Trump Eyes Lower Fentanyl Tariffs Ahead of Key Meeting with Xi Jinping

Trump Indicates a Cut in Tariffs on Fentanyl Imports from China Before Meeting with Xi Jinping

October 28, 2025 – U.S. President Donald Trump said he expects to cut tariffs on fentanyl imports from China. He set this idea before he met Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea. This move shows a strong step in U.S.-China trade and security talks.

Talks on Fentanyl and Farm Issues

On Air Force One, Trump spoke to reporters. He stressed that fentanyl entering the U.S. and matters of American farmers would be the main topics in his Thursday meeting with Xi. Many in the U.S. worry over the rise of fentanyl and its parts coming from China.

Trump said:

"We are going to discuss fentanyl flows into the U.S. and our farmers. These will be important parts of the conversation."

Here, he shows a strategy to fight drug health problems and to back the farming community. This step may help fix ties between the two nations.

Tariff Cut as Part of a Trade Deal

A report in the Wall Street Journal said that the U.S. might cut the present 20% tariffs on fentanyl-linked Chinese exports by 50%. In return, China would act to stop chemicals used in making fentanyl from leaving the country.

When asked about a one-year break in China’s controls on rare earth exports to gain more U.S. trade moves, Trump said:

"We haven’t talked about the timing yet but we are gonna work out something."

This answer shows that talks are still in progress about trade limits and supply issues that matter to both sides.

Improving U.S.-China Ties

Trump said his relations with China are “very good” and he looked forward to his meeting with Xi Jinping:

"We are going to have a great meeting with China’s Xi."

The meeting is set during a regional summit in South Korea. It may change the ties between the U.S. and China during a time of global change in business and politics.

Key Points Recap:

  • President Trump expects to cut tariffs on fentanyl-linked Chinese imports.
  • Talks with Xi Jinping will focus on fentanyl flows and support for U.S. farmers.
  • The potential tariff cuts depend on China stopping chemical exports used for fentanyl.
  • Rare earth export controls continue to be a subject of talks.
  • Trump has a positive view of U.S.-China ties before the meeting.

This story is still growing. Stay tuned for more news about the U.S.-China talks and the effect on trade and global work.

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Navigating Uncertainty: Insights on the Federal Reserve’s Future Interest Rate Decisions

What’s the Outlook for the Federal Reserve’s Interest-rate Policy?

By Dennis Shen, Chair, Macroeconomic Council, Scope Group
Published: October 28, 2025

At the global financial scene, all eyes watch the Fed move next. Expectations rise for a careful easing of U.S. interest rates. Dennis Shen, chair of Scope Group’s Macroeconomic Council, breaks down the Fed’s decision and sorts today’s monetary forces.

Anticipated Rate Cut as Market Data Softens

Scope Ratings sees the Fed cut rates by 25 basis points at Wednesday’s meeting. Many view the move as a "risk control" step. Recent labor data weakens, and core CPI numbers fall in September.

U.S. financial futures nearly fix the 25-point drop. Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s comments match this view. The following press conference will soon give markets more clues.

The Road Ahead: More Cuts or a Hold?

A further 25-point cut by December sits in many minds, yet the end result is not fixed. If inflation climbs or if the soft labor reading lasts little, some Fed voices may prefer a hold after the next move.

Still, with softer voices holding sway at the Fed, stopping its tightening steps soon comes to mind.

A Divided Institution under Political Pressure

The Fed splits over the inflation target and how to act. Some FOMC members treat the goal as if it now sits at 3% instead of 2%. Their view shows hints from political calls and pressure from the White House for steeper cuts.

Other decision-makers point out inflation has stayed above 2% for more than four years. They warn that moving too fast may shake market trust and risk price stability over time.

Rising U.S. trade tariffs and ongoing price pressures add weight to a careful path. Some worry that extra political input might blunt the Fed’s true role and unsettle market trust in its fight against rising prices.

