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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's Tariff Tango: The Strain on U.S.-Canada Relations

The relationship between the United States and Canada, historically marked by mutual respect and cooperation, has taken a sharp turn under President Donald Trump's administration. The latest chapter in this strained dynamic is Trump's imposition of sweeping 25% tariffs on Canadian goods, citing concerns over illegal immigration and drug trafficking. While these issues are more pronounced at the U.S.-Mexico border, Canada has found itself caught in the crossfire.

The tariffs, which also include a 10% levy on Canadian energy exports, have sparked a trade war between the two nations. Canada has responded with its own counter-tariffs, targeting $30 billion worth of U.S. goods, with plans for additional measures. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has vowed to stand firm, emphasizing the need to protect Canadian jobs and the economy.

For consumers, the impact is immediate and tangible. Prices for everyday goods, from groceries to construction materials, are expected to rise as businesses pass on the increased costs. Economists warn that these tariffs could lead to job losses, economic instability, and even a potential recession.

The broader implications are equally concerning. The tariffs threaten to unravel decades of free trade agreements and could set a precedent for future economic conflicts. As both nations brace for the fallout, the question remains: can this long-standing partnership withstand the strain?

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