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Canadian Money Brief: 5 Things to Know Today — May 18, 2026

  A quick scan of the five stories shaping your wallet right now — from the Bank of Canada's next big decision to your mortgage renewal and a brand-new federal agency hunting financial criminals. 1 Bank of Canada Rate Holds at 2.25% — Next Decision Is June 10 The Bank of Canada kept its overnight policy rate steady at 2.25% at its April 29 meeting, citing a rise in energy-driven inflation and ongoing uncertainty from U.S. tariffs. Governing Council held firm while acknowledging a rate hike could become necessary if oil-linked price pressures prove persistent. The next announcement lands on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 — mark your calendar. Why it matters: Your variable-rate mortgage, HELOC, and lines of credit are directly tied to this rate. With bank prime rates sitting at 4.45%, every meeting counts. 2 Markets TSX Slips Below 34,000 as Bond Yields Spike The S&P/TSX Composite Index finished last week down close to 2%, sliding under the 34,000 mark. A global bond market selloff...

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Market Optimism Rises as Tariff Concerns Ease

                                                

The stock market is showing signs of optimism today, with futures for the Dow Jones Industrial Average, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all climbing. Investors are responding positively to reports suggesting that the next wave of tariffs proposed by President Trump may be more targeted and less severe than initially feared. This development has eased concerns about a potential escalation in the trade war, which could have significant implications for global trade and economic growth.

S&P 500 futures rose by 0.9%, while Nasdaq futures led the gains with a 1.1% increase. Dow Jones futures also advanced by 0.7%. The market's positive momentum follows a recent reversal of a four-week losing streak, signaling renewed confidence among investors.

The proposed tariffs, expected to be announced on April 2, are reportedly being narrowed to focus on specific trade imbalances. This strategic adjustment has provided relief to markets, which had been bracing for broader and more disruptive measures. As a result, the yield on the 10-year Treasury bond rose slightly, reflecting improved risk appetite among investors.

Looking ahead, market participants will closely monitor upcoming economic data, including the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation gauge and consumer confidence surveys, to gauge the broader economic outlook. For now, the tempered approach to tariffs has injected a dose of optimism into the markets, offering a welcome reprieve from recent volatility.

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