Economic Strength and Data Limits

The U.S. economy shows strong fight and resolve, yet questions grow about soft labor numbers. A current government shutdown stops the usual release of key numbers. This gap makes choice harder for the Fed.

In such a murky time, Fed voices seem set to stick to their September path until more facts come in. The central bank will use what is known to guide its next step.

US Inflation Remains High

Data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics and forecasts at Scope tell us that everyday consumer inflation stays well above the Fed’s 2% mark. This clear sign adds to the policy challenge.

Conclusion

The Fed stands at a point where data call for more ease, while risks of extra inflation and political input hang in the balance. The next rate drop seems near, but the path ahead rests on new facts, inflation trends, and shifting politics.

Investors and market watchers will seek signs in the Fed’s remarks and at the press meet to see if more ease comes or if caution wins.

About the Author:
Dennis Y. Shen is the Chair of the Macroeconomic Council and Lead Global Economist at Scope Ratings, based in Berlin, Germany. The Macroeconomic Council joins credit views from sovereign, bank, corporate, and structured finance areas.

For ongoing news on economic data and market forecasts, see FXEmpire’s economic calendar and market analysis sections.

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Job Growth Surge: Private Sector Adds 15,000 Jobs Weekly as ADP Data Shows Economic Resilience

Private Sector Jobs Grow as New Roles Reach Almost 15,000 Each Week, ADP Quick Data Shows

October 28, 2025 – ADP, a well-known payroll company, shares data that shows the private sector added around 14,250 jobs each week for the past month. This rise comes after job losses in September and gives a brighter view of current work trends.

Key Points from ADP’s Quick Report

• In the last four weeks, companies made almost 15,000 new jobs each week.
• ADP now tracks a four-week average of week-to-week job changes. The report uses data that ends on October 11.
• This new report helps show work trends in near real time. It comes at a time when a government shutdown made official data hard to get.

The New ADP Job Count

ADP now shows week-to-week job changes averaged over four weeks. This tool helps investors, analysts, and policy experts see simple hints of job trends. The old National Employment Report (NER) does the work in these ways:

  • It counts job numbers once a month during the week that includes the 12th.
  • It gives details for each work sector.
  • It is shared once a month, just before the government release for payroll numbers.

The new ADP count gives a steady, rolling look at the market. It works as an early sign of job changes while the NER gives a fuller picture when it is released.

What the Data Means

The report shows that the weekly gain of 14,250 jobs adds up to about 55,000 jobs in a month. This strong gain stands in contrast to the NER report that showed a net loss of about 32,000 jobs in September.

Nela Richardson, ADP’s chief economist, said,
"ADP’s quick job data, shared each week, gives us a clear view of the work market now. It shows both new job creation and job loss with much detail."

Note that these early numbers can change when the full NER data for October comes out.

Looking Ahead

ADP now shares its weekly reports at this busy time for the U.S. economy. At a moment when many need the latest work data amid changes in policy and economy, the information may help the market and guide financial choices until government data goes back to its normal schedule.

For readers who follow work market updates, ADP will keep posting these four-week average reports every Tuesday. This steady view helps track changes in private sector employment.

Stay tuned as more data and month-end updates come in.

Source: ADP quick job data as reported by CNBC

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Resilient Yet Rattled: WTO Insights on Global Trade’s Tough Battle Against Tariffs

WTO Chief Affirms Resilience of Global Trade Amidst U.S. Tariff Turmoil

October 28, 2025 — U.S. tariffs hit many imported goods, and the trade system holds strong. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the WTO head, told CNBC in Saudi Arabia that the trade system is "battered and bruised but still standing." Here, each word works close to its partner so the meaning stays clear.

Unprecedented Disruptions but a System Holding Strong

The United States, led by President Donald Trump, acts alone. His move causes what Okonjo-Iweala calls the "greatest disruption of global trade in 80 years." Since early 2025, the U.S. set tariffs on many goods from many lands. These actions raise tension and doubt in global markets, yet the system does not collapse.
"Many think trade is broken because of these U.S. tariffs," she notes. "That view is not right."

