Tariff volatility is freezing business investment and causing ripples in financial markets. The housing slump in major Canadian cities like Vancouver and Toronto adds to the economic anxiety. Meanwhile, Europe is witnessing shifts in defense budgets, with Germany planning significant increases. The podcast also humorously juxtaposes nostalgic dreams of car ownership with the harsh realities of British Columbia's budget deficit. Political tensions and trade wars further complicate consumer confidence and the economic landscape.

Canadian banks are grappling with rising loan loss provisions amid a wave of mortgage renewals. Overconfidence among bankers clashes with an uncertain market, reflecting unrealistic expectations on housing recovery. The bond market is showing signs of concern about weaker growth, while U.S. policy changes could impact Canada significantly. A major lawsuit against BlackRock raises questions about ESG investing and shareholder priorities, amid discussions about global trade dynamics and increasing volatility in the economic landscape.

Inflation is on the rise in Canada, driven by increasing energy and housing costs. The Bank of Canada faces tough choices between managing inflation and navigating a volatile housing market. Meanwhile, heated debates surround the potential development of high-speed rail, as entrepreneurs are reportedly fleeing the country. International relations take center stage, with discussions about military spending and the implications of a shifting global order. The plight of electric vehicles and skiing costs adds to the complex economic landscape.

The labor market in Canada may not be as robust as it seems, with underreported immigration outflows skewing employment data. Meanwhile, the real estate landscape is shifting dramatically, with banks offering 100% LTV mortgages on condos and ongoing price corrections in major cities. Concerns about US inflation and interest rates loom large, while Canada's new Fentanyl Czar tackles a pressing crisis. The political climate is also evolving, as support for the Liberal Party grows amid uncertainties.

Canada's top investigative reporter and fentanyl expert Sam Cooper joins the show. How bad is the fentanyl problem, what does Trump want to see, and who will become Canada's fentanyl Czar? Corruption runs deep as policy makers turn a blind eye to the deepening drug crisis.  Start an investment portfolio that's built to perform with Neighbourhood Holdings. Visit www.neighbourhoodholdings.com/looniehour to learn more Protect your online data and secure your privacy with Incogni!Check them out using our link: www.incogni.com/looniehourSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We are joined by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith to discuss trade negotiations, the currency, and our natural resources. The Bank of Canada cuts rates again. Policy makers preparing for helicopter money, and more global uncertainty.  Start an investment portfolio that's built to perform with Neighbourhood Holdings. Visit www.neighbourhoodholdings.com/looniehour to learn more! Get your travel data sorted with Saily and enjoy smooth, safe, and reliable internet access while you're away in over 150 countries! Check out Saily at saily.com/looniehour and use our promo code 'LOONIEHOUR' to get 15% off your first purchase!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Canada's CPI inflation slowed in December. Will inflation perk up again this year? The bond market says one more rate cut for the Bank of Canada. Policy makers are swinging to the right as public sentiment shifts. Scrapping the Carbon tax and Capital gains tax. The UK debt market barreling towards a crisis provides insights for other western countries on managing deficits. Start an investment portfolio that's built to perform with Neighbourhood Holdings. Visit www.neighbourhoodholdings.com/looniehour to learn more!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alberta's refusal to adopt proposed tariffs sparks debate surrounding Canadian oil. Toronto's condo market faces a significant downturn, with sales hitting 28-year lows amid rising property taxes. Speculation arises about Mark Carney's potential bid for prime minister. Discussions also cover the geopolitical intricacies of Canadian oil exports and the ramifications of potential tariffs on the economy. The impact of melting Arctic ice on shipping routes and internal trade barriers highlights the evolving landscape of energy dynamics and market stability.

Kate Harrison, Vice Chair at Summa Strategies and a political communications expert, discusses the recent resignation of Prime Minister Trudeau and its implications for Canada’s Parliament. The conversation dives into prorogation and its effects on governance, alongside the potential for a larger budget deficit. They also explore the political dynamics within the Liberal Party and the growing challenges in global debt markets. Finally, Kate highlights the link between a new leader's strategic choices and Canada's economic future.

The hosts dive into wild market predictions, forecasting tumbling bond yields and a crash of the Euro amidst rising house prices in Canada. They humorously tackle the struggles of reading goals while exploring the intricate connections between the U.S. and Canadian housing markets. The discussion highlights a potential recession in the US and a crisis in the Canadian housing sector, all while weaving in personal anecdotes. Expect a lively analysis of economic risks, wealth disparities, and the unpredictability of the financial landscape ahead!