Opportunity Rocks with Rocky Bhatia

In this episode, Rocky Bhatia interviews Ethan Astaneh, a seasoned wealth advisor at Nicola Wealth, about innovative tax strategies for Canadian business owners. They explore the benefits and complexities of Individual Pension Plans (IPPs) and flow-through shares, providing valuable insights into optimizing retirement and investment planning.Major TopicsIndividual Pension Plans (IPPs) as a retirement toolFlow-through shares and tax credits for resource companiesTax strategies for high-income business ownersImpact of recent tax regime changes on corporate planning in CanadaHolistic approach to wealth and tax planning

Rocky Bhatia sits down with five Baker Tilly co-op students for an insightful conversation about new generations. The discussion challenges common stereotypes about Gen Z (job hopping, non-traditional work priorities) and takes a close look at how technology, hybrid work and flexibility shape career expectations. Explore what motivates the next generation, how they approach professional growth and what employers can do to attract and retain top talent.

Rocky Bhatia sits down with Jatinder Bassi, President of Echelon Insurance, to discuss career progression and professional growth. The illuminating conversation offers practical insights on transitioning from public accounting to industry, navigating leadership challenges, mentorship, the value of professional associations and building long-term success.

Rocky Bhatia sits down with Howard Ma, Director at Baker Tilly Canada Capital, to discuss succession and exit planning strategies for business owners. The conversation offers expert insights into determining valuations, deal structures, the right timing for selling a business, creating competitive markets for buyers, plus much more.

Rocky Bhatia is joined by Baker Tilly colleagues John Demetri and Cathy Wong to demystify the complex world of cross-border taxation for Canadians with U.S. connections. They discuss exemptions offered by the Canada-U.S. tax treaty, U.S. estate tax exposure, departure tax imposed when Canadians move south of the border, plus much more.

Rocky Bhatia is joined by Ron Monteiro, executive coach, leadership consultant and author of “Love Mondays,” to explore finding purpose in one’s work and career, even when certain tasks may seem unfulfilling. The wide-ranging conversation touches on fundamental issues such as personal accountability and self-discovery, as well as why organizations should focus on a culture of employee engagement and growth.

Rocky Bhatia is joined by Vance Langford of Langford Law for the first episode of Opportunity Rocks to feature a guest from outside the Baker Tilly network. Tapping into Langford’s cross-border legal expertise, they discuss strategies for Canadian businesses seeking to expand their operations into the U.S.

Rocky Bhatia is joined by Sean Grant-Young, National Director of Tax for Baker Tilly in Canada. They discuss recent changes to Canadian tax legislation, cross-border business challenges posed by the Trump administration and much more. 

Rocky Bhatia looks at what doing business in the U.S. means for Canadian companies – and considers how they can navigate the complexities of U.S. tax laws. 

Welcome to Opportunity Rocks! Host Rocky Bhatia kicks the series off with his signature “no-nonsense approach,” laying the foundation for what’s to come.