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How the Strait of Hormuz Crisis Is Hitting Your Wallet Right Now

Published May 17, 2026  |  Category: Oil Prices & Energy  |  By MoneySavings.ca If you've winced lately at the gas pump or noticed your grocery bill creeping up, you're not imagining it. A geopolitical crisis unfolding halfway around the world — at a narrow strip of water between Iran and Oman — is directly squeezing Canadian budgets. Here's everything you need to know, and what you can do about it. What Is the Strait of Hormuz? The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway just 33 kilometres wide at its tightest point, connecting the Persian Gulf to the open ocean. Despite its modest size, it is the world's single most critical energy chokepoint. Before this crisis, roughly 20 million barrels of oil moved through it every single day — about 20% of all the world's seaborne oil supply, plus significant volumes of liquefied natural gas (LNG). Think of it as the world's energy jugular vein. When it gets blocked, the entire planet feels it. What Happened? On Februa...

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China Calls for Dialogue Amid Market Turmoil Following US Tariffs

China has responded to the recent market upheaval caused by U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs, stating that "the market has spoken" in rejecting the trade measures. The tariffs, which include a 34% levy on Chinese goods, have escalated tensions between the world's two largest economies. In retaliation, China imposed similar tariffs on U.S. goods and introduced export restrictions on rare earth materials.

The global stock markets reacted sharply, with significant losses marking the biggest downturn since the pandemic. The S&P 500, for instance, dropped by 9% over the week. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun emphasized the need for "equal-footed consultation" to resolve trade differences and urged the U.S. to reconsider its approach.

Chinese commerce associations have also called for unity in exploring alternative markets, warning that the tariffs could exacerbate inflation in the U.S. and increase the likelihood of a recession. The trade dispute continues to unfold, with both sides showing no immediate signs of backing down.

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