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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's AI-Generated Pope Image Sparks Controversy Online

 

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again stirred debate after posting an AI-generated image of himself dressed as the Pope. The image, which first appeared on Trump's Truth Social account and was later shared by the official White House social media account, has drawn mixed reactions from the public and religious communities.

The timing of the post has added to the controversy, as it comes just days before the Vatican's conclave to elect a new Pope following the passing of Pope Francis. Many Catholics and religious leaders have criticized the image, calling it disrespectful and inappropriate during a period of mourning. The New York State Catholic Conference, which represents bishops in New York, condemned the post, stating, "There is nothing clever or funny about this image, Mr. President. We just buried our beloved Pope Francis and the cardinals are about to enter a solemn conclave to elect a new successor of St. Peter. Do not mock us".

Trump, who attended Pope Francis' funeral in Rome last week, has previously joked about wanting to be Pope, further fueling reactions to the AI-generated image. While some of his supporters defended the post as a harmless joke, others saw it as another example of Trump's unconventional approach to public discourse.

The Vatican has declined to comment on the image, and discussions continue online about the implications of AI-generated content in political and religious spaces. As the conclave approaches, the controversy surrounding Trump's post remains a hot topic of debate.

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