Canada had third-largest increase in total government debt (relative to the economy) among 40 high-income countries

The Deterioration of Canada’s Finances Internationally finds that from 2014 to 2024 Canada had third-largest increase in total government debt (relative to the economy) among 40 high-income countries.

Federal government should reform capital gains taxes to spur economic growth

Capital Gains Should Not Be Taxed Nominally finds that taxing capital gains nominally is unfair, arbitrarily gives rise to inconsistent tax rates from year to year, and is economically inefficient. Put simply, taxing nominal capital gains is akin to taxing fictitious income, which over time leads to less investment, fewer job opportunities, and lower wages and growth.

Reforming capital gains 'rollover' rules would have positive impact on financing for entrepreneurs

Capital Gains Tax Rollovers in Canada finds that by enabling an entrepreneur or investor to defer capital gains taxes by reinvesting the proceeds from the sale of one asset into a new similar asset within a specific period of time—what’s known as a rollover—generates additional entrepreneurial activities and savings. In fact, allowing capital gains tax rollovers in Canada would have a material positive impact on entrepreneurial finance for angel investors, equity crowdfunders, and venture capital and private equity funds.

Commentary and Blog Posts

Carney government’s housing plan poses major risks to taxpayers

(Appeared in the Globe and Mail) by Jake Fuss and Austin Thompson

Canada added a record high 1.2 million new residents—more than double the previous record in 2019.

Ford government turns on spending taps and again fails to balance budget

by Jake Fuss and Grady Munro

The government plans to run a $14.6 billion deficit this year.

Carney government should end damaging energy policies amid separatist sentiment in Alberta

(Appeared in the National Post) by Tegan Hill

Alberta has not received equalization payments since 1964/65.

Premier Eby’s proposed legislation won’t cut red tape—but will give him more power

(Appeared in the Vancouver Sun) by Tegan Hill

The cost of regulations (compliance costs, etc.) in the province increased from $6.7 billion in 2014 to $8.3 billion in 2024.

Five key issues—besides Trump’s tariffs—the Carney government should tackle

(Appeared in the Ottawa Sun) by Jake Fuss and Grady Munro

Median employment earnings in all 10 provinces ranked lower than in every U.S. state.

Carney’s new cabinet and media interviews fail to provide clarity

by Jason Clemens and Tegan Hill

It’s widely agreed that Bill C-69 and its evaluation criteria make it almost impossible to build new pipelines in Canada.

Prime minister must excise terrible energy policies

(Appeared in the Calgary Sun) by Kenneth P. Green

If Ottawa simplified the project review process, it could help Canada access more lucrative markets.

Saskatchewan government should axe damaging ‘capital tax’

(Appeared in the Saskatoon StarPhoenix) by Matthew Lau

For large financial institutions, the capital tax is 4.0 per cent of taxable capital allocated in the province.

High tax rates aren’t just for the rich in B.C.

by Ben Eisen

For some parents earning just over $50,000, this rate can climb as high as 70 per cent.

Ford government should push for hospital funding reform in Ontario

(Appeared in the Hamilton Spectator) by Mackenzie Moir

The province's 23.6-week wait was the longest in the 30-plus years of published data.

Here’s how the New Brunswick government can help reduce energy costs

(Appeared in the New Brunswick Telegraph-Journal) by Alex Whalen and Elmira Aliakbari

Currently, 27 per cent of the province’s electrical generation comes from either natural gas or coal and coke.

STAY UP TO DATE

SUPPORT THE FRASER INSTITUTE

The Fraser Institute has been ranked the #1 think tank in Canada, and the 14th best think tank out of more than 8,200 around the world! We keep Canadians – and decision-makers! – informed.

But we are only as strong as our supporters. We do not accept government grants or payments for research - we depend on individuals like you to continue our good work! We are a charity - your donation entitles you to a generous tax credit at tax time!

Donate Now

The Fraser Institute's mission is to improve the quality of life for Canadians, their families and future generations by studying, measuring and broadly communicating the effects of government policies, entrepreneurship and choice on their well-being. Email is one of the best tools we have to accomplish these goals. If you no longer wish to receive e-mail updates from us, click here to unsubscribe.

Fraser Institute 4th Floor, 1770 Burrard Street Vancouver, BC V6J 3G7