The FTSE Canada Universe Bond Index represents a comprehensive cross-section of investment-grade government and corporate bonds denominated in Canadian dollars. It includes bonds with a term to maturity of one year or more and excludes high-yield (non-investment-grade) bonds.
* A. It measures the total price return on bonds including realized and unrealized gains: The index does not account for realized gains; it tracks price movements and interest income.
* C. It includes Canadian investment-grade bonds with a term to maturity of one year or less: Bonds in this index must have a term to maturity of at least one year, not less.
* D. It is an equal-weighted bond index with each bond representing the same weight within the index:
The FTSE Canada Universe Bond Index is capitalization-weighted, not equal-weighted.
Reference:CSC Volume 1, Chapter 7, "Bond Indexes - FTSE Canada Universe Bond Index" explains the composition and characteristics of the index.

Alternative strategy funds aim to achieveabsolute returns, focusing on positive returns under various market conditions rather than comparing performance to a benchmark index. These strategies often include hedge funds and alternative mutual funds, using techniques like leverage, short selling, and derivatives to manage risk and enhance returns. The goal is not necessarily to outperform an index (as in option A) or match inflation rates (option D) but to deliver consistent positive returns.
References
* CSC Volume 2, Chapter 21:Alternative Investments: Strategies and Performance, p. 21-3 to 21-24.

To reduce a national deficit, governments canincrease taxationto generate more revenue. This measure, combined with controlled spending, helps reduce the shortfall between revenues and expenditures.
* B. Increase government spending: This would increase the deficit further unless matched by revenue increases.
* C. Decrease taxation: This would reduce revenue and worsen the deficit.
* D. Increase interest rates: This impacts monetary policy and borrowing costs but does not directly reduce a fiscal deficit.