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Tariff Ultimatum on Iran Trade Sparks Global Tension

                                                Doing Business With Iran? Trump Says Pay a 25% US Tariff. A new 25% tariff threat from President Donald Trump has sent a jolt through international markets, after he declared that any nation continuing to trade with Iran would face steep U.S. penalties. The announcement, delivered abruptly through social media, signaled a sharp escalation in Washington’s effort to isolate Tehran economically. The move comes amid heightened criticism of Iran’s internal crackdown on dissent, which U.S. officials argue warrants stronger international pressure. By targeting not just Iran but its trading partners, the administration aims to force countries—including major global players—to reconsider their economic ties with Tehran. The threat immediately stirred uncertainty across global markets. Oil prices climbed...

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Canadian Bank Fees: A Costly Affair

 

In a recent eye-opening report by North Economics, it was revealed that Canadians are paying over $7.7 billion annually in ‘excess’ bank fees. This staggering figure has sparked concern as the federal government is already taking steps to mitigate bank fees.

The Alberta-based consultancy firm’s analysis showed that the fees charged by Canada’s Big Five banks—RBC, TD, BMO, CIBC, and Scotiabank—are significantly higher than those in the U.K. and Australia. The report highlights the disparity in charges for everyday banking services, including monthly account fees, non-sufficient funds, overdrafts, and ATM usage at other banks.

Alain de Bossart, the managing director of North Economics, compared the retail banking profits to deposits ratio of 2022 between Canadian and British banks. The findings suggest that the Big Five banks in Canada had an ‘excess’ income of $7.73 billion, which translates to roughly $250 per Canadian.

The Canadian Bankers Association responded by emphasizing the value and accessibility provided by the competitive banking system in Canada. They also mentioned that a significant percentage of Canadians do not pay any account fees.

This report has intensified the dialogue on bank fees in Canada, with many calling for a more consumer-friendly approach that aligns with global standards.

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