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5 Things to Know Today: Alberta Votes to Stay, Inflation Hits 3.1%, BoC Countdown (Oct. 21, 2026)

  Canadian Money Brief | Wednesday, October 21, 2026 Albertans just settled a big political question, inflation edged up on gas and heating costs, and the Bank of Canada decision is one week away. Here are the five things that matter for your money today. 1. Alberta votes decisively to stay in Canada Albertans voted by roughly three to one to remain in Canada in Monday's referendum. Unofficial results put the "remain" side at about 75% to 76% with most votes counted, against about 24% to 25% for starting a process toward a future binding separation vote. The referendum was non-binding. Prime Minister Mark Carney said Albertans made a clear choice for unity, and Premier Danielle Smith welcomed the result. What it means for you: The result removes one layer of political uncertainty hanging over Alberta's energy sector and Canadian assets more broadly. It doesn't change your mortgage rate or your portfolio overnight, but about a quarter of voters backed the other op...

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Ontario to Implement 25% Energy Surcharge on U.S. Amid Trade Tensions


Ontario Premier Doug Ford has announced that the province will impose a 25% surcharge on electricity exports to the United States starting Monday. This move comes as a response to U.S. President Donald Trump's recent tariffs on Canadian goods, despite a 30-day pause on tariffs for certain sectors.

The surcharge will affect electricity supplied to three U.S. states—New York, Michigan, and Minnesota—impacting approximately 1.5 million homes and businesses. Premier Ford emphasized that this decision was not taken lightly but is necessary to counteract the economic strain caused by the U.S. tariffs. He also hinted at the possibility of further measures, including restricting electricity exports entirely if the tariffs persist.

The trade dispute has escalated tensions between the two nations, with Canada also implementing retaliatory tariffs on American products. Both Ford and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau have expressed their commitment to defending Canadian interests while urging the U.S. to reconsider its stance.

The surcharge highlights the growing economic and political challenges in the cross-border relationship, as both sides navigate the complexities of trade and energy policies.

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