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5 Things to Know Today: Inflation Data, a Tariff Countdown, and a Big Energy Deal

  August 17, 2026 Inflation data lands this morning, the clock on the U.S. tariff deadline is down to two days, and a long-running provincial energy dispute is about to be settled. Here's what's moving your money today. 1. Today's Inflation Report Could Set the Tone for September Statistics Canada releases July's Consumer Price Index this morning. Economists are expecting the annual rate to tick up to roughly 2.9%, from 2.8% in June, mainly because gasoline prices swung higher again in July after the Middle East conflict pushed oil prices back up. Core inflation measures, which the Bank of Canada watches most closely, aren't expected to move much. What it means for you: A hotter-than-expected print would make it less likely the Bank of Canada cuts rates at its September 2 meeting, which matters if you're renewing a variable-rate mortgage or carrying a line of credit. A softer number keeps a cut on the table. 2. The Tariff Deadline Is Two Days Away, and Talks Are...

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Trump Criticizes Federal Reserve Chair Powell Over Tariff Remarks

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President Donald Trump has publicly expressed dissatisfaction with Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, hinting at his removal following Powell's comments on the economic impact of tariffs. Powell, in a recent speech, highlighted the potential for increased inflation and slowed economic growth due to the tariffs, which he described as larger than anticipated.

Trump, in a social media post, criticized Powell for not lowering interest rates aggressively, comparing the Federal Reserve's approach unfavorably to the European Central Bank. He stated that Powell's "termination cannot come fast enough," despite legal protections that prevent the president from firing the Federal Reserve Chair without cause.

Powell, who was initially appointed by Trump in 2018 and reappointed in 2022, has emphasized the Federal Reserve's independence and commitment to making decisions based on economic analysis rather than political pressure. This clash underscores ongoing tensions between the administration and the central bank over monetary policy and economic strategy.

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