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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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U.S. Imposes 50% Tariffs on Canadian Steel and Aluminum Amid Trade Tensions

In a significant escalation of trade tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a 50% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports from Canada, effective midnight. This decision doubles the previously threatened 25% tariff and comes in response to Ontario's recent imposition of a 25% surcharge on electricity exports to the United States.

The move has sparked concerns about its potential impact on both economies. Canadian officials have expressed dismay, warning of retaliatory measures, while U.S. manufacturers and consumers brace for higher costs. President Trump has also hinted at further tariffs on Canadian automobiles if the dispute remains unresolved.

This development marks a new chapter in the ongoing trade disputes between the two nations, with significant implications for industries and markets on both sides of the border.

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