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How the Strait of Hormuz Crisis Is Hitting Your Wallet Right Now

Published May 17, 2026  |  Category: Oil Prices & Energy  |  By MoneySavings.ca If you've winced lately at the gas pump or noticed your grocery bill creeping up, you're not imagining it. A geopolitical crisis unfolding halfway around the world — at a narrow strip of water between Iran and Oman — is directly squeezing Canadian budgets. Here's everything you need to know, and what you can do about it. What Is the Strait of Hormuz? The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway just 33 kilometres wide at its tightest point, connecting the Persian Gulf to the open ocean. Despite its modest size, it is the world's single most critical energy chokepoint. Before this crisis, roughly 20 million barrels of oil moved through it every single day — about 20% of all the world's seaborne oil supply, plus significant volumes of liquefied natural gas (LNG). Think of it as the world's energy jugular vein. When it gets blocked, the entire planet feels it. What Happened? On Februa...
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Global Markets Surge on Fed Rate Cut Signals


Markets around the world are experiencing a significant upswing as the Federal Reserve signals potential rate cuts in the coming year. This optimistic outlook has sparked a rally across both stock and bond markets, with Asia joining the upward trend.

Key Highlights:

  • Stock Market Rally: A global stock index has risen for six consecutive sessions, with notable gains in Australian and South Korean shares. The S&P 500 reached its highest point in nearly two years, and Apple Inc’s shares hit a new high.
  • Federal Reserve’s Dovish Stance: The Fed maintained current rates but hinted at a 75 basis point reduction in 2024 through its “dot plot,” a more aggressive cut than previously suggested.
  • Bond Market Gains: Following the Fed’s announcement, US Treasuries saw a rise, with 10-year yields dropping below 4% for the first time since August. Swap contracts indicate expectations of 140 basis points of easing within the next year.
  • Inflation Trends: Recent reports show a slowdown in producer-price increases and a decrease in the annual inflation rate, aligning with the Fed’s target.

This broad “risk-on” rally is anticipated to continue, with experts like Kellie Wood from Schroders Plc predicting robust market performance. The dovish signs from the Fed have indeed delivered an early Christmas gift to investors, setting a positive tone for market activities.

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