TLDR
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Trade tensions between Canada and the U.S. can create economic uncertainty.
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Tariffs may lead to the higher cost of goods, rising inflation and potential job market disruptions.
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Uncertainty can also lead to market volatility, causing stock prices to fluctuate more than usual
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While it’s natural to feel unsettled, small adjustments to your financial plan can help you stay confident and in control.
In the face of uncertainty stirred up by the talk of tariffs, it’s natural to feel uneasy about your finances. Here are some tips to help protect your money and weather change with confidence.
The ongoing talk of tariffs has created a wave of uncertainty among Canadians. You might be wondering how it will affect your finances, your job or your long-term goals. The good news? While some factors remain beyond your control, there are small, practical steps you can take to help protect your financial well-being – and staying informed is the first. Here are some practical tips and strategies to help you navigate this uncertain time and feel more confident moving forward.
What are tariffs and why do they matter to you?
For many years, Canada has enjoyed a free trade environment with the US through the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and later the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The current U.S. government administration is imposing tariffs on a number of products crossing the border from Canada, making these goods more expensive for U.S. businesses to import them. In return, Canada has responded to the U.S. with retaliatory tariffs. In both cases, someone has to pay that extra cost – usually a business or wholesaler that is purchasing the good for resale, and in many cases, that extra cost is passed onto the consumer.
How could the tariffs impact your day-to-day life?
Tariffs can affect you in a few key ways, both directly and indirectly:
1. Higher prices on goods, leading to rising inflation
A lower Canadian dollar coupled with tariffs placed on certain US-imported goods, may require businesses to raise the price of their goods to offset their increased costs. Ultimately, this may mean that you, the consumer, end up paying more for the same products you purchased in the past.
2. Jobs are affected
Certain Canadian industries – such as steel, lumber, farming, oil and gas, and the auto sector – are being targeted by tariffs. As tariffs are implemented on these industries, companies may start to layoff employees. This may create a ripple effect on other sectors like retail and services.
3. The Canadian dollar gets weaker
The value of the loonie has already been falling against the U.S. dollar and other global currencies in anticipation of the tariffs. For Canadians, this means that the cost of imported goods is higher, as is the price of travel outside the country. (On the bright side, tourism in Canada will likely pick up as it becomes cheaper for visitors!)
4. Stock market fluctuations
Tariff-related news can shake investor confidence and create volatility in markets. This could lead to swings in investment and retirement portfolios, which can be unnerving.
So, what can you do now to manage your finances?
It’s natural to feel unsettled during periods of economic uncertainty, but there are a few small adjustments you can make to stay in control
1. Revisit your financial priorities
Take a fresh look at your monthly budget. Price increases on your necessities may put pressure on your budget. Reviewing the impact and re-calculating your inflows and outflows can help you feel more confident about your day-to-day financial needs. [Helpful Tool: Cash Flow calculator, NOMI Budget]
2. Build an emergency fund
If you haven’t started yet, think about putting some money aside as an emergency fund. You can start with saving a portion from every paycheque with the aim to get three to six months’ worth of living expenses. If your income changes, or an unexpected expense pops up, you have a buffer to help you manage your expenses. [Helpful Tool: NOMI Find & Save]
3. Simplify your debt
Carrying multiple debts? Consider consolidating them into a single, low-rate option. This move can save you money on interest and make managing your payments easier. Talk to your financial advisor to find the option that works best for you. [Helpful Tool: Debt Consolidation Calculator]
Worried market fluctuations are decreasing the value of your investments?
Market swings can be stressful – but they’re also a normal part of investing. Tariffs, geopolitical events or economic shifts can all cause market shake-ups.
The key is to stay focused on the big picture. Reacting emotionally and pulling your investments at the wrong time can potentially be more hurtful than helpful. Make sure your portfolio is diversified, so all your eggs aren’t in one basket. If you’re feeling unsure, talk to a financial planner who can help make sure your portfolio still lines up with your goals.
Bottom line: Focus on what you can control
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by headlines, but the best approach is to act calmly and focus on what’s within your control. Review your budget, stay invested if you can and lean on advice from people you trust – whether it’s a financial advisor, a friend or a family member. [Helpful Tool: Online appointment booking]
There will always be some uncertainty in the economy, but taking small, proactive steps can help you ride out the wave and stay confident in your financial future.
Additional resources
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Visit RBC Economics for timely economic updates and latest insight.
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[For small business owners] Five things you can do to prepare your business for U.S. tariffs
