It has been a busy start to 2026. Between the start of the new term and the shifting economic landscape, there has been plenty to discuss. I had the pleasure of joining the CBC Weekend Business Panel twice this month, along with sharing some thoughts with the Financial Post on the evolving banking sector.
Here is a summary of the main points from Cristián’s appearances in January.
CBC Weekend Business Panel – January 31st, 2026
I was back on the panel this past weekend to discuss the latest shifts in the Canadian economy. We covered the layoffs at GM, the new GST rebate structure, and the Bank of Canada’s latest move.
Topic 1: The GM Oshawa Shift Cut
Beyond the immediate tragedy for the 1,200 families affected by this cut, I see this as a strategic political maneuver by GM. They are leveraging reduced truck demand to cut costs while simultaneously offering a gesture to the US administration.
Topic 2: The GST Benefit
While more money in the pockets of lower-income families is undeniably positive, the structure of the accompanying support fund raises questions. It feels less like a productivity booster and more like a hidden subsidy. We need to be clear about what we are actually funding.
Topic 3: BoC Holds Rates
No surprises on the rate hold, but the Monetary Policy Report is the real story. The bank is effectively signaling that while the economy will be soft in 2026/27, it will be resilient. We are likely avoiding a crisis, even if growth remains moderate.
You can watch the full segment here: CBC Weekend Business Panel – Jan 31
CBC Weekend Business Panel – January 17th, 2026
This session was definitely one for the books—I was actually interrupted on live TV by a Minister of State broadcasting from Davos! It certainly kept things dynamic, as I had to react immediately to the comments coming out of the conference.
Once we got back on track, we covered a few key developments:
-
Davos & The Economy: We analyzed the latest statements from the World Economic Forum and what they signal for Canada’s fiscal year.
-
PM Carney’s Trip to China: We discussed the strategic implications of Prime Minister Carney’s visit and what it means for trade relations.
-
Housing & Inflation: The latest housing numbers are out, and we looked at how they are interacting with the broader cost of living.
-
The “McValue” Strategy: On a lighter (but economically relevant) note, we discussed McDonald’s decision to freeze coffee and McValue meal prices—a clear indicator of how corporations are trying to win back the inflation-weary consumer.
You can watch the full segment here: CBC Weekend Business Panel – Jan 17
In the News
I also spoke with the Financial Post earlier this month on two interesting developments in the Canadian banking landscape.
-
Neo Financial’s Growth: I shared my thoughts on Neo Bank’s capital raise and their move into CDOs. It is a bold step that signals the intensifying competition in the challenger bank space. Read more here.
-
ATB Expansion: I also commented on ATB Financial’s push for growth outside of Alberta. It is a significant pivot for the institution as they look for opportunities across the country. Read more here.
