Let’s set some odds of whether these things are likely to happen:

-The Canucks winning the Stanley Cup next year?

-Your son, daughter or grandkid getting a good deal on buying a vehicle? The typical sales person sells three or four vehicles a week. Your son, daughter or grandkid buys three or four in a lifetime.

OK, how about getting a good deal in the dealership finance office? There are usually two business managers, so they see 3 or 4 customers a DAY. They’re former sales people who are 100% on commission and your 18-30 year old has no idea of what they need to avoid, or ask, or even understands a lot of what they’re being told or are signing.

-What are the odds they’ll get a better than most people deal with anything at their bank? I bet the odds are tiny. If you don’t believe me, just google all the bank investigate reports of rip-off under: CBC Go Public. You’d be amazed how easily they can sell them an overdraft they’re stuck in for a decade or more, a service charge package that’s overpriced, or a line of credit they’ll have for an average of 16 years.

A new JD Power survey found that eight out of 10 people want financial advice from their bank. That’s way too many and from the totally wrong source! The staff of financial institutions are on commission or bonus pay! They are sales staff – period. That is not the people from whom you should want – or should get – financial advice if you want it to be of benefit to you versus them! Big commissions, big fees, annual fees, low returns, selling you an overdraft, or another credit card, aren’t likely what those eight out of 10 people are looking for, especially your 18-30 year old.

-Credit cards: Millennials tend to use their debit card more than a credit card, and that’s a great thing. But what are the odds they’ll shop around for the right credit card versus just being sold the one from their bank?

Credit card marketing staff consists of some of the best marketing minds in the country…your graduate has never had a credit card in his or her life… Having one is so convenient and always lets them buy today and pay…well – whenever…until they reach their limit and then their statement will show that little line hidden on there: At minimum payments, it will take 27 years to pay off your balance.

Victory doesn’t happen in the game – it happens in practice. The same way, financial wins aren’t in retirement – they’re in your today actions.

George Boelcke – Money Tools & Rules book – yourmoneybook.com