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5 Things to Know Today: Your Canadian Money Brief

  Wednesday, April 29, 2026 | moneysavings.ca/canadian-money-brief 1. The Bank of Canada Is Watching — And So Should You Markets are closely parsing every signal from the Bank of Canada ahead of its next rate announcement. With inflation holding stubbornly above target in key categories like shelter and groceries, economists are split on whether another cut is on the table or a longer hold is in store. If you're carrying variable-rate debt or sitting on a GIC renewal, now is the time to model both scenarios. What to do: Don't lock into a long-term rate product until after the next announcement. A few days of patience could save you thousands. 2. Spring Housing Market: More Listings, Less Panic After years of near-empty inventory, more Canadian sellers are finally listing — particularly in the Greater Toronto Area and Greater Vancouver. The uptick in supply is giving buyers breathing room they haven't seen since pre-pandemic times. That said, prices haven't mean...
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Global Markets Surge as Japan–US Trade Pact Calms Tariff Storm

Global financial markets rallied on July 23 following the announcement of a landmark trade agreement between Japan and the United States, easing months of uncertainty surrounding international tariffs and trade policy.

The deal, hailed by President Donald Trump as “perhaps the largest trade deal in history,” sets a 15% reciprocal tariff on Japanese exports to the U.S., down from the previously threatened 25% rate. In return, Japan has pledged a $550 billion investment in U.S. industries, including semiconductors, energy, and agriculture.

Market Reaction:

  • Japan’s Nikkei 225 surged over 3.5%, led by auto giants like Toyota (+14%), Honda (+11%), and Mazda (+18%).
  • U.S. indices also climbed, with the S&P 500 hitting a new record high and the Dow Jones rising 0.4%.
  • European markets followed suit, buoyed by hopes that similar deals might be reached with the EU before the August 1 tariff deadline.

Economic Implications: While the 15% tariff is still significant, analysts argue it’s a manageable level that brings clarity to global supply chains. “Even a higher tariff is preferable to continued uncertainty,” said George Lagarias, chief economist at Mazars.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, under political pressure after a recent election loss, called the deal a “win-win” and emphasized its strategic importance for both nations.

What’s Next: The agreement sets a benchmark for other countries negotiating with the U.S. ahead of the August 1 deadline. Eyes are now on the EU, South Korea, and Canada, which face potential tariffs of up to 30–35% if no deals are struck.


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