Skip to main content

Featured

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...

article

Israeli Airstrike Eliminates Senior Hezbollah Commander in Southern Lebanon

 

In a significant escalation of hostilities, an Israeli airstrike has killed a high-ranking commander in Hezbollah’s elite Radwan forces, according to security sources. The commander, identified as Habib Maatouk, was targeted in southern Lebanon on Thursday.

Maatouk had recently assumed his position following the death of his predecessor, Ali Ahmed Hassin, who was also killed in an Israeli strike earlier this year. The latest attack is part of ongoing tit-for-tat violence between Israel and Hezbollah, which has intensified since October 2023 when Hezbollah declared a “support front” with Palestinians following a major Hamas attack on southern Israel.

The airstrike hit the border villages of Safad El Batikh and Jmaijmeh, resulting in multiple casualties. Eighteen wounded individuals were taken to Tebnin government hospital, with two reported in critical condition. The conflict has led to significant destruction in Lebanese border towns, reminiscent of the 2006 Israel-Lebanon war.

This incident underscores the fragile and volatile nature of the region, with both sides continuing to engage in aggressive military actions. The international community remains concerned about the potential for further escalation and the humanitarian impact on civilians caught in the crossfire.


Comments