The Focus on Trump-Xi Meeting

U.S. President Donald Trump tours Asia. He signs trade deals and pacts as he goes. On Thursday, he will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping. Trump hopes to reach a deal to lower duties and counter-tariffs.
Okonjo-Iweala hopes the meeting goes well. She notes that easing trade fights helps all nations.

  • Stopping trade splits and fights between the U.S. and China is needed.
  • A split into two trade groups would hurt world prosperity.
  • Countries with fewer resources would suffer the most.

WTO’s Mixed Forecast for Global Trade

The WTO now sees global trade growing by 2.4% in 2025 instead of 0.9% as it thought in August. In contrast, the view for 2026 is weak at 0.5%, down from 1.8% before.
The WTO points to two ideas for this drop:

  • A cooling world economy
  • The effect of high tariffs slowing trade

Factors Fueling Trade Growth in Early 2025

Trade grew by 4.9% in the first half of 2025. U.S. buyers made extra purchases before more tariffs came in. Good economic signals—such as low inflation, sound government budgets, and strong job markets—helped raise incomes and spending. Fast growth in new markets also helped trade move up.

AI Grows in Global Trade

A new force in trade is the rise of artificial intelligence. AI goods include chips, servers, and telecom gear. AI trade made up nearly half of the growth in the first half of the year and climbed 20% from 2024.
Global contest for AI runs as follows:

  • The United States contributed about one-fifth of the AI trade growth.
  • Asia drove nearly two-thirds of the increase in AI trade.

Conclusion

Global trade faces many hurdles from disputes and tariffs. Still, the WTO chief holds a cautious hope. The system has survived heavy shocks. It may grow stronger if the U.S. and China calm their tensions and work together on trade. Steps to ease trade fights help not only the nations in question but also many others, especially those with smaller economies.

For further updates on global trade developments and market insights, stay tuned to CNBC.

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Red Ink Rising: How Exploding Government Debt Could Trigger the Next Financial Crisis

How Soaring Government Debt Could Play a Starring Role in the Next Great Financial Crisis

By Barbara Shecter | Published Oct 27, 2025

Governments around the world carry heavy debt. They face rising worry about what this debt may cause. The United States, which drives the global economy, sits in a risky spot. If the U.S. runs into fiscal trouble, markets everywhere may fall hard.

The Increasing Burden of Sovereign Debt

Sovereign debt climbs fast in recent years. Pandemic costs, economic boosts, and budget gaps push the debt higher. The U.S. holds about US$37 trillion in debt. It runs a yearly deficit near US$1.8 trillion – about six percent of its GDP. Even as people like Elon Musk plead for less spending, the deficit barely slows down.

Many countries grow their debt too. Yet the United States matters more because it issues U.S. Treasury securities. These bonds support global finance. Pension funds, banks, and foreign governments all hold large amounts of them.

Troubling Signs from the Treasury Market

This year, market changes signaled trouble. After President Donald Trump set steep tariffs on over 80 countries – a day some called "Liberation Day" – investors ran from unstable stocks. They moved into U.S. Treasury bonds, and yields dropped. Soon, yields on 10-year bonds jumped from 3.9% to 4.5%. Thirty-year yields went past 5%.

When yields rise, bond prices drop. This fall shows that investors worry about U.S. debt. Mark Manger from the University of Toronto’s Munk School pointed out that this move looks like a warning seen in risky markets like Argentina or Nigeria. He said, "This is the part where observers start to freak out… because it’s not supposed to be like this."

Risks of a U.S. Debt Crisis

A drop in trust for U.S. Treasuries has huge risks. Investors see U.S. debt as the benchmark safe asset. A crisis here can shake global markets. It may lower asset prices, unsettle banks, and push economies into recession.

Research from the Brookings Institution explains that a crisis need not wait for a default. The fear of unsustainable debt may trigger panic and capital flight.

