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Oil Prices Are Spiking — Here's What It Means for Your Gas Tank and Grocery Bill

  Published July 17, 2026 Crude oil is trading near one-month highs this week, and if you've filled up your tank recently, you've probably already felt it. The culprit: an escalating conflict in the Middle East that's disrupting one of the world's most important oil shipping routes — and it's starting to show up at Canadian pumps and, eventually, on grocery store shelves. What's happening with oil prices West Texas Intermediate (WTI), the North American benchmark, has been trading around the $79–$80 per barrel range this week — up roughly 5% over the past month. Brent crude, the global benchmark that matters more for what Canadians pay at the pump, has been hovering near $85 per barrel, also near a one-month high. The spike traces back to renewed fighting between the U.S. and Iran. The U.S. reimposed a naval blockade on Iran and has intensified strikes, while Iran has responded with attacks on U.S. bases and threats to disrupt regional energy shipments further. ...

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Essential Retirement Investing Tips

 


Start Early and Be Consistent

When it comes to retirement investing, it's crucial to start early and be consistent. The power of compounding works wonders over time, so the earlier you begin investing for retirement, the more time your money has to grow. Take advantage of retirement accounts such as RRSP that offer tax advantages and employer matching contributions if available. Set up automatic contributions from your paycheck to ensure a consistent investment habit. Remember that even small contributions can make a significant difference over several decades of investing.

 

Diversify Your Investments

Diversification is another key aspect of retirement investing. Spreading your investments across different asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate, can help reduce risk and increase potential returns. Consider diversifying within each asset class as well. For stocks, for instance, diversify across different industries and sectors. This way, if one investment performs poorly, the impact on your overall portfolio may be mitigated. Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to maintain diversification and adjust your asset allocation as you approach retirement to reduce risk further.

 

Maintain a Long-Term Perspective

Finally, it's essential to have a long-term perspective and avoid making impulsive investment decisions based on short-term market fluctuations. Market volatility is a natural part of investing, and trying to time the market consistently is challenging. Instead, focus on your long-term goals and stick to your investment plan. Consider consulting with a financial advisor who can provide guidance and help you navigate the complexities of retirement investing. Regularly assess your progress and adjust your investment strategy as needed, but avoid making knee-jerk reactions based on temporary market conditions. Remember, retirement investing is a marathon, not a sprint.

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