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5 Things to Know Today: Inflation Data, a Tariff Countdown, and a Big Energy Deal

  August 17, 2026 Inflation data lands this morning, the clock on the U.S. tariff deadline is down to two days, and a long-running provincial energy dispute is about to be settled. Here's what's moving your money today. 1. Today's Inflation Report Could Set the Tone for September Statistics Canada releases July's Consumer Price Index this morning. Economists are expecting the annual rate to tick up to roughly 2.9%, from 2.8% in June, mainly because gasoline prices swung higher again in July after the Middle East conflict pushed oil prices back up. Core inflation measures, which the Bank of Canada watches most closely, aren't expected to move much. What it means for you: A hotter-than-expected print would make it less likely the Bank of Canada cuts rates at its September 2 meeting, which matters if you're renewing a variable-rate mortgage or carrying a line of credit. A softer number keeps a cut on the table. 2. The Tariff Deadline Is Two Days Away, and Talks Are...

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Yemeni Houthi Rebel Attacks on Ships in the Red Sea Disrupt Global Trade

 

The Yemeni Houthi rebel attacks on ships in the Red Sea have been causing significant disruptions to global trade. The Houthis, who are backed by Iran, have been targeting commercial ships in the region with drones and anti-ship missiles. 

The attacks have escalated since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023. The Red Sea is a crucial maritime artery for consumer goods and energy supplies, with 40% of Asia-Europe trade normally flowing through the area. The attacks have rerouted most of the trade normally flowing through the Red Sea, delaying shipments and raising transport costs. The impact of the attacks has been felt worldwide, with electric car maker Tesla announcing that it had to shut down its factory outside Berlin due to delays in supply chains.

In response to the growing impact on global trade, the United States and a host of other nations have created a new force to protect ships. The Biden administration has set up a 10-nation naval task force to protect ships traveling along this important route. Some of the world’s largest container shipping companies and oil giant BP have been sending vessels on longer journeys that bypass the Red Sea.


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