Juan Carlos Hatchondo from Western University highlights the risk. U.S. Treasuries often act as collateral in repo deals. If their value falls sharply, daily banking and market trades can break down. Many foreign governments store reserves in U.S. debt. A drop in value may weaken their finances and spread instability today.

Political Challenges Compound the Problem

The debt issue worsens with U.S. political fights. Sharp political divides make sound fiscal plans hard. Sudden policy shifts, like those seen after the tariff move, hurt market trust. This doubt stops leaders from taking clear steps to fix the debt. In the near term, any plan to manage the swelling debt seems hard to reach.

Looking Ahead

With the November 4 Federal Budget near, Canada and other nations face their own debt matters in a tougher world. Yet the U.S.—with its large role in finance—stays the main focus.

Investors, policymakers, and economists keep a close watch. High government debt, tense political fights, and shaky markets mix into a storm. This storm might lead to the next great financial crisis, one with global consequences.

For continuous coverage of sovereign debt and deficits, stay tuned to FinancialPost.com.

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Five Essential Insights from the Latest Consumer Price Index Report: Navigating Inflation Trends and Federal Reserve Implications

Five Key Takeaways from Friday’s Consumer Price Index Report

On Friday the Bureau of Labor Statistics released its long-waited Consumer Price Index report. A government shutdown delayed the report by a week and a half. The CPI is a key economic indicator. It tracks changes in the prices consumers pay for goods and services. The report also sets the benchmark for adjusting Social Security cost of living allowances.

Here are the five most important insights from the latest CPI data:

1. Inflation Remains Above Target but Shows Signs of Moderation

  • The headline inflation rate went up by 0.3% this month and 3.0% this year. The numbers are a bit lower than many forecasts.
  • Core inflation, which leaves out the unstable food and energy sectors, increased 0.2% monthly and 3.0% yearly.
  • Inflation still exceeds the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. The data hints that the pressure on prices is not growing fast and may be easing in key areas.

2. Markets Anticipate Federal Reserve Rate Cuts

  • Market signals suggest that the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates at its meeting next week.
  • A second cut in December also appears likely. The FedWatch tool shows only a 4% chance that the Fed will not lower rates twice before year-end.
  • This view shows more trust that slower inflation can allow the Fed to reduce rates.

3. Tariffs and Immigration Effects Are Modest but Noticeable

  • Some products affected by tariffs and immigration show mixed price movements:
    • Price for clothing increased by 0.7%, and sporting goods prices rose by 1.0%.
    • Smartphone prices dropped by 2.2%, marking a 14.9% decline compared to a year ago.
    • Gardening and lawn care services saw a yearly price jump of 13.9%.
  • The impact from tariffs appears as a short rise in prices rather than an ongoing inflation trend.

4. Shelter Costs Show Some Relief

  • Shelter costs, which cover about one-third of consumer spending, went up by 0.2% this month and 3.6% over the year.
  • The measure for owners’ equivalent rent rose by just 0.1%, the smallest rise since November 2020.
  • This small increase in shelter costs may ease the overall pressure on inflation.

5. Government Shutdown Impact on Reporting

  • The shutdown halted all other federal economic data efforts. The CPI report was completed mainly because it affects Social Security adjustments.
  • As a result, this may be the last official inflation report until the shutdown ends and normal reporting picks up again.

Expert Perspectives on the Report

Rick Rieder, BlackRock’s Head of Fixed Income and a possible future Fed Chair, said:
"In aggregate, today’s inflation readings look good, even if they are still above the Federal Reserve’s 2% goal. We think the overall trend in inflation can slow down over the next year, which could allow the Fed to tilt towards cutting rates."

Joseph Brusuelas, Chief Economist at RSK, noted:
"Large rises in food, meat, housing, and utility costs hit middle-class and lower-income households hard. They face slow wage growth and have a hard time adjusting to these higher living costs."

Krishna Guha, Head of Global Policy and Central Bank Strategy at Evercore ISM, remarked:
"The price effects from tariffs seem small and point to a one-time price rise rather than a lasting inflation issue."

