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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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Tiny Homes for the Homeless: A Controversial Solution in Toronto

 

The City of Toronto has requested the removal of tiny shelters for homeless individuals from St. James Park. These shelters, built by the non-profit organization Tiny Tiny Homes, were designed to provide temporary housing for those experiencing homelessness. The city cited safety concerns and interference with public use of the park as reasons for the removal.

Ryan Donais, the founder of Tiny Tiny Homes, started building these shelters to address the growing number of homeless encampments in Ontario. Each tiny home is equipped with a bed, a small kitchen, a solar panel for lights and a fan, and a diesel-fueled heating system. Despite the city's request, Donais and his supporters are advocating for alternative locations for the shelters and have started a petition to garner public support.

The city has acknowledged the good intentions behind the initiative but maintains that the shelters pose safety risks and interfere with city staff's outreach work. As the debate continues, the future of these tiny homes remains uncertain.


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