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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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China's Defiance: A Trade War Escalates


China has vowed to "fight to the end" in response to former President Donald Trump's latest tariff threats, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing trade war between the world's two largest economies. Trump's proposed additional 50% tariff on Chinese imports has been met with strong resistance from Beijing, which has labeled the move as "unilateral bullying" and a "mistake on top of a mistake".

The Chinese Ministry of Commerce has emphasized its commitment to safeguarding the nation's sovereignty and economic interests, hinting at further countermeasures. Meanwhile, the U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods could reach a staggering 104% if implemented, raising concerns about global economic stability.

As tensions rise, stock markets worldwide have shown increased volatility, reflecting fears of a prolonged trade war. Both nations appear steadfast in their positions, with China signaling its readiness to retaliate and Trump warning of the termination of all talks with Beijing. The outcome of this confrontation remains uncertain, but its implications for international trade and economic growth are profound.

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