

The Loonie Hour
Steve Saretsky
The Loonie Hour is a Canadian based macro economic podcast covering newsworthy events across the globe and how they will impact Canadians.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 16, 2025 • 1h 12min
Job Layoffs Mounting in the Real Estate Sector
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.

May 9, 2025 • 59min
Canadian Banks Forecast Steep Declines in the Condo Market
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.

9 snips
May 2, 2025 • 60min
Liberal Victory Sparks Alberta Separation Anxiety
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.

10 snips
Apr 25, 2025 • 1h 17min
Canadians Head to the Polls in Record Numbers- w/guest Mainstreet Research
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.

60 snips
Apr 18, 2025 • 1h 28min
Building Canada Into an Energy Superpower- w/ guest Doomberg
Join Doomberg, a prominent voice in the energy sector and writer for the Doomberg energy sub stack, as he dives into Canada's ambition to become a global energy superpower. They discuss the implications of the recent inflation data and interest rate decisions on the economy. With the political landscape evolving, Doomberg examines the influence of figures like Mark Carney on energy policies. The conversation highlights the need for reliable energy solutions while addressing the complexities of transitioning to renewables in Canada's changing energy dialogue.

11 snips
Apr 11, 2025 • 1h 28min
Financial Markets in Turmoil Ahead of Canadian Elections
John Manley, former Deputy Prime Minister of Canada, and David Herle, a seasoned political strategist, dive into the intricate dynamics of the upcoming Canadian elections. They discuss shifting voter sentiments, the impact of immigration policies, and how the Liberal party's strategy is adapting to economic dissatisfaction among youth. The conversation also touches on the challenges facing Canada’s energy future amid regulatory pressures and the importance of navigating divisive politics for a unified national identity.

9 snips
Apr 4, 2025 • 1h 24min
The Tariff War is Escalating Towards a New Monetary System
The global tariff war escalates, prompting discussions on its impact on the financial system and market dynamics. With stock prices falling and bond yields rising, experts analyze shifting consumer confidence in the Canadian housing market amid rising interest rates. The effectiveness of government housing initiatives comes under scrutiny, alongside a humorous take on gas price drops linked to carbon tax debates. As trade relationships evolve, the potential for economic restructuring reminiscent of Bretton Woods is examined, highlighting the need for adaptive investment strategies.

14 snips
Mar 28, 2025 • 1h 15min
Canadian Business Confidence Plunges to Decade Lows
Small businesses in Canada are feeling unprecedented gloom, hurt by tariffs and rising unemployment. The conversation turns serious as hosts explore the impact of immigration on housing prices and the struggles of students facing high living costs. Amid amusing travel stories, they highlight the troubling decline in air travel bookings and discuss potential recession implications. The Canadian auto industry also faces challenges with tariffs as it navigates competition from China, all while public confidence continues to wane.

23 snips
Mar 21, 2025 • 1h 26min
The Changing World Order is Here- w/ guest Brent Johnson
Brent Johnson, founder of Santiago Capital and co-host of Macro Alchemist, dives into the shifting global macroeconomic landscape. He discusses how Trump's policies have affected world order and the unique dynamics of Canada-U.S. relations during his era. As inflation rises and Canadian consumer confidence plummets, Brent analyzes the tightening of credit by banks and its implications. He highlights the importance of rational investment strategies in today’s uncertain environment, providing insights into the future of financial markets.

18 snips
Mar 14, 2025 • 1h 6min
Bank of Canada Abandons Inflation Mandate
The Bank of Canada has made surprising cuts to interest rates amid a looming crisis, raising concerns about future inflation. Mark Carney is discussed as a potential Prime Minister, while the carbon tax sparks debate over job losses in oil and gas. Global economic connections are explored, revealing the impact of U.S. tariffs on Canada and questioning the central bank's strategies. The hosts delve into skepticism over government narratives affecting housing and investments, all while navigational trade dilemmas and the need for regulatory reforms are highlighted.