Conclusion

The CPI report shows a guardedly positive view on inflation. Prices for goods and services are rising slowly while some important costs grow less quickly. Financial markets now expect Fed rate cuts, signaling hopes that inflation will ease further. Yet many lower-income households still feel the strain of rising food and housing costs.

As the government shutdown puts a hold on other economic data, investors and officials will watch closely for clear signs on the future of inflation and policy steps.

Data Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; Analysis and quotes from CNBC and financial experts.

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U.S. Inflation Hits 3.0% in September: What It Means for Fed Rate Hikes and Your Investments

U.S. Inflation Drops to 3.0% in September, Casting Doubt on More Fed Rate Hikes

By James Hyerczyk | Published: October 24, 2025, 12:37 GMT

The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows U.S. inflation slowing in September. New numbers point to smaller rises in prices. This soft trend may shift views on Fed interest rate moves soon.

Inflation Growth Slows in September

The report shows the CPI grew by 0.3% in September. This is a bit less than the 0.4% rise seen in August. Annual inflation sits at 3.0%, which falls slightly from last month and misses most experts’ estimates.

The core CPI, which cuts out food and energy, rose by just 0.2% during the month. This is the smallest gain since June. The steady ease in numbers hints that price pressures may fall.

Energy Prices Push Up Headline Inflation

Energy prices helped raise the overall inflation rate. Gasoline climbed 4.1% compared to August. This push made the energy index rise by 1.5%. Yet, gasoline still stays 0.5% lower than a year ago. In contrast, energy services got 0.7% cheaper. Piped gas prices dropped by 1.2% and helped bring down some of the energy cost rises. Market watchers note that energy prices jump around and may sway upcoming inflation numbers.

Signs of Cooling in Main Areas

Core inflation’s 0.2% rise comes after two months of 0.3% gains. Numbers in housing and service areas now show slower gains. Shelter costs rose only 0.2%, and owners’ equivalent rent went up by 0.1%—the smallest rise since early 2021. Prices for motor vehicle insurance and used cars fell by 0.4%. Some areas, like medical care services, did see a 0.2% rise after a drop in the past month.

Food Inflation Remains Stable but High

Food prices crept up by 0.2% in September. This climb is lower than the 0.5% jump seen in August. The food-at-home index rose 0.3% as prices for nonalcoholic drinks and cereals went up. Dairy prices dropped 0.5%, which cut some of the increases, while eating out costs edged up by 0.1%. Over the last 12 months, food inflation holds at 3.1%, mainly driven by meat and drink prices.

Inflation Above Fed’s Target but on a Downward Path

The annual core inflation rate stays at 3.0%, well above the Fed’s 2% goal. This steady level means officials must keep a close eye on prices. The slower increase in monthly numbers may bring some relief to policy makers, who watch for signs of change.

The Federal Reserve will see the report as a positive sign, but not as a clear green light for a quick policy shift. Inflation pressure in areas like shelter and services remains.

Market Implications: Fed Rate Hike Fears Drop

Market players now see fewer signs for more Fed rate hikes after the softer-than-expected CPI numbers. This change puts pressure on the U.S. dollar in the short term, as traders expect rates to stay steady a while. Treasury yields may also see little rise as these views adjust.

Investors will watch future inflation reports and Fed talks to mark the course of the U.S. economy and monetary policy.

About the Author

James Hyerczyk is a seasoned technical analyst and educator based in the U.S. He has more than 40 years of experience in market analysis and trading. He studies chart patterns and price moves and has written two books on technical analysis. He also has a long history with futures and stock markets.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Readers should do their own research or seek a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.

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September CPI Report Reveals Surprising Drop in Inflation to 3%: What It Means for the Fed and Your Wallet

September 2025 CPI Inflation Rate Hits 3%, Lower Than Expected

On October 24, 2025, the BLS shared a report. The report shows the CPI rate for September at 3.0%. It is a bit higher than in August but still below what some had thought. This report gives clear insight into U.S. inflation during a government shutdown when most other data stops.

