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Gas Prices Are Spiking Again — Here's How to Protect Your Wallet as the Iran Conflict Escalates

  Published July 20, 2026 If it feels like you're filling up more often for the same money lately, you're not imagining it. Oil markets jolted higher to start the week, and Canadian drivers are almost certain to see it at the pump in the next few days. What just happened Brent crude — the global benchmark that drives Canadian gas pricing — jumped nearly 4% on Monday to trade above US$90 a barrel, its highest level since mid-June, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate traded near US$84. The move came after the United States and Iran escalated hostilities over the weekend, including strikes on vessels attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz and an attack on an oil facility in Kuwait. That strait matters enormously to your gas bill: roughly a fifth of the world's oil supply normally passes through it. When shipping through it slows or stalls, traders price in a "risk premium" almost immediately — and that shows up at Canadian pumps within days, not weeks. What it mea...

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Canada’s Inflation Rate Eases to 2.9% in January

 


Canada’s annual rate of inflation slowed in January, with prices rising 2.9 per cent, according to Statistics Canada. This deceleration was primarily driven by lower year-over-year prices for gasoline. Excluding volatile items like energy and food, the core inflation rate remained relatively stable.

Factors Influencing the Slowdown:

  1. Gasoline Prices: The decline in gasoline prices contributed significantly to the easing of inflation. As global oil markets adjusted, consumers benefited from more affordable fuel at the pump.

  2. Grocery Costs: Price growth for groceries also decelerated, rising 3.4 per cent annually in January compared to 4.7 per cent in December. This moderation in food prices played a role in curbing overall inflation.

  3. Base-Year Effect: The headline Consumer Price Index (CPI) grew at a slower pace year over year in January due to a base-year effect. The monthly increase in January 2023 was smaller than that in January 2022.

While this slowdown is a positive sign, it’s essential to monitor inflation trends closely. The central bank will continue to assess economic conditions and adjust monetary policy as needed. As we navigate the delicate balance between price stability and economic growth, Canadians can expect ongoing discussions about inflationary pressures and their impact on household budgets.

In summary, Canada’s inflation rate has taken a breather, but vigilance remains key as we move forward in 2024.


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