CRA Clarifies Interest Deductibility Rules for Investors

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) recently updated its guidelines on interest deductibility for borrowed funds used in investments. According to the Income Tax Act, interest is generally only deductible if borrowed money is used for earning income from a business or property. Notably, the CRA clarified that simply having an expectation of capital gains doesn’t meet this test. However, the deduction is still allowed for investments in common shares if there’s a reasonable expectation of dividends, even if dividends aren’t immediately paid.

In cases where an investment is replaced by another, or even if the new investment becomes worthless, the interest on borrowed money remains deductible. The CRA’s stance is that the key factor is the current use of funds, not the original use. This guidance also covers the “disappearing source” rule, which permits deductibility of interest when the borrowed funds, although no longer traceable to an income-generating purpose, were initially used for that purpose. Investors can benefit from this clarity to better understand how to manage their investments and related tax deductions.

For instance, if you borrow funds at a higher interest rate than the return you earn on your investment, the CRA still allows for the full deduction of the interest, provided the funds were borrowed for income-earning purposes. Additionally, if you use borrowed funds to invest in common shares where dividends may be paid later, the interest remains deductible, even when no immediate dividends are expected. However, if a corporation explicitly states it will not pay dividends, the CRA will disallow the interest deduction.

This updated folio provides essential guidance for those borrowing to invest, helping investors maintain compliance with the CRA’s rules.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Recommended articles

Orooj Financial Bitcoin vs Real Estate

Crypto vs. Real Estate: Where Should You Invest in 2025?

Investing is all about making the right choices. Two of the hottest options today are cryptocurrency and real estate. Both have created millionaires. Both come with risks. But which is the smarter investment for 2025? Let’s break it down. Why Investors Love Crypto Cryptocurrency has taken the world by storm. Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital assets have skyrocketed in value over the years. Here’s why high-net-worth investors consider crypto: 1. High Potential Returns Crypto has seen explosive growth. Bitcoin was once worth pennies. Now, it trades for tens of thousands. Those who got in early made fortunes. 2. Liquidity Unlike real estate, crypto can be bought and sold instantly. No waiting for buyers, no real estate agents, and no paperwork. This makes it a flexible asset. 3. 24/7 Market Stocks and real estate have trading hours. Crypto is different. You can trade anytime, anywhere. This allows for quick reactions to market changes. 4. Hedge Against Inflation Many investors see Bitcoin as “digital gold.” With a limited supply, it may hold value better than traditional currencies during inflationary periods. 5. Decentralization & Innovation Blockchain technology is changing finance, real estate, and even healthcare. Many believe investing in crypto is investing in the future of technology. Why Investors Trust Real Estate Real estate has long been a go-to investment for high-net-worth individuals. Here’s why it remains a strong contender: 1. Stability and Predictable Growth Real estate is far less volatile than crypto. Property values typically rise over time, making it a stable long-term investment. 2. Passive Income Owning rental properties generates steady cash flow. Unlike crypto, which relies on price speculation, real estate provides tangible income. 3. Tangible Asset Real estate is a physical asset. It won’t disappear overnight. Even in market downturns, properties hold intrinsic value. 4. Tax Benefits Real estate investors enjoy tax advantages like depreciation, mortgage interest deductions, and capital gains benefits. These incentives boost overall returns. 5. Leverage Opportunities With real estate, investors can use leverage to buy properties with borrowed money. This increases potential returns without requiring full upfront capital. Crypto vs. Real Estate: Key Comparisons Factor Crypto Real Estate Volatility High Low Liquidity Instant transactions Can take months Passive Income No Yes, through rentals Tax Benefits Limited Significant Leverage No Yes Tangible Asset No Yes Which is Better for High-Net-Worth Investors? Best for Growth: Crypto If your goal is fast growth, crypto offers high upside potential. However, this comes with extreme volatility. Investors should be prepared for rapid price swings. Best for Stability: Real Estate If you prioritize stability and long-term wealth, real estate wins. It provides consistent income, appreciates over time, and comes with strong tax advantages. Best for Diversification: Both Smart investors don’t put all their money in one basket. A combination of real estate and crypto can balance risk and reward. What Financial Experts Recommend Most financial advisors, including those at Orooj Financial, suggest diversification. Allocating a portion of your portfolio to real estate for stability and another portion to crypto for high-growth potential can be a strategic approach. However, your investment choices should align with your risk tolerance, financial goals, and market conditions. For expert financial guidance tailored to high-net-worth individuals, visit Investopedia and Forbes Finance. Final Thoughts Crypto and real estate both offer unique advantages. Crypto is fast, high-risk, and high-reward. Real estate is stable, income-generating, and tax-friendly. In 2025, the best investment depends on your financial strategy. If you’re serious about growing and protecting your wealth, consult with a financial expert. Investing wisely today ensures a secure future tomorrow.  

Read More