record high posts

The number of financial complaints made to Canada's Ombudsman for Banking Services and Investments (OBSI) reached a record high in 2010, despite the fact that the worst of the global financial crisis had passed.

Last year, 1,024 complaints were made to the OBSI, which is an independent financial dispute resolution service for consumers and small businesses.

Complaints rose 3.4% in 2010, building on the enormous 48% jump in 2009 at the height of the financial crisis. The new figure marks the first time in the organization's 15 year history that complaints have risen above 1,000.

Gold is predicted to rise for a 10th straight year in 2011, making it the longest rally in 90 years, forecasters say. According to a Bloomberg article in the Financial Post, some top gold forecasters expect the yellow metal to rise 18% to about US$1,500 by December.

It's a staggering outlook, but given gold's recent performance, it's one that may just play out. Gold is up 13% since the beginning of the year at about US$1,248. On June 21 it hit a record high of US$1,266.50.

Many analysts and professional investors cringe when they admit they expect the price of gold to rise, especially from its current levels. Being a "gold bull" in the investment community comes with a stigma. This is basically because gold usually performs well when everything else is going to pot.

Few summer destinations share the enchanting appeal of the Greek Islands, an intoxicating mix of sun, beaches, delectable food, wine, Mediterranean architecture and history. And then there's the mainland, dotted with ancient wonders such as the Acropolis, Olympia and Delphi.

The good news is since the euro's introduction, there's never been a more affordable time to vacation in Greece and soak up some of that vitamin D. The loonie has just hit a record high against its European counterpart making accommodation and food cheaper.

The global financial crisis, recession and now the Greek debt crisis, has caused the value of the euro to plunge against most currencies around the world. The loonie currently buys about 80 euro cents, a record high level and up from about 58 euro cents at the beginning of 2009. If the Greek economy begins to get back on track, it is fair to say that the Canadian dollar will ease its way lower versus the euro, although that will not likely begin to happen this year.