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Business
- byFinancial Times
- February 13, 2026
US President Plans Rollback of Metal Tariffs Amid Cooling Inflation
President Donald Trump’s administration is preparing to trim or roll back tariffs on a range of metal and aluminium goods that had previously driven up costs for downstream manufacturers and consumers. The original tariffs — some as high as 50% under national security exemptions — were widely criticized for contributing to price volatility and supply‑chain strain in sectors such as automotive, construction, and industrial equipment. Recent US inflation data showed consumer prices rising less than expected in January, with core readings falling within targets that could justify diminished trade protections going forward. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} Economists say the move aims to ease cost pressures ahead of the mid‑term elections and may also signal White House willingness to unclog tensions in key global supply chains. U.S. manufacturers with heavy reliance on imported steel and aluminium have welcomed the talks, though labour unions have warned against undermining domestic capacity. The shift in tariff policy also intersects with broader efforts to strengthen U.S. competitiveness in semiconductors, clean energy, and critical minerals. Investors have reacted with cautious optimism, sending mixed signals to industrial stocks during intraday trading. However, the tariff reductions remain subject to internal review and could be adjusted before formal implementation.
Business
- byReuters
- February 12, 2026
NY Fed Report: American Households Bearing Brunt of Tariff Costs
A new report from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York shows that roughly 90% of recent U.S. tariffs on imported goods are ultimately being paid by American consumers and companies rather than foreign exporters. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2} The finding contradicts the Trump administration’s long‑standing assertion that tariffs are primarily borne by foreign producers, instead underscoring the pass‑through effect on domestic prices and business expenses. Consumer advocacy groups have seized on the report to argue for tariff reform, saying the added costs chip away at household budgets and corporate margins alike. Retail price indices for basic manufactured goods reflect upward pressure, particularly in durable goods and intermediate inputs. Small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) have expressed heightened concern, noting that elevated supply‑chain costs are eroding competitiveness against foreign rivals. Labour organizations also weighed in, highlighting how tariff‑driven inflation can disproportionately impact lower‑wage workers. Some sectors may press for increased tariff exemptions or sector‑specific relief as budget discussions proceed on Capitol Hill. Overall, the NY Fed analysis adds empirical weight to debates over U.S. trade policy and its real‑world impacts.
Business
- byReuters
- February 12, 2026
Air Canada Forecasts Higher Core Profit as Corporate Travel Surges
Air Canada projects 2026 core profit to slightly surpass Wall Street expectations as corporate and premium international travel demand expands, particularly to Europe and the Pacific. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3} The airline reported a rebound from a loss a year earlier, with growth in revenue supported by strong bookings on long‑haul routes despite cost pressures from labour and delivery delays on new aircraft. Executives highlighted that nearly 30% of passenger revenue now comes from overseas corporate traffic, a shift attributed to global firms diversifying supply chains and meeting demand beyond North America. Wider international engagement reflects strategic trade diversification amid ongoing U.S.–Canada tariff tensions, which have prompted some multinational businesses to rethink cross‑border logistics. Air Canada’s available seat miles are expected to rise between 3.5% and 5.5% in 2026, as the carrier expands winter services and brings new Airbus A350‑1000 jets into service. Analysts note that solid international performance could better position the airline against North American rivals competing for premium passengers. Nevertheless, rising labour costs and fuel price volatility remain headwinds for aviation profitability. Investors are watching closely for guidance updates in upcoming quarterly reports.
Business
- byReuters
- February 13, 2026
Air Canada Sees 30% Surge in Overseas Corporate Bookings
Air Canada reports a nearly 30% increase in corporate passengers on long‑haul routes as companies expand beyond traditional U.S. hubs amid ongoing trade policy uncertainty. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4} Chief Commercial Officer Mark Galardo noted that robust demand from Europe and the Pacific is reshaping the airline’s route planning and revenue mix. Despite challenges in cost structures due to labour agreements and supply chain constraints, the long‑haul premium traffic surge signals strong corporate confidence in cross‑border engagement outside the U.S. sphere. The trend may also reflect broader business strategies that emphasize diversified supply chains and market access, even amid tariff‑related pressures on certain North American goods. Analysts expect this demand pattern to persist through 2026, bolstering Air Canada’s revenue performance while prompting competitors to adjust capacity on key international corridors. The airline is also enhancing its premium services and lounges to capture higher‑yield customers amid a competitive premium travel environment. However, macroeconomic risks such as inflation and costs in advanced economies continue to pose potential headwinds. Investors are tracking forward guidance for insights on fleet deployments and pricing power in the premium segment.