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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...

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Russia Rejects Trump's Ukraine Peace Proposals

In a significant diplomatic development, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has rejected the peace proposals floated by President-elect Donald Trump's allies to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. Lavrov stated that Moscow has not received any official signals regarding a settlement in Ukraine but expressed dissatisfaction with the unofficial ideas being circulated. 

The proposals reportedly included delaying Ukraine's NATO membership for 20 years and stationing British and European peacekeeping forces in Ukraine. Lavrov emphasized the need for reliable and legally binding agreements that address the root causes of the conflict and prevent future violations. 

Trump, who campaigned on ending the war by the time he takes office, has not officially released any proposals to end the conflict. However, he has claimed that he could end the war within 24 hours of taking office. Despite these claims, Lavrov expressed skepticism about Trump's ability to restore ties between Russia and the U.S., citing the current bipartisan consensus on deterring Russia.

The rejection of these proposals marks a setback for Trump's hopes to freeze the conflict and highlights the complexities of achieving a lasting peace in the region.



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