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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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Seven Ways the 2024 Federal Budget Impacts Your Finances

 

The 2024 federal budget in Canada has introduced several measures that directly affect your financial well-being. Let’s explore seven key ways this budget impacts you:

  1. Capital Gains Inclusion Rate Increase:

    • The budget proposes raising the capital gains inclusion rate from 50% to 66.67% for corporations, trusts, and individuals (for capital gains exceeding $250,000) on or after June 25, 2024.
    • This change affects how much tax you pay when selling assets like stocks, real estate, or businesses.

  2. Employee Stock Options:

    • If you receive employee stock options, the taxable benefit deduction will be reduced to 33.33% (from 50%) due to the higher capital gains inclusion rate.
    • However, you can still claim a combined deduction of up to $250,000 for both stock options and capital gains.

  3. Net Capital Losses:

    • Prior-year net capital losses can offset taxable capital gains in the current year, even after the rate change.
    • This means losses realized before the rate increase can fully offset equivalent gains afterward.

  4. Affordable Housing Initiatives:

    • The budget aims to build more affordable homes, addressing the challenge of elevated living costs.
    • While there are no changes to personal tax brackets, housing affordability remains a priority.

  5. Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT):

    • The budget proposes amendments to AMT proposals, reducing the negative impact on charitable donations’ tax treatment.
    • This benefits those who contribute to charities while minimizing their tax liability.

  6. Carbon Tax Offset:

    • Although not explicitly mentioned, the budget likely includes measures to offset the carbon tax impact on households.
    • These efforts align with environmental goals and may affect your energy costs.

  7. Small Business Investment:

    • Expect further investment incentives for small businesses, encouraging growth and job creation.
    • The budget aims to boost the economy and support entrepreneurs.

In summary, the 2024 federal budget combines tax changes, housing initiatives, and economic strategies to enhance financial stability for Canadians. Stay informed and adapt your financial plans accordingly.

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