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The CUSMA Countdown: 24 Days to a Trade Deadline That Could Hit Your Wallet

Canada's free trade deal with the U.S. hits a mandatory review milestone on July 1. With negotiations unresolved and Washington demanding changes, here's what it actually means for your groceries, your car, and your job. MoneySavings.ca Staff Canadian Money Brief June 7, 2026 5 min read What Is CUSMA and Why Does July 1 Matter? CUSMA — the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement — is the trade deal that keeps the North American economy humming. It replaced NAFTA in 2020 and governs the movement of trillions of dollars in goods and services across the Canada-U.S. border every year. For Canadian consumers, it's largely invisible — until it isn't. Built into the agreement is a mandatory six-year joint review, and that clock expires on July 1, 2026 . By that date, all three countries must declare whether they want to renew the deal for another 16 years, trigger annual reviews, or walk away. Whatever they decide, CUSMA technically stays in force until 2036 — but the path chose...
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How to Overcome the January Blues After Overspending in December



The festive season is over, and you may be feeling the pinch of your holiday spending. If you overspent in December, you may be facing a tight budget, high credit card bills, or even debt in January. This can lead to stress, anxiety, or depression, also known as the January blues. However, there are ways to cope with this situation and start the new year on a positive note. Here are some tips to help you overcome the January blues after overspending in December:

  • Make a budget and stick to it. The first step to getting your finances back on track is to create a realistic budget that covers your essential expenses and allows you to pay off your debts. Track your income and spending, and cut down on unnecessary costs. You can use apps, spreadsheets, or online tools to help you with this. A budget will help you avoid overspending and plan for the future.
  • Seek professional help if needed. If you are struggling with debt, you may need to seek professional help from a financial advisor, a debt counselor, or a credit counseling agency. They can help you negotiate with your creditors, consolidate your debts, or create a repayment plan that suits your situation. Don’t be ashamed to ask for help, as it can save you from further financial trouble and stress.
  • Find ways to earn extra income. If your budget is too tight, you may need to find ways to increase your income. You can look for a part-time job, sell some of your unwanted items, or offer your skills or services online. There are many opportunities to make money online, such as freelancing, blogging, tutoring, or taking surveys. You can also ask your employer for a raise, a bonus, or overtime pay if possible.
  • Practice self-care and gratitude. Overspending can take a toll on your mental and emotional health, so it’s important to take care of yourself and your well-being. Find healthy ways to cope with stress, such as meditation, exercise, hobbies, or spending time with friends and family. Avoid using alcohol, drugs, or gambling as coping mechanisms, as they can worsen your situation. Also, practice gratitude for what you have, and focus on the positive aspects of your life. You can write down three things you are grateful for every day, or express your appreciation to someone who has helped you.
  • Set realistic goals and celebrate your progress. Finally, set realistic and achievable goals for your financial recovery, and track your progress. For example, you can set a goal to pay off a certain amount of debt by a certain date, or to save up for an emergency fund. Celebrate your milestones, no matter how small, and reward yourself with something that doesn’t cost money, such as a movie night, a walk in the park, or a compliment. This will help you stay motivated and optimistic.
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