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Canada’s sovereign fund hinges on returns and costs

Published: 4 June 2026

Canada’s proposed sovereign fund is drawing scrutiny over its cost and potential returns, but Sebastien Betermier, Associate Professor of Finance at 91 Desautels, sees conditional upside. He argues the roughly $750 million annual interest burden is manageable if the fund is well structured and generates returns above borrowing costs.

“If we end up generating returns above 3% while paying 3% on the debt, we come out ahead,” he notes. Betermier adds the fund could also attract foreign capital into major infrastructure projects, delivering a dual benefit. Ultimately, he stresses that success will hinge on disciplined governance and long-term investment performance. 

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