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AIR MILES Is Gone. Here's What Actually Earns You Travel Now

  If you've been holding onto a Air Miles card waiting to redeem for a flight, the program you signed up for doesn't exist anymore — and the cards that replaced it aren't the best game in town. If you searched "best AIR MILES credit card" and landed here, there's something you need to know first: there is no such thing anymore. AIR MILES, the loyalty program that's been part of Canadian wallets since 1992, officially became BMO Blue Rewards on June 2, 2026. BMO had already stopped issuing new AIR MILES cards back in January, and every collector's Miles converted automatically into Blue Points at a rate of roughly 1 Air Mile to 15.79 Blue Points — no action needed, no lost value. That's good news if you're a longtime collector sitting on a pile of Miles. It's less good news if you were hoping to earn free flights that way going forward, because Blue Rewards was built to compete with PC Optimum and Scene+ — grocery, gas, and everyday spendi...

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India Stands Firm on Russian Oil Imports Amid Trump’s Tariff Warnings

 

An oil refinery in Guwahati, India, in 2023. Russia is the source of more than one third of India’s oil imports.

India will maintain its purchases of Russian oil despite threats of tariffs from former U.S. President Donald Trump, according to senior government sources. The decision underscores New Delhi’s commitment to energy security and strategic autonomy, even as geopolitical tensions rise.

Trump, who has recently intensified his rhetoric on trade and foreign policy, warned of potential tariffs on countries continuing business with Russia. However, Indian officials argue that their oil imports are driven by national interest and market dynamics, not political alignment.

“India’s energy needs are substantial, and Russian crude offers competitive pricing,” said one official familiar with the matter. “We will not compromise our economic priorities based on external pressure.”

Since the onset of the Ukraine conflict, India has significantly increased its intake of discounted Russian oil, helping to cushion domestic inflation and support economic growth. While Western nations have imposed sanctions on Moscow, India has maintained a neutral stance, advocating dialogue and diplomacy.

Analysts suggest that Trump’s threats may have limited impact, especially given India’s growing global clout and diversified trade relationships. “India is no longer a passive player—it’s a strategic actor with its own calculus,” said a senior energy expert.

As global energy markets remain volatile, India’s decision signals a broader shift toward multipolarity, where nations prioritize pragmatic partnerships over ideological alliances.

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