Tariff Threats and Economic Data Heighten Uncertainty for the Canadian Dollar

Tariff Threats and Economic Data Heighten Uncertainty for the Canadian Dollar

Canadian Dollar Races to New Low Amid Trump‑Tire Talk

Looks like the CAD is feeling the heat (and the winter chill) as it nudges toward a multi‑year trough, thanks to whispers about President Trump’s looming tariff show‑off.

What’s Behind the Slump?

  • Trump’s “Tariff Threat”: No in‑person announcement yet, but the market’s already spooked. A “tactical” approach might actually calm the nerves a bit.
  • Trudeau’s “We’re Ready” Stance: The PM brings his own brand of uncertainty—if tariffs hit, Canada’s reply could make the dollar feel more shaky.

Inside Canada: Industry & Prices

December’s Industrial Product Price Index (IPPI) nudged up 0.2%—the third straight month of growth, though the jump was a touch shy of what folks were hoping for. On the yearly front, it’s up 4.1%.

Why the rise? Think cars and aluminum:

  • Automobiles kept the engines revving.
  • Aluminum prices climbed because China pulled the plug on export tax breaks, tightening supply.

These rising commodity costs are a sweet spot for the CAD, giving it a lift.

Raw Materials & Oil: A Mixed Bag

Raw Materials Price Index (RMPI) actually leapt 1.3% in December—breaking expectations and fueling a 9.1% yearly surge. But oil? It’s still under threat from a potential slowdown in global growth, especially if trade rattles get louder.

Remember, Canada’s alive on the crude oil trade, so a bearish oil outlook could slam the CAD harder.

Future Forecasts: Why We’ll Be Watching

  • British‑style uncertainty over trade rules keeps the CAD on a bumpy ride.
  • Bank of Canada might cut rates soon—usually a sideways move for the dollar.
  • Retail sales numbers that fall short could trigger more selling pressure.

All in all: expect the Canadian dollar to hold its breath until we see how the trade saga unfolds.

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