Navigating Economic Uncertainty: What the Canada-U.S. Trade Dispute Means for Your Finances

At Kindred, we know uncertainty can be unsettling. As the Canada-U.S. trade dispute continues, many Canadians—especially farmers, other business owners, and investors—are wondering what it could mean for their financial future. Tariffs and trade disruptions can impact everything from supply chains to market prices, employment, and economic stability.

That’s why we want to emphasize: you are not alone. Whether it’s a global pandemic, an agricultural crisis like BSE/mad cow, or shifting economic policies, we’ve been through challenging times before. Through it all, our approach has remained the same: we stay close to our members, listen to their concerns, and provide thoughtful financial guidance that helps them move forward with confidence.

So, what does this trade dispute mean for you and what steps can you take to protect your financial well-being?

Investing in Uncertain Times

Market volatility often follows major economic or political events, and trade disputes are no exception. Investors may see fluctuations in equities, commodities, and currency markets as businesses react to new tariffs or shifting trade agreements. While it’s natural to feel uneasy, a few key principles can help:

• Stay the course – A well-diversified portfolio is designed to withstand short-term ups and downs. Market reactions to political events tend to be shorter-term in nature , so try to avoid making emotional decisions.
• Review your asset allocation – If you’re approaching retirement or have major expenses on the horizon, now may be a good time to check if your investments align with your goals and risk tolerance.
• Seek advice – Uncertainty is a reminder of the value of professional financial guidance. Our Wealth and Investment team can help you assess whether any adjustments are needed to keep your plan on track.

Farm and other Business Financial Planning

Trade disputes can have direct financial implications, from increased costs of imported goods to fluctuations in commodity prices. Here’s how you can stay prepared:

• Review cash flow and expenses – If costs increase, look for opportunities to adjust spending or build resilience into your financial plan.
• Explore financial buffers – Having access to a line of credit or an emergency fund can help bridge any unexpected gaps in revenue.
• Stay informed – Keep an eye on industry reports and trade developments. Connecting with producer and industry associations can offer valuable insights and advocacy.

Strengthening Your Personal Financial Plan

Even if you’re not directly impacted by trade uncertainty, it’s always a good time to check in on your personal finances:

• Reassess your budget – Rising costs in certain sectors could affect household expenses. Adjusting your budget to account for changes can help you stay on track.
• Review savings and debt strategies – If economic uncertainty persists, having a strong savings plan and manageable debt levels will provide stability.
• Take advantage of financial advice – A financial review can ensure your plan is aligned with your goals, no matter what’s happening in the broader economy.

Moments of economic uncertainty also create opportunities for fraudsters. Scammers may exploit the anxiety surrounding tariffs and trade by posing as financial advisors, trade experts, or government agencies, claiming they have urgent information or investment opportunities tied to the dispute. Others might pressure individuals into sharing personal banking details by falsely stating that new tariffs will affect taxes or account security.

If something seems urgent or too good to be true, take a step back. Always verify sources before making financial decisions, and if you have any doubts, connect with us—we’re here to help. At Kindred, we believe in banking that puts people first, ensuring you have the guidance and security you need to make informed and secure financial choices.

Moving Forward Together

While trade disputes and economic shifts may create uncertainty, they also provide an opportunity to reflect, plan, and stay connected. At Kindred, our core values of integrity, compassion, and stewardship are reflected in our commitment to walking with our members through every economic cycle, providing thoughtful financial advice rooted in community and our shared values. Whether you need investment guidance, business financing solutions, or simply reassurance about your financial plan, we’re here to help.

Meet with a member of our Wealth and Investment team today. We’ll help you Make Peace with Your Money®.