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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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Stock Market Today: Record Highs as Fed Signals Delay in Rate Cuts



Investors rejoiced today as Wall Street surged to new heights, building upon a record-setting rally. The Federal Reserve’s recent signals of delaying but not slowing down rate cuts fueled the market’s optimism.

Key Highlights:

  1. Fed’s Decision: The Federal Reserve announced its decision to keep interest rates steady, but with a twist. It expects to cut rates three times this year, providing a boost to investor confidence.

  2. Reddit’s IPO: Social media giant Reddit (RDDT) made its public debut on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) today. Priced at $34 per share, the company is now valued at nearly $6.5 billion.

  3. Market Rally: All three major indices – the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI), Nasdaq Composite (IXIC), and S&P 500 (GSPC) – closed at new highs. The S&P 500 surpassed the 5,200 level, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite moved up 0.9%.

  4. Inflation Concerns: Despite sticky inflation data, the Fed maintained its outlook for three rate cuts in 2024. Policymakers remain committed to their easing strategy.

  5. Gold Soars: Gold prices (GC=F) jumped to a record above $2,200 an ounce, reflecting investors’ confidence in the Fed’s approach.

  6. AI Growth and Beyond: While AI growth continues to boost tech stocks, other market drivers are likely to come into focus in the coming weeks.

  7. Swiss National Bank’s Move: The Swiss National Bank surprised markets by lowering interest rates, signaling confidence that tightening has peaked in leading economies.

With the next Fed policy meeting scheduled for May, investors will closely monitor economic indicators and corporate developments. As Reddit joins the NYSE, and Micron (MU) shares surge, the market remains dynamic and full of opportunities.

Stay tuned for more updates as the stock market continues its upward trajectory.


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