Day on March 8th, this article from Canadian Family Offices spotlights how women are reshaping the family office world with empathy, emotional intelligence, and long-term vision. Leaders like Chris Clarke, Helen Kearns, and Shelley Forsythe share how relational leadership and financial expertise are transforming the industry. Are women the future of family office leadership?
Never Root for a Recession
This article from Of Dollars And Data explores how market crashes may look like golden opportunities for young investors, but they often come with lasting downsides—job losses, lower lifetime earnings, and reduced savings that outweigh stock discounts. Short-term gains rarely offset long-term setbacks. Instead of hoping for a downturn, focus on preparation: diversify your portfolio, strengthen your network, and manage your budget. Are you truly ready for a crash?