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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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French Government to Resign: A Caretaker Transition Amid Political Turmoil

 

French President Emmanuel Macron is poised to accept the resignation of Prime Minister Gabriel Attal and his government by the end of the day. This move comes after an inconclusive snap election, but the current administration will remain in a caretaker capacity until a new cabinet is appointed. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Caretaker Government: Attal’s government will continue to handle emergency situations and manage current affairs in the euro zone’s second-largest economy. However, they won’t be able to propose new legislation or make significant changes. Notably, this caretaker government will oversee the smooth running of the upcoming Olympics, scheduled to begin on July 26.

  2. Left-Wing Struggles: Left-wing parties are embroiled in a bitter dispute over who should be the next prime minister. The New Popular Front (NFP), an alliance of socialists, Greens, and communists, unexpectedly topped the vote in the recent snap election. However, tensions persist over forming a left-wing government.

  3. Mainstream Alliance: President Macron has called for mainstream parties to forge an alliance, potentially including elements of the NFP but excluding France Unbowed. The urgency to find a solution is high, as Communist party leader Fabien Roussel warns of a potential “shipwreck” if consensus isn’t reached.

In summary, France faces a delicate political landscape as it navigates this caretaker transition. The fate of the next government remains uncertain, and all eyes are on the negotiations between competing factions. Stay tuned for further developments.


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