THREAD: canadian pride surge us businesses

CANADIAN PRIDE Surge: US Businesses Face Tough Times

01 April 2025 — The “Buy Canadian” movement is gaining steam, impacting U.S. companies looking to expand into Canada. Demeter Fragrances, a Pennsylvania perfume maker, stopped its expansion plans due to changing Canadian tastes. CEO Mark Crames noted a growing dislike for American products in Canada.

This trend isn’t just about perfumes but spans different sectors like drinks and citrus fruits from the U.S. Canadian businesses are thriving as local goods win over consumers. Jason McAllister of Irving Personal Care reported their Canadian-made diapers’ weekly shipments have quadrupled, showing this shift in buyer behavior.

The movement worries U.S.-based consumer companies that depended on the Canadian market for growth chances. Executives are now rethinking strategies as they face more difficulties entering the Canadian retail space amid rising protectionist feelings.

SINGAPORE’S Business Boom: Small Firms’ Confidence Soars to New Heights

24 March 2025 — Confidence among small businesses in Singapore has hit its highest point since 2019, says a survey by CPA Australia. The Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey shows that 62% of these businesses expect growth this year, marking the most optimism since 2018. This positive trend is expected to continue into 2025.

Greg Unsworth from CPA Australia notes that this confidence reflects not just business prospects but also a brighter economic environment. The survey highlights a big jump in technology use, with more firms embracing online and digital payments.

In 2024, an impressive 63% of small businesses reported earning over 10% of their revenue from online sales, up from just 36% in 2019. This shift shows a strong move towards digital transformation among Singapore’s small enterprises.

“Hudson’s Bay COLLAPSE: 9,000 Jobs in JEOPARDY”

17 March 2025 — Hudson’s Bay Company, Canada’s oldest business, plans to liquidate by June. Unable to secure financing, the company will shut down all operations. This decision puts over 9,000 jobs across Canada at risk.

The company’s financial troubles were clear in a March court filing. Hudson’s Bay delayed payments to landlords and vendors due to ongoing money problems. They initially hoped to stay open despite these issues.

Richard Baker bought Hudson’s Bay in 2008 for $1.1 billion, but it has steadily declined since then. The liquidation involves selling inventory and real estate while gradually laying off employees until mid-June.

SENSEX SURGE: Investors Cheer as Market Confidence Grows

10 March 2025 — The SENSEX index opened at 74,474.98 on March 9, 2025, marking a positive start to the trading day. This opening was slightly above its previous close of 74,332.58, signaling growing investor trust in the market’s stability.

As trading progressed, the index gained over 350 points, hitting a high of 74,713.17. This upward trend shows optimism among investors and suggests a strong economic outlook for India.

Growth in the SENSEX is often seen as an indicator of economic health and can positively influence global markets. Investors will be closely watching to see if this momentum continues in the coming days.

TRUDEAU vs TRUMP: Trade WAR Heats Up

06 March 2025 — Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has declared a trade war with the United States, led by President Donald Trump. Trudeau stressed Canada’s commitment to defending its economic interests against U.S. policies. This announcement signals a tense period ahead for North American trade relations.

Meanwhile, Mozambique faces unrest as police fired on an opposition march, raising concerns about the opposition leader’s safety. Several protesters were injured during the clash, escalating political tensions in the region. The situation remains volatile as authorities seek to restore order.

In other news, Cyclone Alfred threatens severe weather conditions later this week, prompting meteorologists to advise residents on safe shelter locations. Emergency services are preparing for potential destructive winds and storm surges as the cyclone approaches. Residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions for their safety.

On a different note, China reassures global markets by stating it has ample policy tools to boost economic growth amid recent challenges. This announcement aims to ease concerns over economic stability and show China’s readiness to address financial issues effectively in the coming months.

TRUMP’S BOLD Trade WAR: Tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China

05 March 2025 — President Donald Trump has reignited trade tensions by imposing new tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China. These include a 25% tax on imports from Canada and Mexico and a 10% tariff specifically targeting Canadian energy products. This move is expected to provoke swift retaliation from these nations.

