US-Canada Trade War: The Trump administration escalated its tariff fight with Canada by banning a wide range of Canadian imports—especially dairy (including whey), most alcohol, and motorcycles—effective Sept. 29, while also expanding duties on other goods and moving to exclude Canadian products from major U.S. government procurement lists. Canadian Retaliation: Ottawa’s counter-tariffs on about $20B of U.S. goods took effect earlier this week, with Mark Carney arguing Canada can “pivot and prosper” but warning the shift will come with a cost. Procurement Pressure: Trump directed the GSA to remove Canadian-origin products from federal contract schedules unless “full and fair reciprocity” is restored, adding a new pressure point beyond consumer pricing. Business Fallout: Reports highlight cross-border supply-chain strain and mounting uncertainty for manufacturers and retailers on both sides. Alberta Secession Vote: A Business Council of Alberta push urges voters to stay in Canada in the Oct. 19 referendum, warning separation would create job and economic risk. Investment Climate: CPP Investments Insights Institute says global funds rank Canada low on investibility ahead of Carney’s investment summit, citing fragmented rules and policy reversals. Energy & Markets: Oil benchmarks rose as US-Iran hostilities flared, adding to inflation and risk concerns.