According to a recent report by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Canada’s economy could see a nearly seven percent increase in real GDP, equivalent to $210 billion, by removing internal trade barriers between provinces and territories. These barriers act as a nine percent national tariff on average, with significantly higher rates in service sectors like healthcare and education. The report highlights that smaller provinces and northern territories are disproportionately affected by these costs, and that services, which constitute the majority of trade costs, were largely exempt from the recent agreement to drop trade barriers on goods. The IMF emphasizes that removing these barriers is a cost-effective way to boost productivity, strengthen economic resilience, and promote inclusive growth.
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The U.S., for the first time in 50 years, experienced negative net migration in 2025: Report, and that’s a pretty big deal, signaling a significant shift in the country’s demographic landscape. The report indicates that in 2025, more people left the U.S. or didn’t arrive compared to those who did, resulting in a negative net migration. The last time this happened was half a century ago, so it’s not something we’ve seen in a long time.
This trend is concerning because the report suggests that this decline could lead to weaker economic growth. With fewer people entering the country, the workforce shrinks, and that can have knock-on effects, impacting employment, gross domestic product (GDP), and consumer spending.… Continue reading
India has recently surpassed Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy, with a GDP of approximately $4.18 trillion. The nation’s economic review projects India to potentially reach $7.3 trillion by 2030, possibly becoming the third-largest economy in the world within the next three years. Growth, fueled by strong domestic demand, is expected to continue with a revised growth forecast of 7.3% for the 2025–26 financial year. Although India faces challenges like a wide GDP per capita gap and the need to create more jobs for its young population, the government remains optimistic about sustained expansion, with plans to reach a high middle-income status by 2047.
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Xi Warns Officials Against Chasing ‘Reckless’ Expansion in GDP is a fascinating turn of events, especially considering the context of China’s economic trajectory. It’s almost as if the very person who likely set those GDP targets is now signaling a shift in priorities. The implication is clear: the relentless pursuit of growth at all costs might be causing more harm than good. It’s a move that suggests a focus on quality over sheer quantity, a sentiment that resonates with the idea of long-term sustainable development rather than short-term gains. The warning also seems to implicitly acknowledge that perhaps some of the reported GDP figures might be, shall we say, a bit embellished.… Continue reading
In October, the Canadian economy added a surprising 67,000 jobs, causing the unemployment rate to fall to 6.9%. While much of the job growth was in part-time positions, there were notable gains in wholesale and retail trade. Though the jobless rate decreased, it remained elevated and concentrated in specific sectors, signaling a labor market still recovering. Economists predict that the Bank of Canada will likely pause on rate cuts in December due to this data, and continued slow growth in employment overall.
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Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne unveiled a federal budget featuring significant investments in infrastructure, housing, and the military, alongside public service cuts to address economic challenges. The budget projects a deficit of approximately $78 billion for the 2025-26 fiscal year, with $141 billion in new spending over five years, partially offset by $51.2 billion in cuts. Key highlights include investments in high-speed rail, ports, and critical minerals, as well as a reduction in immigration, and a potential end to the emissions cap. The government aims to foster business development through tax incentives and has allocated substantial funds for the Canadian Armed Forces.
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The Canadian Senate recently passed the One Canadian Economy Act, designed to expedite “nation-building” projects and stimulate economic growth. This legislation allows the cabinet to streamline approvals for projects deemed beneficial to the economy, potentially including energy infrastructure and resource extraction. While proponents claim the act addresses trade tensions with the United States and removes internal trade barriers, it has drawn criticism from Indigenous groups and environmental activists, who fear it will undermine consultation processes and potentially silence opposition to projects. The act mandates government consultation with Indigenous peoples before fast-tracking projects, yet some Indigenous leaders remain concerned about the potential impact on their rights.
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Canada’s real GDP fell 0.2 per cent in February, primarily due to a 0.6 per cent decline in goods-producing industries, particularly mining and oil and gas extraction. While service-producing industries also contracted slightly, the manufacturing and finance sectors showed growth. However, early March data suggests a 0.1 per cent GDP increase, pointing towards a moderate 1.5 per cent annualized growth rate for the first quarter. Experts attribute February’s decline largely to severe winter weather, but anticipate potential economic headwinds from the ongoing US-China trade war in the second quarter.
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California is now the fourth largest economy in the world. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the state’s diverse and dynamic economy, fueled by innovation, technology, and a robust agricultural sector. It’s a compelling narrative, particularly considering the consistent narrative from some quarters that the state is in decline.
California’s economic strength isn’t just a matter of sheer size; it’s a reflection of forward-thinking policies. The state’s ambitious renewable energy goals, initially met with resistance, have not only been achieved years ahead of schedule but have demonstrably benefited the state. The fact that California’s grid ran entirely on renewable energy for 98 days last year, without impacting costs or causing blackouts, serves as a powerful example.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood