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U.S. Midterms Tuesday: What the Vote Could Mean for the Loonie, Tariffs and Your Portfolio

  Canadian Money Brief | Feature U.S. Midterms Tuesday: What the Vote Could Mean for the Loonie, Tariffs and Your Portfolio By MoneySavings.ca | Published November 1, 2026 Americans vote Tuesday in elections that will fill all 435 House seats and 35 Senate seats. Canadians don't get a ballot, but we do get the consequences: a loonie that swung from an 18-month low to a six-week high in about two weeks, a tariff fight that has put 50% duties on roughly US$20 billion of our exports, and a lot of U.S. stock sitting inside our TFSAs and RRSPs. Here is how to think about all of it without trying to guess the winner. The short version: Nobody can reliably trade an election result. Forecasters lean toward Democrats winning the House, with the Senate closer. But history says the bigger market moves tend to come in the months after the vote, not on election night. For Canadians, the useful steps are practical: convert U.S. dollars in pieces, know how much U.S. stock you hold, and don't...
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Surviving the Heat Wave: How Canadians Can Stay Cool and Prepared

                

As temperatures soar and humidity levels rise, southern Ontario and Quebec are bracing for dangerously hot conditions. But what impact does this heat wave have on our electricity systems?

The Strain on Electricity Systems

Heat waves pose a “two-angled attack” on the electricity grid. Here’s how:

  1. Increased Demand: As people crank up their air conditioning to beat the heat, the demand for electricity surges. This puts strain on the system, especially transformers and other components.

  2. Temperature Stress: The extra heat generated by infrastructure exacerbates the situation. Transformers, in particular, can only handle so much heat, potentially leading to power failures or outages.

What Authorities Say

  • Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO): The province’s electricity system is prepared for increased demand due to high temperatures. They closely monitor conditions to ensure a stable and reliable supply.

  • Hydro-Québec: Quebec’s power provider has contingency plans for different weather conditions. While heat waves don’t significantly impact their equipment, they sometimes report planned service interruptions to ensure clients have access to air conditioning.

Preparation Tips for Canadians

  1. Conserve Energy: Use air conditioning wisely and consider using fans or natural ventilation when possible.

  2. Check Emergency Kits: Ensure you have flashlights, batteries, and other essentials in case of power outages.

  3. Stay Informed: Monitor local news and official advisories for updates on the heat wave and potential power disruptions.

Remember, while Canada’s grid systems are typically resilient, extreme heat waves can still pose risks. Let’s stay prepared and look out for one another during this scorching summer.


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