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5 Things to Know Today: Retaliation Tariffs Hit, Oil Spikes on Saudi Strikes

  Tuesday, September 8, 2026 — Your morning rundown of the Canadian financial news that actually affects your wallet. 1. Canada's $27.6B Retaliation Tariffs Take Effect At 12:01 a.m. today, Canada's countermeasures against more than 700 U.S. products came into force, matching Washington's August 22 tariffs dollar-for-dollar. Tariffs on American steel and aluminum double to 50%, while new levies of 15% to 50% now apply to dairy, appliances, agricultural equipment, pulp and paper, and electronics. A $7.5-billion support package is rolling out for affected Canadian businesses. What it means for you: U.S.-made appliances (fridges, freezers, washers, dryers, ranges) now carry a 25% tariff, and cheese, whey, and milk powder imports jump 25%–50%. Shopping for a new appliance or specialty dairy product? Expect price increases to show up at retail over the coming weeks. 2. Oil Surges to ~$99 on Overnight Saudi Strikes Overnight strikes on Saudi energy facilities pushed Brent crude...
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Banks face challenges as fiscal year ends

                                     

The fiscal year 2023 has been a tough one for Canada’s major banks, as they faced rising costs, regulatory pressures and credit risks. Analysts expect their fourth-quarter earnings, which will be reported this week, to show a decline from last year.

Some of the challenges that the banks encountered this year include:

  • Cost-cutting measures: Some banks, such as RBC and Scotiabank, have reduced their work force and real estate holdings to lower their expenses. Others, such as BMO, have completed or planned major integrations of their acquisitions.
  • Regulatory scrutiny: TD Bank is awaiting the outcome of investigations by U.S. authorities over its anti-money-laundering practices, which could result in fines or other penalties. RBC’s proposed takeover of HSBC’s Canadian unit has also faced opposition from political and environmental groups.
  • Credit risks: As interest rates rise and inflation persists, the banks have increased their provisions for potential loan losses, anticipating higher defaults from their borrowers. The banks are also required to hold more capital by the banking watchdog, OSFI, to cushion against an economic downturn.
  • Slow loan growth: The demand for lending has been dampened by the high cost of borrowing and the uncertainty over the economic recovery. The banks have also faced stiff competition from fintechs and other non-bank lenders, who offer more convenient and cheaper alternatives.

Despite these headwinds, the banks are still well-positioned to weather the storm, as they have strong capital ratios, diversified businesses and loyal customers. The banks are also investing in digital transformation, innovation and growth opportunities, especially in international markets. Analysts and investors will be looking for signs of resilience and optimism from the banks as they wrap up the fiscal year.

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