Markets wrapped up last week with mixed signals from both sides of the border. In Canada, the dollar softened against the U.S. dollar as investors digested higher producer prices and looked ahead to this week’s release of the Bank of Canada’s Summary of Deliberations. This report will offer insight into how policymakers weighed the recent decision to lower rates and what conditions they see as necessary before making further moves. Economists did however predict that Canada will dodge a potential recession this year with real GDP growth of 1.3% this year followed by 1.7% in 2026, according to Deloitte Canada Chief Economist Dawn Desjardins (Source: Yahoo Finance, September 29, 2025). Several factors have led to this assertion: the current exemption of US tariffs for exports that are under the current CUSMA (Canada US Mexico Agreement) and expected rate cuts from the Bank of Canada. Additionally, recent government efforts to boost trade between provinces and infrastructure projects will also boost economic growth.
South of the border, U.S. data showed that personal spending remained strong in August, while the Fed’s preferred measure of inflation, the PCE index, continued to show only gradual progress toward the 2% target. Consumer sentiment also improved slightly, suggesting households remain resilient despite higher borrowing costs.
The focus this week will be on U.S. employment data. Friday’s September jobs report is one of the most closely watched indicators for the Federal Reserve and could heavily influence expectations for the next interest rate decision. We will also see updates on U.S. manufacturing activity and factory orders, giving investors more context on the health of the economy heading into the final quarter of the year.
The US is at risk of a government shutdown as of October 1st if both Democrats and Republicans can not come to a resolution to fund a temporary stop-gap measure to keep the government functioning. We do not believe this will be of concern or long term, but we do have an article on what it could mean for stock market investors.
The stock markets can feel uncertain at times, especially when there’s more volatility than usual. We have a great article that reminds investors of why investing can still be extremely worthwhile. Check it out!
One of the large questions that hangs out there with the AI craze is that the spending for its development and infrastructure is at unprecedented levels- will it ever pay off? We have an insightful article that provides some clarity around the AI craze and its potential payoff.
The decades old struggle- should I get pet insurance or not? We have an article that can help! Have a read!
With Canada Post now on strike, traditional mail delivery will be disrupted. This is a good reminder of the value of our secure Client Portal, which ensures you always have direct access to your investment details, statements, and documents—without relying on the mail. If you’re not already set up, please reach out to Deb in our office at 226-647-4595 or [email protected], and she will be happy to assist you.
Finally, it is that time of year again- the KW Record Readers’ Choice Awards. We are honoured to share that Candace has once again been nominated as Best Financial Advisor, and ThinkWise Wealth has been nominated as Best Financial Planning Services in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. These nominations mean so much to us because they come from you—our valued clients and community. Voting is now open, and we would be truly grateful for your support. You can cast your vote here: : Readers’ Choice Voting Link
Thank you for continuing to trust us with your financial journey!
