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Democrats Win U.S. Congress: What It Means for Canadian Tariffs and Your Wallet

  Canadian Money Brief • Wednesday, November 4, 2026 Democrats have won control of both the U.S. House and Senate, including seats in states Donald Trump carried by double digits two years ago. For Canadians, the big question is simple: does this end the tariffs? The short answer is not yet. What happened The Associated Press and major U.S. networks called the Senate for Democrats late Tuesday night and the House early Wednesday. Democrats flipped seven Republican-held Senate seats, according to Forbes’ tally of AP calls, including Maine, North Carolina, Iowa, Ohio and Texas. In the House, roughly 75 races were still undecided at last report, and the new Congress does not take over until 2027. Democratic leaders framed the result as a call for change, while news outlets widely described it as a rebuke of President Trump. Trump told the New York Times he was “absolutely willing” to accept the results and said Republicans would work with Democrats. Why it matters in Canada Democrati...

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Seven Ways the 2024 Federal Budget Impacts Your Finances

 

The 2024 federal budget in Canada has introduced several measures that directly affect your financial well-being. Let’s explore seven key ways this budget impacts you:

  1. Capital Gains Inclusion Rate Increase:

    • The budget proposes raising the capital gains inclusion rate from 50% to 66.67% for corporations, trusts, and individuals (for capital gains exceeding $250,000) on or after June 25, 2024.
    • This change affects how much tax you pay when selling assets like stocks, real estate, or businesses.
  2. Employee Stock Options:

    • If you receive employee stock options, the taxable benefit deduction will be reduced to 33.33% (from 50%) due to the higher capital gains inclusion rate.
    • However, you can still claim a combined deduction of up to $250,000 for both stock options and capital gains.
  3. Net Capital Losses:

    • Prior-year net capital losses can offset taxable capital gains in the current year, even after the rate change.
    • This means losses realized before the rate increase can fully offset equivalent gains afterward.
  4. Affordable Housing Initiatives:

    • The budget aims to build more affordable homes, addressing the challenge of elevated living costs.
    • While there are no changes to personal tax brackets, housing affordability remains a priority.
  5. Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT):

    • The budget proposes amendments to AMT proposals, reducing the negative impact on charitable donations’ tax treatment.
    • This benefits those who contribute to charities while minimizing their tax liability.
  6. Carbon Tax Offset:

    • Although not explicitly mentioned, the budget likely includes measures to offset the carbon tax impact on households.
    • These efforts align with environmental goals and may affect your energy costs.
  7. Small Business Investment:

    • Expect further investment incentives for small businesses, encouraging growth and job creation.
    • The budget aims to boost the economy and support entrepreneurs.

In summary, the 2024 federal budget combines tax changes, housing initiatives, and economic strategies to enhance financial stability for Canadians. Stay informed and adapt your financial plans accordingly.

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