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How the Strait of Hormuz Crisis Is Hitting Your Wallet Right Now

Published May 17, 2026  |  Category: Oil Prices & Energy  |  By MoneySavings.ca If you've winced lately at the gas pump or noticed your grocery bill creeping up, you're not imagining it. A geopolitical crisis unfolding halfway around the world — at a narrow strip of water between Iran and Oman — is directly squeezing Canadian budgets. Here's everything you need to know, and what you can do about it. What Is the Strait of Hormuz? The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway just 33 kilometres wide at its tightest point, connecting the Persian Gulf to the open ocean. Despite its modest size, it is the world's single most critical energy chokepoint. Before this crisis, roughly 20 million barrels of oil moved through it every single day — about 20% of all the world's seaborne oil supply, plus significant volumes of liquefied natural gas (LNG). Think of it as the world's energy jugular vein. When it gets blocked, the entire planet feels it. What Happened? On Februa...
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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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