Key Inflation Figures

• Monthly Increase: CPI went up by 0.3% in September, not 0.4% as predicted.
• Annual Inflation: The yearly rate stayed at 3.0%, a shade below the forecast of 3.1%.
• Core CPI: When we leave out food and energy, core CPI grew by 0.2% for the month and also showed a 3.0% annual rate, again a little under the expected 3.1%.

The core CPI monthly gain of 0.2% is lower than the 0.3% rises in July and August, which hints at a slow down in core inflation.

Components Driving Inflation

• Energy Prices: Gasoline costs jumped by 4.1% in September. Even as this month brought a surge, gas prices fell by 0.5% over the year.
• Food Prices: Food costs edged up 0.2% month by month, with an annual rise of 3.1%. Meat, poultry, fish, and eggs jumped 5.2% over the year. Nonalcoholic beverages, likewise, climbed 5.3%.
• Shelter Costs: This part makes up about one third of the CPI. Shelter costs grew by 0.2% in September and 3.6% over the year.
• Other Services & Goods: Service prices (other than shelter) rose by 0.2%, new vehicle prices increased by 0.8%, and used car and truck prices dropped by 0.4%.

Market Reactions and Economic Implications

Following the release, stock futures moved up while Treasury yields went lower. Experts see the lower inflation as a sign that the Fed may cut interest rates soon.

John Kerschner, head of securitized products at Janus Henderson, said the report feels "like an oasis slaking the thirst of a weary desert traveler" amid a lack of government data. He added that the report “shows the Fed will cut rates at next week’s meeting.”

The Role of Tariffs and Economic Outlook

Some worry about tariffs set by the previous administration, but they have not raised overall inflation much so far. James Knightley, chief international economist at ING, noted that U.S. companies now source from countries with lower tariffs. This shift cuts the anticipated price rise from tariffs.

He did warn that tariff-related price bumps might grow. However, he sees these as a one-time jump rather than a long-lasting trend.

Last Official Data Before the Fed Decision

This CPI report is the only new economic data during the federal government shutdown that began on October 1, 2025. The data came out because the Social Security Administration needs the CPI to set cost-of-living payments.

The Fed aims for a 2% inflation rate and sees more than that now. The new reading will shape their interest rate choices next week. Markets now expect a 0.25% cut from the 4.00%–4.25% range with more softening in December.

Conclusion

The September CPI shows that inflation is present but not as strong as some thought. This softer trend gives room to cut rates and help the economy, even as the job market weakens and issues with the budget persist.

Investors and policymakers now await new reports. For now, the 3% inflation rate provides a hopeful sign of more stable prices in the U.S. economy.

For ongoing updates on the inflation report and its impact for markets and monetary policy, stay tuned to our economic coverage.

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Anticipation Builds for Friday’s Crucial Inflation Report: What Analysts Are Predicting

Everyone is Waiting for Friday’s Big Inflation Report: Here’s What to Expect

Thursday, October 23, 2025 – Wall Street eyes Friday’s release of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) report. This event marks the key data of the month. The government shutdown now limits usual data. This report now holds more sway on markets and policy talks. Many experts call it “the report to end all reports.”

Key Context: Why This CPI Report Matters More Than Usual

The Bureau of Labor Statistics will publish the report on Friday, October 24. The report was set for October 15 but got pushed back by the shutdown. Its release comes before the Federal Reserve meets for policy talks, which wrap on Wednesday, October 29. Troy Ludtka, a senior U.S. economist at SMBC Nikko Securities, said, “We have little fresh government data, so all eyes are on this report.” With few new numbers available, investors, analysts, and policy makers want to see clear signs of inflation trends.

What the Forecast Looks Like

Wall Street believes that September’s CPI will follow last month’s path and show steady inflation:

  • Monthly all-items CPI: May rise by 0.4%, as it did in August.
  • Year-over-year inflation rate: May hit 3.1%, up 0.2 points from August.
  • Core CPI (without food and energy): May go up by 0.3% for the month and hold at 3.1% for the year, as in August.
  • The annual core number would be the highest since January 2025. Though many expect the same trends, even small shifts could make markets jump, as the lack of data makes each number count.

