The considerations that go into answering this question have changed over time as the process for selling
private company shares in the secondary market has become more restrictive.
In the same way that ecommerce and social media changed the way many small companies sell and advertise their goods, the sale of
private company shares online (also known as equity crowdfunding) is changing the way small companies finance themselves.
Come 2017, as promised in the latest federal budget, capital gains tax will be eliminated from the sale of real estate and
private company shares if the proceeds are donated to a registered charity within 30 days.
This year, it's private companies that have seen their valuations slashed, and
private company shares aren't in the 401ks of most investors.
The rules are extremely complicated, and you should consult with a knowledgeable tax adviser before using your RRSP to invest in
private company shares.
Both may be invested in alternative investments such as real estate, precious metals tax liens, promissory notes,
private company shares, and stocks and mutual funds, to name a few;