According to the LLQP Segregated Funds and Annuities study materials, effective financial planning follows a clear hierarchy of priorities. Before focusing on investment growth or diversification, a client must address high-interest debt and stabilize their overall financial position. In Christie’s case, the most pressing concern is her $20,000 credit card debt, which typically carries very high interest rates compared to other forms of debt and investment returns.
The LLQP curriculum emphasizes that unsecured consumer debt, such as credit card balances, represents a significant financial risk. Credit card interest rates often exceed 18% annually, which can quickly erode cash flow and negate the benefits of investment returns. Even well-performing investments are unlikely to consistently outperform the guaranteed “return” achieved by eliminating high-interest debt. Therefore, from a suitability and prudence standpoint, eliminating credit card debt should be prioritized over investing or restructuring pension assets.
While Christie has substantial assets, including home equity and a DBPP, these are not liquid or appropriate to access prematurely. The LLQP materials caution against using long-term or registered assets, such as pension plans, to solve short-term financial issues unless no other reasonable alternatives exist. Receiving the commuted value of a DBPP is a major, often irreversible decision with tax, longevity, and retirement income implications, and it would be inappropriate as a first-line solution.
Establishing an emergency fund is important, but Christie already maintains modest liquidity through her chequing and savings accounts. Increasing emergency savings while carrying high-interest debt is inefficient, as interest costs continue to accumulate. Similarly, diversifying into equities is a secondary objective that should only be addressed after stabilizing debt obligations.
In line with LLQP principles, Christie’s financial priority should be to eliminate her credit card debt, thereby improving cash flow, reducing financial risk, and creating a stronger foundation for future investment and retirement planning.
United Arab Emirates 