Special Focus: Trade Tariffs and Price Effects

Analysts watch the effects of trade tensions linked with President Donald Trump’s tariffs. Goldman Sachs experts note:

  • Auto prices may hold steady.
  • Car insurance may see a rise.
  • Airfares could drop.
  • Prices for phones, home goods, and recreational items might face some upward pull.
  • In all, tariffs may add about 0.07 points to core inflation.

Data Reliability Concerns Amid the Shutdown

The shutdown casts doubt on the accuracy of economic data. Vishal Khanduja, head of broad markets fixed income at Morgan Stanley Investment Management, warned, “The market misses key data now, so there is added uncertainty.”

Even with these doubts, investors show strength. Stock averages near record highs persist despite daily moves.

Broader Market and Economic Implications

Geopolitical risk and changes in tariff policy cause worry about inflation and economic growth. Earlier numbers showed a strong U.S. economy, with the Atlanta Fed near a 4% GDP growth estimate for the third quarter.

The CPI numbers will shape what the Federal Reserve decides at its meeting, where many foresee a quarter-point rate cut. Julien Lafargue, chief market strategist at Barclays Private Bank, said, “A big surprise on the high side would make the market rethink a rate cut.”

Market Reactions: Volatility Ahead?

Stephanie Link, chief investment strategist at Hightower Advisors, warned that higher numbers could boost market swings. Still, she sees a chance to buy as the economy stays strong, the Fed may cut rates, EPS grows in double digits, and the fourth quarter tends to be strong.

Conclusion

In short, Friday’s CPI report now stands as the month’s top economic event. It may shape markets, policy talks, and investor views. While numbers are expected to show steady inflation, the lack of data from the shutdown and ongoing global risks bring extra focus on every figure.

Investors and analysts watching inflation should note the report on October 24 and watch the market moves that may follow.

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EQB Announces 8% Workforce Reduction: A Strategic Restructuring in Canada’s Banking Sector

EQB Announces 8% Workforce Reduction Amid Restructuring Efforts in Canada’s Banking Sector

October 23, 2025 — EQB Inc., which runs Equitable Bank (Canada’s seventh largest by assets), will cut its workforce by eight per cent. The bank makes these changes to work more efficiently. It is the latest layoff in Canada’s banking scene this year.

Details of the Restructuring Plan

On Wednesday, EQB said its restructuring will cost about $67 million. This cost covers worker cuts and impairment charges. The fourth‐quarter report will show these expenses. Analysts say about 160 full-time jobs will end.

Chadwick Westlake, EQB’s CEO, said, "We are taking action for the future. We make firm decisions that boost productivity. These moves improve our operating leverage and efficiency ratio. We are ready to capture new profit opportunities." He noted that the bank will reignite its core, grow its line of products, and build world-class operations.

Industry Context and Analyst Perspectives

EQB’s decision came soon after the Bank of Nova Scotia cut an unknown number of jobs. Toronto-Dominion Bank also planned a two per cent cut in May. Darko Mihelic, an analyst at Royal Bank of Canada, called EQB’s change "hesitantly positive." He said, "We expected EQB to take a restructuring charge. However, an eight per cent cut is larger and came sooner than we thought. We still see EQB as a fast-growing company."
Mike Rizvanovic, an analyst at the Bank of Nova Scotia, added that the cuts help fight expense headwinds. He warned that such a drop in jobs might hurt morale since EQB has not faced such layoffs in recent years.

Broader Banking Sector Trends

EQB’s layoffs join a trend in Canada’s banking sector. Many banks now restructure to cut costs and work more efficiently. They face tough market conditions and stronger competition. Financial experts watch keenly to see how these changes will affect EQB’s growth, employee spirit, and service quality moving forward.

For further coverage and detailed analysis, subscribe to Financial Post for exclusive insights and updates from Canada’s financial sector.

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