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The Loonie Just Hit a 14-Month Low — Here's What It's Costing You

   Saturday, July 25, 2026 The Canadian dollar has slid to its weakest level since April 2025, and speculators are betting it has further to fall. Here's why it's happening and what it actually means for your wallet. If you've bought anything in U.S. dollars lately — a flight, an Amazon.com order, a hotel for a Florida trip — you may have noticed the exchange rate isn't doing you any favours. The Canadian dollar touched 1.4248 per U.S. dollar (about 70.2 U.S. cents ) last week, its weakest level in 14 months, before steadying closer to 1.41 . It's not just a bad week. Currency speculators have piled into bets against the loonie so aggressively that the Canadian dollar has overtaken the Japanese yen as the most heavily shorted major currency in the world, according to data from the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Net short positions against the CAD hit roughly US$12.5 billion — the largest bearish bet on the loonie since December 2024. Why the loonie is ...

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Maximizing Savings: A Guide to 2023 CRA Tax Breaks for Canadians

 



As we welcome the new year, it’s crucial to stay informed about the various tax deductions and credits available to Canadians. These financial incentives can significantly reduce your tax bill and potentially result in a substantial refund. Here’s a brief overview of six key tax breaks offered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for the 2023 tax year:

  • Dividend Tax Credit: Investors can benefit from this credit, which applies to dividends received from stocks like Fortis Inc. The credit is calculated based on a “grossed up” amount of the dividends, leading to a reduced tax bill.

  • RRSP Contributions: Contributions to a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) are deductible, lowering your taxable income and, consequently, your tax bill.

  • Work-from-Home Deductions: Self-employed individuals can claim their entire workspace, while conventionally employed workers can deduct work-related expenses.

  • Disability Tax Credit: This credit provides relief for costs incurred due to a severe disability, offering a significant deduction for both oneself and eligible dependents.

  • Tuition Fees: Educational expenses, including tuition and textbooks, are eligible for a tax credit, easing the financial burden of higher education.

  • GST/HST Tax Credit: A direct payment is made to individuals with incomes below a certain threshold, helping to offset the Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax paid throughout the year.

By taking advantage of these tax breaks, Canadians can effectively manage their finances and save money as they navigate the complexities of the tax system. Remember, every deduction counts when it comes to maximizing your savings.

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