Chapter 3: Overview of Economics

In this section

• What is Economics? Key Concepts for Canadian Mutual Fund Representatives
  Explore the foundations of economics, including scarcity, microeconomics, and macroeconomics, and learn how these principles guide investment decisions and client communication in the Canadian mutual fund landscape.
• How is Economic Growth Measured? Economic Indicators and Real-World Applications
  Learn how economic growth is measured through key metrics such as GDP, nominal vs. real GDP, per capita estimates, and alternative indicators like HDI, while exploring practical examples, case studies, and best practices for mutual fund representatives in Canada.
• What are the Phases of the Business Cycle?
  Explore the four main phases of the business cycle—expansion, peak, contraction, and trough—and learn how they influence investment decisions, especially in the Canadian regulatory environment.
• Key Labour Market Indicators: Understanding Employment, Participation, and Economic Impact
  An in-depth look at how labour market indicators—such as employment rate, unemployment rate, and labour force participation—shed light on economic performance, consumer confidence, and investment strategies.
• What Role do Interest Rates Play?
  Explore how interest rates shape borrowing, investment, economic growth, and inflation within Canada’s financial landscape, and learn practical strategies for anticipating market reactions and aligning portfolio decisions.
• Nature of Money and Inflation: Key Concepts for Successful Financial Planning
  Discover the essential functions of money, explore how inflation influences purchasing power, and learn effective strategies to navigate economic shifts in the Canadian market.
• How do Fiscal and Monetary Policies and International Economics Impact the Economy?
  Discover how government budgets, central bank decisions, and global economics shape markets, influence investment returns, and affect daily financial decisions in Canada.
• Additional Topics in Economics
  Explore core economic concepts like supply and demand, market structures, productivity gains, commodity markets, and sustainable investing, with insights into Canadian regulations and global applications.