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Russia’s Use of INF-Banned Missiles in Ukraine Sparks Global Alarm

                                                      File photo: The two leaders met in Alaska earlier this year Russia has reportedly deployed the 9M729 ground-launched cruise missile —a weapon once banned under the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty —against Ukraine, marking its first confirmed use in combat. The missile, capable of carrying either nuclear or conventional warheads, has an estimated range of up to 2,500 kilometers , far exceeding the 500 km limit once imposed by the treaty. Background The INF Treaty , signed in 1987 by U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, prohibited ground-launched missiles with ranges between 500 and 5,500 kilometers. However, U.S. officials accused Russia of secretly developing the 9M729 in violation of the pact. This dispute ultimately led Presiden...

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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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