Trump argues that trade disputes with these countries have harmed U.S. interests. China’s national legislature criticized the tariffs, stating they damage both economies and undermine mutually beneficial trade relations. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau questioned the rationale behind the tariffs, suggesting they aim to weaken Canada’s economy.

Financial markets reacted negatively to the announcement, raising concerns about inflation and uncertainty in international trade relations. Analysts warn this could lead to broader economic conflicts affecting both U.S. and global economies.

Mexico and Canada have yet to respond publicly but are expected to address the issue soon in press conferences. Lawmakers in Congress express concerns over potential fallout from such aggressive measures while international trade organizations closely monitor the situation for its global economic impact.

NEW DUTY Shock: Retail Prices to Skyrocket, Consumers Worried

04 March 2025 — Retailers are raising concerns about a looming price surge. A new 25% duty on exports from Mexico and Canada is set to increase costs. This change could lead to higher prices for shoppers almost immediately.

The duty affects a wide range of goods, impacting everyday items. Retailers warn this could disrupt supply chains and limit product availability. Shoppers should brace for potential price hikes at local stores.

Efforts to ease these effects are underway, but challenges remain tough. Businesses might need new strategies to handle rising costs. The economic impact of this policy change deserves close attention from policymakers and the public alike.

“TRUDEAU FIGHTS Back: Canadian Sovereignty Under Spotlight After Trump’s Comments”

04 March 2025 — Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visited the United Kingdom to discuss Canada’s sovereignty with King Charles. This came after former President Donald Trump hinted at annexing Canada as the “51st state.” Trudeau stressed the importance of Canadian independence, though he did not mention Trump directly.

Trudeau met with King Charles during a summit supporting Ukraine, also attended by President Volodymyr Zelensky. While the details of their conversation remain private, it’s believed Canadian sovereignty was a key topic.

Trump has suggested that Canada would benefit from joining the United States, but he hasn’t taken any formal steps toward annexation. Some Canadians are worried about these remarks, while others see them as jokes.

Trudeau faced political challenges after handling Trump’s tariff threats, leading to Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland’s resignation and his own decision to step down after ten years in office. A new Liberal Party leader will be elected in late March as Trudeau continues his duties until then.

SUPREMEX CFO Exit Sparks Strategic Shift

28 February 2025 — Supremex Inc., a key player in North America’s envelope and packaging market, announced the exit of its Chief Financial Officer, François Bolduc. Known for its strong industry presence, this leadership change hints at a possible strategic shift as Supremex faces future challenges.

To ensure stability during this transition, Supremex has Stewart Emerson working closely with the finance team. This plan aims to keep operations steady while searching for Bolduc’s replacement. The company is dedicated to finding a new CFO soon.

The hunt for a new CFO will start shortly, showing Supremex’s proactive stance on leadership changes. Investors and stakeholders are watching closely as the company advances with this process. Stay tuned for updates on how this may affect Supremex’s market strategies and performance.

INNOVATIVE BUSINESS Ideas Face Economic Hurdles In Today’S Market

23 February 2025 — The current market offers many opportunities for new business ideas. AI-powered financial coaching apps are gaining popularity, especially among women entrepreneurs. There’s also a growing demand for senior care services due to an aging population. Eco-friendly products, second-hand fashion, and zero-waste packaging are on the rise as consumers focus on sustainability.

Labour’s proposed tax hikes on businesses could threaten low-paid jobs in the UK. Employers face financial pressure from rising business rates and national insurance costs. These changes may cost businesses about £5 billion, potentially impacting low-income workers significantly.

In the U.S., stock markets saw a sharp decline with the Dow dropping nearly 750 points amid tariff concerns. Reports suggest U.S. business activity is nearing a stall with growth at a 17-month low. Businesses express widespread worries over federal policies affecting their operations and future optimism.

TRUMP’S Bold Move: Ending Canadian Trade Loophole Shakes Up Business

07 February 2025 — Canadian businesses are facing new challenges as the U.S. ends the “de minimis” rule for duty-free imports. This change, driven by former President Donald Trump’s executive order, will now impose tariffs on goods that were previously exempt due to their low value.

Sheena Russell, founder of Made with Local in Dartmouth, N.S., is worried about rising costs affecting her snack food business. With the executive order taking effect next month, companies are bracing for higher expenses and more administrative hurdles.

