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5 Things to Know Today: Tariffs, a CPI Surprise, and the Mortgage Rate Gap

  July 21, 2026 A new round of US tariffs, a surprise inflation dip, and a widening gap between fixed and variable mortgage rates are all moving in different directions today. Here's what's happening and what it means for your money. 1. Washington hits Canada with new 50% tariffs on everyday goods The White House has announced fresh 50% tariffs on a wide list of Canadian exports, including wine, dairy, furniture, hockey equipment, cement, and clothing. The move is framed as retaliation over Canada's dairy quotas, car import rules, and provincial bans on US alcohol. The tariffs take effect August 19 and apply even to goods that would normally qualify duty-free under CUSMA, though energy, potash, fish, and critical minerals are exempt. What it means for you: This round targets export industries, not imports into Canada, so it won't directly raise shelf prices here the way a Canadian tariff on US goods would. The bigger risk is indirect — job pressure in affected sectors ...

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U.S. Diplomacy at a Crossroads: Trump and Rubio Signal Urgency in Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks

In a pivotal moment for international diplomacy, President Donald Trump has called on Russia to halt its attacks on Ukraine, emphasizing the need for immediate action to end the ongoing conflict. Trump's remarks come as U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warns that the United States may reconsider its role in mediating peace efforts if progress remains elusive.

During a recent meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Vatican, Trump expressed frustration over Russia's continued aggression, stating that there was "no reason for Putin to be shooting missiles into civilian areas." Rubio echoed the urgency, describing the coming week as "critical" for determining whether the U.S. will continue its involvement in the peace process.

The stakes are high, with both leaders underscoring the importance of a negotiated settlement to end the war. However, the path forward remains fraught with challenges, as territorial disputes and security guarantees continue to be major sticking points in the negotiations. 

This moment could define the future of U.S. engagement in global conflict resolution, as the administration balances its commitment to peace with the realities of geopolitical complexities.

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