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Canadian Money Brief: 5 Things to Know Today — May 18, 2026

  A quick scan of the five stories shaping your wallet right now — from the Bank of Canada's next big decision to your mortgage renewal and a brand-new federal agency hunting financial criminals. 1 Bank of Canada Rate Holds at 2.25% — Next Decision Is June 10 The Bank of Canada kept its overnight policy rate steady at 2.25% at its April 29 meeting, citing a rise in energy-driven inflation and ongoing uncertainty from U.S. tariffs. Governing Council held firm while acknowledging a rate hike could become necessary if oil-linked price pressures prove persistent. The next announcement lands on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 — mark your calendar. Why it matters: Your variable-rate mortgage, HELOC, and lines of credit are directly tied to this rate. With bank prime rates sitting at 4.45%, every meeting counts. 2 Markets TSX Slips Below 34,000 as Bond Yields Spike The S&P/TSX Composite Index finished last week down close to 2%, sliding under the 34,000 mark. A global bond market selloff...

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Tech Relief: U.S. Exempts Electronics from Latest Tariffs

In a significant move, the U.S. government has decided to exempt smartphones, computers, and other electronics from its latest round of tariffs. This decision, announced by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, provides much-needed relief to major technology firms like Apple and Dell Technologies, as well as chip manufacturers such as Nvidia.

The exemptions cover 20 product categories, including laptops, hard drives, memory chips, and flat-panel monitors. These items, primarily imported from China, will no longer be subject to the steep 125% reciprocal tariffs or the 10% baseline tariffs on imports from other countries. This move is expected to ease the financial burden on consumers and tech companies alike, especially as many of these products are not manufactured domestically.

Analysts have hailed the decision as a positive step for the tech industry, which has been grappling with uncertainties due to ongoing trade tensions. Dan Ives, a Wedbush Securities analyst, described the announcement as "bullish news" for tech investors. 

The exemptions reflect an awareness of the potential impact of tariffs on inflation-weary consumers and the broader economy. While the trade war between the U.S. and China continues, this decision offers a temporary reprieve for the tech sector. 



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