This development comes when businesses are already dealing with various economic pressures. The end of this loophole is expected to cause a demand shock as Canadian companies adjust to the new trade landscape.

TRUMP’S Trade Shake-UP: Canadian Businesses Brace for Impact

07 February 2025 — Canadian businesses face new challenges as former President Donald Trump’s executive order ends the DE MINIMIS exemption for shipments entering the U.S. from Canada. This change, along with looming tariffs on Canadian goods, worries business owners. The exemption previously allowed cost-effective shipping with minimal duties, easing cross-border trade.

Sheena Russell, founder of Made with Local in Dartmouth, N.S., voiced her concerns about these changes. Businesses now expect higher costs and administrative hurdles as they adapt to new tariff rules. Compliance complexities may force significant adjustments in operations and pricing strategies for many companies.

The impact is especially troubling for small to medium enterprises that may struggle with these added burdens. The broader implications could hit the Canadian economy hard, highlighting the need for strategic planning by affected businesses. Leaders are preparing to navigate this tough landscape while seeking ways to lessen potential negative effects on their operations and profits.

SURFWEAR SHOCK: Billabong and Quiksilver’s US Parent Company Hits Bankruptcy

07 February 2025 — The U.S. parent company of popular surfwear brands Billabong and Quiksilver has filed for bankruptcy, leading to the closure of over 100 retail locations. Despite this setback, the Australian operations of these iconic brands remain unaffected. This marks a big shift in the surfwear industry, impacting both employees and shoppers.

Canadian businesses face new challenges as a key cross-border exemption is set to end due to U.S.-imposed tariffs on Canadian goods. The removal will likely raise operational costs for many companies relying on easier product movement between countries. Businesses brace for an economic impact similar to previous tariff threats under former President Trump’s administration.

Stifel Nicolaus has reaffirmed its “Buy” rating for IBM, setting a price target of $290 based on strong AI advancements and cash flow growth projections. IBM continues to lead in AI innovation through consulting services and software development, positioning itself among top trending stocks in this sector. Investors remain hopeful about IBM’s future amid growing interest in artificial intelligence technologies.

Bristol-Myers Squibb saw more than a 2% drop in premarket trading after announcing 2025 guidance that fell short of analyst expectations. The pharmaceutical giant’s disappointing forecast has raised concerns among investors about its future performance.;

TRUMP’S Trade WAR Ignites Gold Rush And Market Turmoil

03 February 2025 — Gold prices have hit a record high as investors flock to safe assets amid President Donald Trump’s new tariffs. These measures target imports from Canada, China, and Mexico, sparking worries about inflation and economic growth. JP Morgan is optimistic about gold, urging investors to buy during this dip.

Wall Street braces for losses due to fears of an escalating trade war from Trump’s tariff actions. The 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico and 10% on China may cause “short-term” pain for Americans, according to Trump. Global markets watch cautiously as these policies unfold.

Oil prices are climbing in response to the tariffs, while metal and agricultural commodities face pressure downward. The financial landscape is shifting with markets adjusting to a potential prolonged trade conflict led by the U.S., causing the dollar to gain strength amid global trade uncertainty.

“INDIA’S Jan Vishwas Bill: A Bold Boost for Business”

03 February 2025 — The Indian government has rolled out the “Jan Vishwas Bill” to transform how businesses operate. This law aims to simplify rules and cut down on red tape. It hopes to make India more welcoming for investors, drawing in foreign money and helping local companies grow.

By tackling bureaucratic obstacles, the Bill is expected to drive economic growth. Supporters say it will make business dealings clearer and more efficient. This could make India a top choice for global companies wanting to expand their reach.

The Jan Vishwas Bill shows India’s active stance during global economic changes. It highlights the importance of a competitive business scene in the country. This move is a key step in India’s push to boost its economy through new laws.

UPS SHARES Plummet: Bold Move to Slash Amazon Business Stuns Investors

31 January 2025 — UPS shares dropped sharply after the company revealed plans to cut its business with Amazon in half. This move comes as UPS faces lower-than-expected revenue projections, signaling that a rise in parcel demand isn’t likely this year. To cope, UPS has been hiking prices and adding surcharges.

