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Sept 15 Tariff Shift: What's Actually Changing on Canadian Goods (And What Isn't)

  Published September 12, 2026 At 12:01 a.m. ET on Tuesday, September 15, a new round of U.S. tariff changes takes effect on Canadian goods. If you've seen headlines calling this a "new 50% tariff on Canadian steel, aluminum and paper," here's the more accurate story: it isn't a new tariff at all. It's the U.S. reshuffling which products fall under a 50% tariff that's already been in place since August 22 — adding some categories, removing others, on the same day. Here's what's actually happening, and why it matters more to Canadian manufacturers and cross-border shoppers than to your everyday grocery bill. The tariff this modifies Back on August 22, 2026, the U.S. imposed a 50% tariff under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 on roughly $20 billion CAD of Canadian goods. The White House framed it as retaliation for Canadian "discrimination" against U.S. alcoholic beverages, dairy, and motor vehicles — three separate proclamations, eac...

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5 Things to Know Today: Trump Threatens New Auto Tariffs as Gold Hits a Record

 

August 25, 2026

Here's what's moving markets and your wallet today — from a fresh tariff threat on the auto sector to gold's latest record and a countdown you'll want on your calendar.

1. Trump Threatens to Raise Canadian Auto Tariffs to 50%

President Trump said on social media Monday that he plans to raise tariffs on Canadian autos, parts, and steel to 50% starting January 1, 2027, warning that "Canada will be treated like a State no longer." The threat rattled auto-sector stocks, with Magna, BRP, and Linamar all trading lower Monday even as the broader TSX closed at a fresh record of 36,714.12.

What it means for you: This lands on top of the 50% tariffs that already took effect August 22 and the Sept. 8 retaliation tariffs Ottawa is preparing. If you work in or near the auto sector — especially in Windsor, Oshawa, or Brampton — this is a threat worth watching closely over the next few months, not an immediate price change.

2. Gold Just Hit a Fresh Record Above $4,700

Gold touched a new record Tuesday, with the December futures contract at $4,697.80 and spot prices briefly topping $4,700 an ounce, as investors keep piling into safe havens amid the trade and geopolitical uncertainty.

What it means for you: If you hold gold ETFs or mining stocks inside a TFSA or RRSP, this run has been a real tailwind. But records can reverse quickly — this isn't the moment to chase gold with money you'll need soon.

3. The Loonie Slipped on the New Tariff Threat

The Canadian dollar eased to roughly 72.24-72.27 US cents (about 1.383-1.385 USD/CAD) Monday, down from Friday's 72.67 cents, as the fresh tariff threat weighed on the currency after weeks near multi-month highs.

What it means for you: If you're planning US travel or online shopping in USD, this pullback makes it slightly more expensive than it was last week. It's a small move so far — worth watching, not panicking over.

4. Big Bank Earnings Week Kicks Off

BMO and Scotiabank report Tuesday, followed by National Bank Wednesday and CIBC, RBC, and TD Thursday. Bank earnings often include forward guidance on mortgage demand, loan-loss provisions, and consumer credit stress — all signals worth watching given this week's Equifax data on Canadians struggling with minimum credit card payments.

What it means for you: If you're renewing a mortgage or carrying a balance, bank commentary this week can hint at where lending conditions are headed into the Sept. 2 Bank of Canada decision.

5. Gas Tax Holiday's Clock Is Down to 13 Days

The federal gas tax holiday expires September 7, and with 13 days left, pump prices are expected to tick back up shortly after Labour Day as the tax is reinstated.

What it means for you: If you've got a road trip or a big fill-up coming, doing it before September 7 could save you a few dollars a tank. It's not a huge amount, but it adds up if you're driving a lot this month.

This is part of our daily Canadian Money Brief series, tracking the financial news that actually affects your wallet. Check back tomorrow for the next update.

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