Skip to main content

Featured

Vancouver Budget Balances Books Without Tax Hike

Vancouver city council approved a 2026 budget, which includes a freeze on municipal property taxes. Vancouver City Council has approved a new budget that pledges no increase in property taxes, a move welcomed by many residents facing rising living costs. However, the financial plan comes with significant trade-offs: millions of dollars will be cut from arts programs, park services, and other community initiatives. City officials argue the budget reflects a commitment to fiscal responsibility while easing pressure on households. Critics, however, warn that reductions in cultural and recreational funding could erode the city’s vibrancy and limit access to public spaces. The decision highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing affordability with investment in community life. As Vancouver grows, the debate over how to fund essential services without raising taxes is likely to intensify.

article

Trade Tensions Escalate: China and Canada Strike Back at U.S. Tariffs


In a dramatic escalation of global trade tensions, China and Canada have swiftly retaliated against the sweeping tariffs imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump. The U.S. recently enacted a 25% tariff on most imports from Canada and Mexico, alongside a 10% increase on Chinese goods, doubling the existing duties to 20%.

China responded by imposing tariffs of up to 15% on key U.S. agricultural products, including chicken, wheat, and corn, while Canada announced immediate tariffs of 25% on $20.7 billion worth of American goods, with plans to expand these measures further. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the U.S. actions, calling them unjustified and a violation of trade agreements.

These retaliatory measures are expected to disrupt supply chains and increase costs for businesses and consumers, further straining the already fragile global economy. The trade war shows no signs of abating, with all sides digging in for what could be a prolonged economic standoff.

Comments