Random Thought

Not long ago Jim Flaherty announced new rules to cool the Canadian housing market. Some articles can be found here and here.

As a father of a toddler I have a funny analogy. In the world of cheap money I am reminded of when you take your kid to some special event. It can be Disneyland, a big swimming pool, a museum, or anything you can imagine. You have all these ideas of what you will do and how much fun you will have.

When you get there your little one has a different idea. You may find yourself throwing rocks in the sewer, pointing out shapes, or just running around in a circle. You know what your child chooses is not the best way to maximum fun for the day. So you have a choice: you let him/her do what they want or you attempt to force them to have fun in a specific manner. The latter likely leads to a tantrum.

The Bank of Canada has decided its best to show people exactly how to have fun. As a father I get it. If a large amount of time, money and energy has been invested into something you want to maximize fun. On the other hand, it's kind of selfish you force someone to have fun in a specific manner.

As an investor I worry less about right and wrong and more about outcomes.

FWIW, I think it was a smart move by the Bank of Canada.

Dean