Skip to main content

Featured

5 Things to Know Today (Oct. 1): Minimum Wage Hike, Cooler U.S. Inflation, Oil Below $100

  Thursday October 1, 2026 A new quarter, a higher minimum wage in Ontario and a softer inflation read south of the border. Here are the five things that matter to your wallet today. 1 Ontario's minimum wage rises to $17.95 today Ontario's general minimum wage climbs 35 cents, from $17.60 to $17.95 an hour, as of October 1 — a roughly 2% bump tied to Ontario's CPI. The student rate goes to $16.90 (from $16.60) and the homeworker rate to $19.70. A full-time worker at 40 hours a week earns about $718 a week before deductions. Federally regulated workers already have an $18.15 floor, which has applied since April 1. What it means for you: If you pay anyone by the hour — a cleaner, a part-time helper, a seasonal worker — hours worked from today forward must be paid at no less than $17.95, even if the pay period started in September. Workers should check their next paycheque. 2 Cooler U.S. inflation eases the pressure on rate hikes The Fed's preferred inflation gauge came i...

article

Ford Hails Progress in U.S.-Canada Trade Talks


Ontario Premier Doug Ford described his recent meeting with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick as "very, very productive," signaling a potential thaw in the tense trade relations between Canada and the United States. The meeting, held in Washington, D.C., focused on addressing escalating tariffs and fostering a more collaborative economic relationship.

Ford expressed optimism, stating, "The temperature's coming down," and emphasized the importance of finding common ground for the benefit of both nations. While specific details of the discussions remain under wraps, the promise of continued dialogue next week suggests a commitment to resolving trade disputes amicably.

This meeting comes amidst a backdrop of heightened tensions, with both countries imposing tariffs on each other's goods. Ford's efforts to de-escalate the situation highlight the significance of diplomacy in navigating complex international trade dynamics.

Comments