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5 Things to Know Today: Tariffs, a CPI Surprise, and the Mortgage Rate Gap

  July 21, 2026 A new round of US tariffs, a surprise inflation dip, and a widening gap between fixed and variable mortgage rates are all moving in different directions today. Here's what's happening and what it means for your money. 1. Washington hits Canada with new 50% tariffs on everyday goods The White House has announced fresh 50% tariffs on a wide list of Canadian exports, including wine, dairy, furniture, hockey equipment, cement, and clothing. The move is framed as retaliation over Canada's dairy quotas, car import rules, and provincial bans on US alcohol. The tariffs take effect August 19 and apply even to goods that would normally qualify duty-free under CUSMA, though energy, potash, fish, and critical minerals are exempt. What it means for you: This round targets export industries, not imports into Canada, so it won't directly raise shelf prices here the way a Canadian tariff on US goods would. The bigger risk is indirect — job pressure in affected sectors ...

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Trump Implements 25% Tariff on Steel and Aluminum Imports

 

In a significant move, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports, effective immediately. This decision follows a day of intense trade negotiations and threats to raise the tariff to 50%. The tariff aims to protect American industries but has sparked concerns about potential economic repercussions and strained relations with key trading partners, including Canada.

The announcement came after Ontario Premier Doug Ford agreed to suspend a proposed tax on electricity exports to the U.S., which had escalated tensions. Both sides are set to engage in further discussions to address trade disputes and explore revisions to the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

The tariffs are expected to impact global trade dynamics, with Canada and other affected nations preparing to respond. Critics argue that such measures could lead to higher costs for consumers and businesses, while supporters believe they will bolster domestic manufacturing.

This development underscores the complexities of international trade and the challenges of balancing national interests with global economic stability.

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