Skip to main content

Featured

Gas Prices Are Spiking Again — Here's How to Protect Your Wallet as the Iran Conflict Escalates

  Published July 20, 2026 If it feels like you're filling up more often for the same money lately, you're not imagining it. Oil markets jolted higher to start the week, and Canadian drivers are almost certain to see it at the pump in the next few days. What just happened Brent crude — the global benchmark that drives Canadian gas pricing — jumped nearly 4% on Monday to trade above US$90 a barrel, its highest level since mid-June, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate traded near US$84. The move came after the United States and Iran escalated hostilities over the weekend, including strikes on vessels attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz and an attack on an oil facility in Kuwait. That strait matters enormously to your gas bill: roughly a fifth of the world's oil supply normally passes through it. When shipping through it slows or stalls, traders price in a "risk premium" almost immediately — and that shows up at Canadian pumps within days, not weeks. What it mea...

article

EU Prepares for Potential Trade Retaliation Against US Tariffs

The European Union has announced its readiness to counteract U.S. tariffs with a robust plan, should the need arise. Speaking to the European Parliament, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, emphasized the EU's preference for a negotiated solution but affirmed its preparedness to protect its interests, citizens, and businesses if necessary.

The U.S. administration, under President Donald Trump, has recently imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, with additional duties on cars expected soon. Von der Leyen criticized these measures, highlighting their potential to fuel inflation and increase costs for American industries. She also underscored the importance of diversifying trade and removing internal barriers within the EU's single market to strengthen its economic resilience.

While the EU remains open to dialogue, von der Leyen assured lawmakers that all necessary instruments are on the table to respond decisively if required. The bloc's strategy reflects its commitment to safeguarding its economic stability and maintaining a balanced global trade environment.

Comments