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How the Strait of Hormuz Crisis Is Hitting Your Wallet Right Now

Published May 17, 2026  |  Category: Oil Prices & Energy  |  By MoneySavings.ca If you've winced lately at the gas pump or noticed your grocery bill creeping up, you're not imagining it. A geopolitical crisis unfolding halfway around the world — at a narrow strip of water between Iran and Oman — is directly squeezing Canadian budgets. Here's everything you need to know, and what you can do about it. What Is the Strait of Hormuz? The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway just 33 kilometres wide at its tightest point, connecting the Persian Gulf to the open ocean. Despite its modest size, it is the world's single most critical energy chokepoint. Before this crisis, roughly 20 million barrels of oil moved through it every single day — about 20% of all the world's seaborne oil supply, plus significant volumes of liquefied natural gas (LNG). Think of it as the world's energy jugular vein. When it gets blocked, the entire planet feels it. What Happened? On Februa...

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Market Watch: U.S. Stock Futures Hold Steady Amid Trade Talks

U.S. stock index futures remained subdued on Friday following a strong rally in the previous session. Investors are closely monitoring upcoming trade discussions between U.S. and Chinese representatives in Switzerland, which could shape market sentiment heading into next week.

The recent rally was fueled by a new trade agreement between the United States and Britain, sparking optimism that similar deals could ease global trade tensions. However, analysts caution that the limited scope of the agreement raises questions about its broader impact.

Meanwhile, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell acknowledged heightened risks of inflation and unemployment, leaving markets in a wait-and-watch mode. At 5:36 a.m. ET, Dow E-minis were down 48 points (0.12%), while S&P 500 E-minis and Nasdaq 100 E-minis showed slight gains.

Investors will also be keeping an eye on corporate earnings, with notable movements in stocks such as Trade Desk, Pinterest, and Expedia in premarket trading. The outcome of the U.S.-China talks could set the tone for next week's market direction.


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