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Canada’s Auto Industry Is Split on a U.S. Tariff Deal: What It Means for Your Wallet

  Canadian Money Brief • Tariffs & Trade • Saturday, November 14, 2026 Ottawa is once again trying to land a tariff deal with Washington. This time, the biggest fight may be inside Canada's own auto industry, and the outcome could reach your paycheque, your car purchase and your savings. Canada's auto manufacturers agree on the goal: get U.S. tariffs on Canadian-built vehicles down. They do not agree on how fast to move or what to accept. According to a Globe and Mail report published overnight, the Detroit Three (Ford, GM and Stellantis) want a deal sooner rather than later, even an imperfect one, while Honda and Toyota are pushing Ottawa toward a very different design. It matters now because of the clock. Canadian-built vehicles already face a 25% U.S. tariff on their non-American content, and Washington has threatened to double the headline rate to 50% on January 1, 2027. Honda has warned that doubling would be catastrophic for the North American industry. Prime Minister...

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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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