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5 Things to Know Today: Job Losses, a Sliding Loonie and Budget 2026 (Nov. 7)

  Canadian Money Brief · Saturday, November 7, 2026 Canada’s job losses stretched to a third month, the loonie took its biggest one-day hit since January, and the federal budget landed with a few items for your wallet. Here’s what to know today. 1 Canada’s job market has now lost jobs three months in a row Statistics Canada said the economy shed 4,700 jobs in October, well short of the gain of about 13,600 economists expected. The unemployment rate rose to 6.7% from 6.5%, a six-month high. That follows losses of 42,000 in August and 68,000 in September, and the country has added just 17,000 jobs over the past 12 months. Alberta lost 24,000 jobs, youth unemployment climbed to 13.7%, and average hourly wages were up only 2.2% from a year earlier. What it means for you: Wages are rising 2.2% a year while September inflation was 3.1%, so paycheques are losing ground. If your income feels less certain, this is a good week to check that your emergency fund covers three to six months of ...

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Canadian Excel Maestro Claims World Spreadsheet Championship Title

 

Michael Jarman, a financial modelling director from Toronto, has been crowned the new world champion of managing spreadsheets in Microsoft Excel. Jarman clinched the title at the Microsoft Excel World Championships held in Las Vegas on December 4, 2024, defeating Australia's three-time champion Andrew Ngai in a thrilling finale.

The competition, which is akin to an esports event, required participants to build and manage spreadsheets to perform tasks and solve problems based on a World of Warcraft theme. Jarman's victory came after an intense final round where he successfully tracked various game statistics, including experience points and health, under immense pressure.

For his remarkable skills, Jarman took home a $5,000 prize and the event's signature championship belt. "It was an amazing feeling," Jarman said. "It's definitely a really great memory for me, and will be for a long time."

Jarman's triumph not only highlights his exceptional Excel abilities but also showcases the growing popularity of spreadsheet competitions as a unique and entertaining sport.



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