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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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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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