The Loonie Hour

Heather Exner-Pirot, a Canadian energy expert specializing in oil and critical minerals, explores crucial topics impacting Canada's energy landscape. She discusses Ottawa's potential to unlock the energy sector, the implications of Bill C-5, and the challenges facing infrastructure projects like the Northern Gateway pipeline. The conversation also delves into the complexities of decarbonization, the evolution of Canada's oil industry, and the strategic importance of critical minerals for national defense, particularly in relation to NATO and China's role.

Canada's population growth has hit historic lows, raising eyebrows about its future workforce. Meanwhile, rental prices for two-bedroom apartments are dropping in major cities, even as housing sales show a rebound. Controversy brews over BC Ferries awarding contracts to Chinese firms, sparking debates on local job loss. The Fed's steady rate policy adds another layer of uncertainty. Plus, younger Canadians are shifting attitudes on homeownership, opting for renting over buying. An engaging mix of social dynamics and economic discussions awaits!

Join housing analyst Ben Rabidoux, known for his sharp insights and controversial past, as he dissects Canada's real estate turmoil. He reveals the fallout from a massive mortgage fraud scandal and discusses factors threatening the housing market, such as rising interest rates and declining buyer confidence. Ben explores the impact on construction jobs and the urgent need for policies that aid young people grappling with housing affordability. Buckle up for a data-driven thrill ride through Canada's changing economic landscape!

The Bank of Canada holds interest rates steady, sparking debates about economic indicators. Home sales in Vancouver plummet while inventory in the GTA surges, highlighting the housing market's unpredictability. A lighthearted discussion on quirky snacks adds flavor to the serious economic talk. The hosts tackle the struggles of the working class and the need for robust wealth creation to support a sustainable welfare state. They also explore trade deficits and the complexities of energy exports, offering insights into Canada's economic dynamics.

The Toronto condo market is experiencing a major slump, with pre-sale prices dropping to 1990s levels. Job losses are rising, alongside fears of increased credit losses as banks react to market fluctuations. The potential for interest rate cuts by the Bank of Canada is debated, while the impact of Trump tariffs enters the courtroom. The discussion extends to bad news for the construction sector, fiscal warnings about rising debt, and the delicate balance of government spending in the face of economic challenges.

Core inflation is on the rise in Canada, potentially complicating rate cut plans. As bond vigilantes seize control, the discussion turns to the challenges of increasing long-term interest rates worldwide. The Canada Pension Plan shifts away from its net zero target, influencing investment strategies. Politics heats up with phantom tariffs during election season, while Australia proposes taxing unrealized capital gains, raising concerns among investors and taxpayers. A lively exploration of global economic dynamics and their local effects makes for an engaging listen!

A surge of layoffs in the real estate sector sparks urgent discussions about market volatility and investment strategies. The decline in housing and rising inflation catch the spotlight, alongside intriguing sports banter. Political turbulence in Canada further complicates the landscape, especially concerning immigration and housing affordability. Meanwhile, the impact of tariffs on the automotive industry and the struggles in the electric vehicle market raise questions about government policies. Economics and labor market dynamics reveal pressing challenges for Canadian workers.

Canada's condo market faces significant price declines, sparking discussions on the need for central bank interventions like quantitative easing. The speakers delve into the effects of trade disputes on housing sentiment and economic forecasts. They humorously explore feng shui in real estate and reflect on a major investment meeting with insights on market dynamics. Political rhetoric and manipulation also take center stage, highlighting the interplay between government actions and economic challenges, particularly in the mortgage sector.

The recent liberal victory in Alberta is sparking separation anxiety, raising questions about the province's future. Political dynamics are shifting as amendments to the Citizen Initiative Act pave the way for potential independence referendums. Meanwhile, discussions on renewable energy reveal challenges faced during a major blackout in Spain and Portugal. With U.S. GDP contraction fueling concerns about economic stability, experts dissect trade agreements and the effects of tariff uncertainty. A groundbreaking travel app is also highlighted for its innovative approach to connectivity.

Quito Maggi, CEO of Mainstreet Research, sheds light on Canada’s surprising voter turnout with 7 million participating in advance polls. He discusses key battleground areas and the Conservatives' potential to defy expectations. The conversation delves into the polling methodologies that capture today’s diverse electorate, including the shifting dynamics among younger and South Asian voters. Maggi emphasizes the influence of emotional voting and the looming economic challenges that could shape the electoral landscape, highlighting the importance of informing and engaging voters.