Skip to main content

Featured

Oil Prices Are Spiking — Here's What It Means for Your Gas Tank and Grocery Bill

  Published July 17, 2026 Crude oil is trading near one-month highs this week, and if you've filled up your tank recently, you've probably already felt it. The culprit: an escalating conflict in the Middle East that's disrupting one of the world's most important oil shipping routes — and it's starting to show up at Canadian pumps and, eventually, on grocery store shelves. What's happening with oil prices West Texas Intermediate (WTI), the North American benchmark, has been trading around the $79–$80 per barrel range this week — up roughly 5% over the past month. Brent crude, the global benchmark that matters more for what Canadians pay at the pump, has been hovering near $85 per barrel, also near a one-month high. The spike traces back to renewed fighting between the U.S. and Iran. The U.S. reimposed a naval blockade on Iran and has intensified strikes, while Iran has responded with attacks on U.S. bases and threats to disrupt regional energy shipments further. ...

article

Alberta Stands Alone: Refuses to Sign Joint Statement on Trump Tariffs

 

In a surprising turn of events, Alberta has refused to sign a joint statement from the first ministers' meeting regarding the Trump administration's proposed tariffs on Canadian goods. Premier Danielle Smith, who attended the meeting virtually, stated that Alberta cannot support the federal government's plan if it includes energy export tariffs. 

The meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, aimed to present a united front against the U.S. tariff threats. However, Smith's refusal to sign the statement has highlighted the province's unique concerns about the potential impact on its energy sector. Alberta's oil and gas industry, which is Canada's largest export to the U.S., could face significant financial pressure if the tariffs are implemented.

Smith emphasized that Alberta will take whatever actions are necessary to protect its economy and the livelihoods of its residents. This stance has sparked a debate among the premiers, with some urging unity while others acknowledge Alberta's specific vulnerabilities.

The situation remains tense as Canada awaits further developments from the Trump administration. The potential tariffs could have far-reaching consequences for the Canadian economy, particularly for Alberta's vital energy sector.


Comments