Here’s Why the Average RRSP for Canadians Age 65 Isn’t Enough

The RRSP is an excellent way to save for retirement. Yet most Canadians don’t have enough! Here’s how to catch up.

| More on:
Senior uses a laptop computer

Source: Getty Images

The average Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) for Canadians aged 65 might surprise some people. It’s estimated to be around $180,000. While this seems like a substantial amount, when stretched over a retirement that could span two decades or more, it doesn’t quite provide the security one might hope for.

Most financial experts recommend having at least $500,000 to $1 million saved to ensure a comfortable retirement, especially with inflation and the rising cost of living. This shortfall in savings is a concern for many Canadians approaching retirement.

Why not?

Why isn’t it enough? Simply put, $180,000 translates to only about $9,000 per year if withdrawn over a 20-year period, and that’s before taxes. Coupled with the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) benefits, this might cover basic needs.

Yet, it’s unlikely to support a lifestyle that includes travel, leisure, or any unexpected medical expenses. So, for those looking to catch up and add to their nest egg, investing in a reliable growth stock like Constellation Software (TSX:CSU) could be a promising choice.

Created with Highcharts 11.4.3Constellation Software PriceZoom1M3M6MYTD1Y5Y10YALLwww.fool.ca

CSU stock

CSU has had an impressive track record, which continues to make it a compelling choice. In recent third-quarter (Q3) 2024 earnings, CSU stock reported a 20% revenue increase to $2.54 billion, primarily driven by acquisitions and some organic growth. The company’s growth model has long focused on acquiring smaller software companies and integrating them efficiently. This consistently drives up revenue. For those seeking growth in their investments, CSU’s strategy of expansion and acquisition offers just that.

The earnings for Q3 also showed some fluctuations in net income, with a decrease of 28% to $164 million, primarily due to the costs associated with their aggressive acquisition strategy. While some might view this as a downside, CSU has demonstrated over time that these investments often lead to higher revenue and operational efficiency in the long run, thereby benefiting shareholders through steady growth.

CSU stock also announced a $1.00 per share dividend payable in January 2025. While the yield is modest compared to some dividend stocks, it’s a nice bonus for investors who are more interested in the capital appreciation CSU has delivered over the years. The stock has been a powerhouse on the TSX, with a market cap of nearly $97 billion. And it consistently outperforms with a focus on long-term value rather than short-term gains.

Looking ahead

In terms of future outlook, CSU stock shows no signs of slowing down. Its Q3 results highlighted continued growth with additional acquisitions, totalling $267 million in cash payments. This is an exciting prospect for potential investors because CSU’s management team has a history of selecting valuable acquisitions that continue to increase revenue streams and shareholder value.

Notably, CSU’s stock trades at a high valuation with a trailing price-to-earnings (P/E) of 106.91. This high valuation reflects investor confidence in CSU’s ability to generate revenue and profit growth over time. For those closer to retirement, the long-term value of CSU stock can be especially appealing since it provides a robust growth path compared to more conservative or fixed-income investments.

Furthermore, CSU stock’s strong cash flows make it a sustainable option. Cash flow from operations was $517 million in Q3, reflecting the company’s operational strength and its ability to fund future acquisitions without overly relying on debt. This cash flow stability is crucial for investors who want security in knowing that the company has the funds to continue expanding without compromising its balance sheet.

Bottom line

If you’re looking to bump up your RRSP, CSU is a great option. CSU is considered a “tech growth” stock, so it naturally has the potential to deliver returns that far outpace traditional fixed-income or low-growth investments. With a steady history of growth and a strong business model, CSU presents a valuable option for Canadians aiming to bolster their RRSPs, especially if they’re starting late and need to catch up with their savings.

This article represents the opinion of the writer, who may disagree with the “official” recommendation position of a Motley Fool premium service or advisor. We’re Motley! Questioning an investing thesis — even one of our own — helps us all think critically about investing and make decisions that help us become smarter, happier, and richer, so we sometimes publish articles that may not be in line with recommendations, rankings or other content.

Fool contributor Amy Legate-Wolfe has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Constellation Software. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

More on Retirement

RRSP Canadian Registered Retirement Savings Plan concept
Retirement

Here’s the Average Canadian TFSA and RRSP at Age 60

Many Canadian retirees have tens of thousands invested in ETFs like the iShares S&P/TSX 60 Index Fund (TSX:XIU).

Read more »

Redwood trees stretch up to the sunlight.
Retirement

3 Canadian Growth Stocks I’d Buy and Hold in a TFSA Forever

These stocks have the potential to outperform the broader market with their returns. Using the TFSA can further amplify your…

Read more »

woman retiree on computer
Retirement

Want to Retire Early? These 2 TSX Stocks Could Make it Happen

These safe, large-cap dividend stocks could help fast-track your path to retirement.

Read more »

RRSP Canadian Registered Retirement Savings Plan concept
Retirement

How to Protect Your Retirement Savings From the CRA

Building a sizeable retirement pool is important, but it is equally important to protect it from the CRA’s tax claws.

Read more »

grow money, wealth build
Retirement

Maximizing TFSA Growth: Top Investment Choices for 2025

Two resource companies are the top investment choices for 2025 to maximize TFSA growth.

Read more »

cloud computing
Retirement

The Absolute Best Canadian Stocks to Buy and Hold Forever in a TFSA

The TFSA is the perfect place to hold Canadian stocks that will compound and multiply over decades. These stocks are…

Read more »

The TFSA is a powerful savings vehicle for Canadians who are saving for retirement.
Stocks for Beginners

The Best Canadian Stocks to Invest $7,000 in This Month

Wondering how to deploy your $7,000 TFSA contribution in 2025? Here are four quality Canadian stocks to add if the…

Read more »

Two seniors float in a pool.
Retirement

3 TSX Stocks That Can Turn Retirement Dreams Into Reality

Find out how to make your retirement dreams a reality by focusing on long-term investments and preparing for unforeseen circumstances.

Read more »