Investment Calculator Canada

Model your portfolio growth with Canadian-specific assumptions. See how regular TFSA or RRSP contributions compound over time.

Investment Growth Calculator

Start Your Savings With KOHO — 5% on Every Dollar

Build your investment cash buffer in KOHO earning up to 5%. Use code 45ET55JSYA for a $100 sign-up bonus.

Historical Canadian Market Returns

Asset ClassHistorical Annual ReturnRisk LevelBest Held In
S&P/TSX Composite (Canada)~7.5% (30-yr avg)Medium-HighTFSA/RRSP
S&P 500 (US, CAD)~10.3% (30-yr avg)Medium-HighRRSP (avoids WHT)
XEQT/VEQT (Global equity)~7–9% (projected)Medium-HighTFSA/RRSP
VGRO/XGRO (80/20)~6–8% (projected)MediumTFSA/RRSP
Canadian bonds~3–4%Low-MediumRRSP
HISA (KOHO/EQ Bank)3–5% (current)Very LowTFSA/non-reg
GICs (1–5 year)3.80–4.60% (2026)None (guaranteed)TFSA/RRSP

Past returns do not guarantee future performance. Market returns are variable — use 6–7% as a conservative assumption for long-term equity modeling.

TFSA vs. RRSP vs. Non-Registered — Which to Use?

TFSARRSPNon-Registered
Tax on contributionsAfter-tax dollarsPre-tax (deductible)After-tax dollars
Tax on growthNoneNone (until withdrawal)Annual (cap gains, dividends)
Tax on withdrawalNoneFull income taxNone additional
2026 annual room$7,00018% of earned incomeUnlimited
Withdrawal impactRoom restored next yearPermanent loss of roomNo limits
Best forMost CanadiansHigh earners (30%+ tax)After maxing registered

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a realistic return assumption for Canadian investors?
A global equity ETF (like XEQT) has historically returned 7–10% annually before inflation. For planning purposes, use 6–7% to be conservative. Bonds/GICs return 3–5%. Adjust based on your actual portfolio allocation.
How much should I invest monthly in Canada?
A common guideline is to save 10–15% of gross income for retirement. With TFSA room of $7,000/year, contributing $583/month maximizes your TFSA. After maxing TFSA, maximize RRSP contributions, then invest in non-registered accounts.
What is the best investment for a Canadian beginner?
A single all-in-one ETF (XEQT or VEQT) held in a TFSA through Wealthsimple Trade or Questrade. Low fees (0.20% MER), automatic rebalancing, globally diversified, and zero trading commissions at both platforms.

Related Guides & Calculators