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5 Things to Know Today: Tariffs, a CPI Surprise, and the Mortgage Rate Gap

  July 21, 2026 A new round of US tariffs, a surprise inflation dip, and a widening gap between fixed and variable mortgage rates are all moving in different directions today. Here's what's happening and what it means for your money. 1. Washington hits Canada with new 50% tariffs on everyday goods The White House has announced fresh 50% tariffs on a wide list of Canadian exports, including wine, dairy, furniture, hockey equipment, cement, and clothing. The move is framed as retaliation over Canada's dairy quotas, car import rules, and provincial bans on US alcohol. The tariffs take effect August 19 and apply even to goods that would normally qualify duty-free under CUSMA, though energy, potash, fish, and critical minerals are exempt. What it means for you: This round targets export industries, not imports into Canada, so it won't directly raise shelf prices here the way a Canadian tariff on US goods would. The bigger risk is indirect — job pressure in affected sectors ...

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How U.S. Tariffs on Canada Could Drive Up Prices for Consumers


With the possibility of new U.S. tariffs on Canadian imports, consumers may soon see higher prices on everyday goods. Canada is a key trade partner, supplying everything from raw materials to finished products. If tariffs are imposed, here’s what could get expensive first:

  1. Lumber & Construction Materials – Canada is the largest foreign supplier of softwood lumber to the U.S. Tariffs could raise homebuilding and renovation costs.
  2. Vehicles & Auto Parts – Canadian auto plants export billions in cars and parts annually. Higher costs could lead to increased vehicle prices.
  3. Food & Beverages – From maple syrup to seafood, Canadian agricultural exports would likely see price hikes at U.S. grocery stores.
  4. Aluminum & Steel Products – These metals are essential for industries like aerospace, construction, and beverage packaging, meaning everything from soda cans to airplanes could get pricier.
  5. Energy & Fuel – Canada is a major oil and gas supplier. Tariffs on crude oil imports could lead to higher gas prices at the pump.

While the U.S. could use tariffs as a tool for trade negotiations, the economic impact on consumers and industries would be hard to ignore. Whether these measures are implemented remains to be seen, but the potential for price increases is real.

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