The article discusses several topics related to business, finance, and economics in Canada. The main points are:
- Canadian oil poised for record year: A BMO Capital Markets analyst expects Canadian oil production to reach a record 5.3 million barrels per day this year due to the impact of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion.
- Trade deficit widens: Statistics Canada reported that Canada’s trade deficit widened in January, with imports falling 3.8% and exports declining 1.7%.
- Economic growth remains soft: BMO economist Shelly Kaushik noted that both exports and imports declined, which suggests that economic growth will remain soft to start the year.
- Employment numbers expected: Statistics Canada is set to release employment numbers for February, with economists watching closely for signs of cracks in the jobs market.
- Innovation Minister’s speech: Innovation Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne will participate in an armchair discussion at the Calgary Chamber of Commerce about Canada’s place in the continental and global economy.
Additionally, the article mentions a few other topics:
- The affordable housing crisis and whether boats could be a solution
- Tips for navigating tax season from tax expert Jamie Golombek
- A request for readers to share their financial concerns or questions with Family Finance columnist Julie Cazzin
Overall, the article provides an update on various economic and business developments in Canada.
