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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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How to Eat Healthy on a Budget in 2024

 


The cost of food is expected to rise by 3.5% in 2024, according to the latest report from the Food and Agriculture Organization. This means that eating healthy can be challenging for many people who are on a tight budget. However, there are some ways to save money and still enjoy nutritious meals. Here are some tips:

- Plan your meals ahead and make a shopping list. This will help you avoid impulse buying and wasting food. You can also look for sales and discounts on items that you need.

- Buy in bulk and freeze or store the leftovers. You can save money by buying larger quantities of staples like rice, beans, pasta, oats, and frozen vegetables. You can also cook large batches of soups, stews, casseroles, and other dishes and freeze them for later use.

- Choose seasonal and local produce. Fruits and vegetables that are in season and grown locally are usually cheaper and fresher than those that are imported or out of season. You can also visit farmers' markets or join a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program to get fresh produce at a lower price.

- Grow your own food. If you have some space and time, you can grow your own herbs, salad greens, tomatoes, peppers, and other crops in pots, containers, or a small garden. This will not only save you money but also give you access to organic and pesticide-free food.

- Cook from scratch and avoid processed foods. Processed foods are often high in salt, sugar, fat, and additives, which can harm your health and increase your medical bills. Cooking from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and the portion sizes. You can also use cheaper cuts of meat, such as chicken thighs, ground beef, or pork shoulder, and make them tender and flavorful by using marinades, spices, herbs, and slow cooking methods.

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