October 11, 2025

From shifting political landscapes to the latest cultural trends, here's a rundown of the top Canadian news stories you need to know about.

🇨🇦 Political Pulse: Dollars, Deals, and Drama

The federal government is making moves that could directly impact your wallet and your future. Prime Minister Mark Carney has been active on both the national and international stages.

🤝 A New North American Vibe?

In a key meeting at the White House, Prime Minister Mark Carney and U.S. President Donald Trump have signaled optimism about a new trade deal. The potential agreement could bring significant changes to the Canadian economy, impacting everything from job prospects to the price of your favorite cross-border online shopping finds. This comes as a welcome development after a period of trade turbulence and the threat of new tariffs.

💰 Cash for Canadians: New Affordability Measures

In a bid to tackle the rising cost of living, the federal government has announced a series of new affordability measures. Here's a quick look at what's in the works:

• Permanent National School Food Program: This initiative aims to provide meals for up to 400,000 children, a move that could save families with two children around $800 a year on groceries.

   

• Automated Federal Benefits: Starting in 2026, the government will begin automatically filing taxes for millions of low-income Canadians to ensure they receive benefits like the GST/HST credit and the Canada Child Benefit.

   

• Renewed "Canada Strong Pass": This pass offers free or reduced admission to national museums and historic sites, as well as discounts on VIA Rail for young adults, making it easier and more affordable to explore the country.

   

These measures are part of the upcoming federal budget, which the government says will focus on responsible spending and long-term economic growth.

🍎 Alberta Teachers Hit the Picket Lines

In provincial news, Alberta's teachers have gone on strike, impacting over 730,000 students. The strike highlights ongoing tensions over education funding and resources in the province.

TRENDING: What's Hot in Canadian Gen Z Culture

Here's a snapshot of the social and cultural trends making waves across the country.

estética Y2K and the Thrifting Revolution

Get ready for a blast from the past! Early 2000s fashion and culture are making a major comeback, driven by Gen Z's nostalgia for a simpler time. Think low-rise jeans, flip phones, and wired headphones. This trend is also fueling a surge in sustainable fashion practices, with resale apps like Depop seeing explosive growth among young Canadians.

🛍️ The New "Value-Conscious" Consumer

While Gen Z may have a reputation for being digitally native, a surprising trend is emerging: a return to in-person shopping. It's not just about the products; it's about the experience. This generation is also proving to be "value-conscious," not just price-conscious, seeking out deals, embracing "dupes," and supporting brands that align with their values.

❤️‍🩹 Prioritizing Mental Health and Social Justice

Conversations around mental health continue to take center stage. World Mental Health Day was recently marked by a special lime-green illumination of the Samuel De Champlain Bridge in Montreal. There's also a growing distrust of traditional institutions and a strong desire for social justice, as seen in the ongoing advocacy for First Nations children's rights through Jordan's Principle.

💡 Tech and Innovation: Powering the Future

Canada is making significant investments in the technology of tomorrow, with a strong focus on sustainability and homegrown innovation.

🔋 Powering Up: Canada's Battery Bonanza

The federal government is investing over $22 million in eight projects aimed at accelerating battery innovation. This funding will support the development of made-in-Canada technology for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, positioning the country as a leader in the green economy.

🔬 "Made in Canada" Innovation on the World Stage

Canadian ingenuity was recently showcased on Parliament Hill at the "Made in Canada" event. The showcase highlighted groundbreaking global health innovations from across the country, demonstrating Canada's role in addressing some of the world's most pressing challenges.

警戒 Crypto Scams on the Rise

A recent investigation has revealed a concerning trend of fraudsters using cryptocurrency ATMs to launder money from scam victims. This serves as a critical reminder for tech-savvy Canadians to remain vigilant against online and digital currency scams.

🐾 Animal Welfare in the Spotlight

A pressing issue has captured the hearts of many Canadians: the fate of the beluga whales at the now-defunct Marineland amusement park. The park has threatened to euthanize its 30 belugas if it doesn't receive emergency government funding, sparking a public outcry and a heated debate between the Ontario and federal governments over who is responsible for the animals' welfare. Animal rights advocates are calling for a humane solution for the beloved marine mammals.