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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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Trump and Republicans Set Ambitious 100-Day Agenda with Focus on Tax Cuts


In a bold move, President-elect Donald Trump and the Republican majority in Congress are gearing up for an ambitious 100-day agenda, with tax cuts taking center stage. The plan aims to renew approximately $4 trillion in expiring GOP tax cuts, a hallmark of Trump's first term. 

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise emphasized the urgency of being prepared from Day 1, as GOP lawmakers have been meeting privately with Trump to outline their strategy. The proposed policies will reignite debates on America's priorities, income inequality, and the size and scope of government, especially given the mounting federal deficits nearing $2 trillion annually.

The tax cuts, initially passed in 2017, have significantly benefited higher-income households, with the top 1% receiving substantial reductions. As Republicans prepare to extend and enhance these cuts, they also plan to lower the corporate tax rate further and eliminate taxes on tips and overtime pay.

This ambitious agenda will test whether Trump and his allies can deliver the outcomes voters expect, having granted them control of both Congress and the White House.


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