In a bid for bigger profits, UPS is focusing on growing its health-care segment, aiming for $20 billion in revenue by 2026. The company predicted $89 billion in revenue for 2025, which is below analysts’ expectations of $94.9 billion. In 2024, UPS reported revenues of $91.1 billion with Amazon making up 11.8% of that total.

The sudden cutback with Amazon caught many investors and analysts off guard. Daniel Imbro from Stephens Inc., noted the swift change as surprising news within industry circles. This strategic shift shows UPS’s dedication to prioritizing higher-margin ventures over volume-driven deals like the one with Amazon.

CANADA BRACES for Trump’S Trade Threats: Unity in the Face of Uncertainty

22 January 2025 — Canadian business leaders and government officials are coming together to tackle potential tariff threats from the United States under President Donald Trump. This united front aims to protect Canadian exports during ongoing trade negotiations. The meeting highlights the importance of solidarity as Canada faces these economic challenges.

Inflation rates in Canada have recently dipped below the two percent target, adding complexity to the situation. This drop raises questions about future interest rate changes, which could affect both businesses and consumers. Business Analyst Kris McCusker suggests that these developments might lead to interest rate adjustments soon.

The outcome of U.S.-Canada trade discussions could significantly change Canadian trade dynamics, making unity among stakeholders crucial. As talks progress, Canadian leaders remain focused on protecting their economic interests while preparing for any shifts in policy or market conditions prompted by U.S. actions.

TRUDEAU’S Shocking Exit: What It Means for Canada’S Future

07 January 2025 — Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation, marking a major shift in the nation’s political landscape. Trudeau cited the need for Canadians to have a “real choice” in future elections. His decision follows internal party struggles and numerous political challenges during his nearly decade-long tenure.

Trudeau’s departure aims to rejuvenate the Liberal Party and reconnect it with voters. The announcement comes just before a crucial parliamentary session, highlighting the urgency for new leadership. Trudeau believes fresh leadership is needed to tackle Canada’s evolving challenges more effectively.

This move aligns with a global trend where leaders face increased scrutiny and demands for accountability from constituents. During his time in office, Trudeau faced debates on climate change, economic policies, and social justice issues that defined his leadership era.

Speculation about potential successors within the Liberal Party has already begun as Canada braces for upcoming elections. Public reaction is mixed, with some disappointed by his exit while others see it as an opportunity for change in Canadian politics.

WALL STREET Surges: Oil Price Drop Sparks Investor Optimism

05 January 2025 — Wall Street is climbing today, driven by a 6% DROP in oil prices. Investors are gearing up for a crucial week of earnings reports from major tech firms.

Tech and energy stocks are leading the way, with analysts hopeful about tech giants’ futures. However, there is still caution about the overall economic outlook.

The fall in oil prices comes from oversupply worries and easing geopolitical tensions, affecting inflation rates and consumer spending that Wall Street closely monitors.

While U.S. markets rise, Asian markets face recession fears linked to U.S. economic performance, showing global interconnectedness and financial volatility.

UK-CANADA Trade Talks GRIND to a Halt: The Beef and Cheese Battle That’s Costing Billions

26 January 2024 — The UK government has unexpectedly put the brakes on post-Brexit trade talks with Canada. This sudden move follows a two-year stalemate over beef and cheese imports and exports, which began after Britain officially left the European Union.

Trade between these nations, valued at roughly 26 billion pounds ($33 billion) per year, has mostly persisted under the initial agreement made while Britain was still an EU member. However, Canadian negotiators are feeling the heat from their own beef industry and local cheesemakers. The former is pushing for access to the UK market for hormone-fed beef, while cheesemakers are raising alarms about tariff-free imports of British cheese.

The privilege of tariff-free British cheese exports came to a halt at the close of 2023 when a temporary agreement expired. This change led to a staggering 245% duty hike for British producers. Canada’s trade minister Mary Ng firmly stated that Canada “will never agree to a deal that isn’t beneficial for our workers, farmers and businesses.” Minette Batters, president of the National Farmers’ Union in England and Wales praised Britain’s resistance against hormone-fed beef imports.

Despite this hiccup in negotiations, the UK government remains open-minded about future discussions. However, any significant progress appears unlikely at present.