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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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Elon Musk's Ultimatum to Federal Workers: A New Era of Accountability

 

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the federal workforce, Elon Musk has issued an ultimatum to all federal employees, demanding that they provide a detailed account of their accomplishments over the past week within 48 hours. This directive, announced via Musk's social media platform, X, has sparked confusion and concern across various government agencies.

Musk, who serves as President Donald Trump's cost-cutting chief, emphasized that failure to comply with this request would be interpreted as a resignation. The email sent to federal employees instructed them to list approximately five bullet points of their weekly achievements and to cc their managers.

The directive has been met with mixed reactions. Some agencies have advised their employees not to respond, while labor union leaders have condemned the move as an example of the administration's disregard for federal workers and the essential services they provide. The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) has threatened legal action, arguing that the order is both cruel and disrespectful.

As the deadline approaches, the federal workforce remains in a state of uncertainty, with many employees questioning the authenticity and implications of Musk's directive.


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