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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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Market Optimism Prevails: Global Shares Soar Following Reassuring Fed Chief's Speech

                         


In today's stock market action, global shares have predominantly surged following a speech by the Federal Reserve chief. The market sentiment has been largely positive as investors react to the comments made by the head of the Federal Reserve regarding the central bank's stance on monetary policy and its commitment to supporting economic recovery. The speech emphasized a balanced approach, aiming to ensure sustained economic growth while closely monitoring inflationary pressures. This assurance from the Fed has provided reassurance to investors who had been anxiously observing signs of potential policy tightening.

Equity markets in various regions, including Asia, Europe, and the United States, have responded favorably to the speech. The prospect of continued accommodative measures, coupled with the Fed's willingness to adapt its strategies based on evolving economic conditions, has boosted investor confidence. Tech stocks and sectors sensitive to interest rates, which had experienced heightened volatility in recent weeks, saw gains as concerns eased. However, analysts are also cautious about the ongoing global supply chain challenges and the potential for sporadic market fluctuations in the coming days as economic indicators are closely monitored for any shifts in the recovery trajectory. Overall, the Federal Reserve chief's speech has injected a sense of optimism into the markets, leading to a broad-based rise in global shares.






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