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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...

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Ottawa Prioritizes Canadian Steel and Aluminum in Federal Grants


In a significant move to bolster domestic industries, the Canadian government has mandated that all federal grant recipients prioritize the use of Canadian steel and aluminum in their projects. This directive, announced by Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne, is part of Ottawa's broader strategy to support local manufacturing and counter external trade pressures.

The decision comes amidst ongoing challenges in the global trade landscape, including tariffs imposed by the United States on Canadian steel and aluminum. By emphasizing the use of homegrown materials, the government aims to safeguard jobs, strengthen the national economy, and ensure the sustainability of critical industries.

Minister Champagne highlighted the importance of Canadian steel and aluminum in supporting key sectors such as defense, automotive, and infrastructure. He emphasized that this initiative not only protects Canadian workers but also reinforces the country's commitment to a resilient and self-reliant economy.

This policy shift is expected to have a ripple effect across various industries, encouraging innovation and investment in Canadian manufacturing. It also underscores the government's dedication to fostering a competitive and sustainable industrial base in the face of global challenges.

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