'No going backwards': As Donald Trump's tariffs fuel rising US-Canada tensions, dual citizen feels the 'strain' — how international relations can affect your wallet

Tensions beyond trade policy

Early in March, Trump imposed 25% tariffs on most imports from Canada, with an exemption for products that are compliant with the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). On March 12, he placed 25% tariffs on global steel and aluminum imports, including from Canada. On April 3, the president imposed 25% tariffs on imported vehicles with some exemptions. Trump has also threatened further tariffs on Canadian dairy and lumber products.

Canada, for its part, has responded by issuing retaliatory tariffs of its own on U.S. goods.

But these aren't the only actions that have caused friction between both nations. Trump has repeatedly suggested making Canada the 51st state of the U.S. — even mockingly referring to former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as "governor" — comments Canadians perceived to be a threat to the country's sovereignty.

Regardless of whether or not Trump's quips were simply playful jabs, current Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has signaled that the old relationship between Canada and the U.S. is over.

"It's clear the U.S. is no longer a reliable partner," he said at a press conference on March 27. "It is possible that with comprehensive negotiations, we could re-establish an element of confidence, but there will be no going backwards."

Despite the turmoil and economic uncertainty between both countries, Amato insists she’s optimistic that the long-standing relationship between the U.S. and Canada will endure.

“We are friends, and we will be friends forever,” she said. “So, let’s please not allow the political climate to affect that.”

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How international relations can affect your wallet

International tensions aren't just another headline for American consumers — they can have real-world impacts on personal finances.

In the case of Canada and the U.S., individuals living near the border — particularly those with income or assets in both countries — can feel financial strain beyond the effects economic tools such as tariffs have on the price of goods. Fluctuations in currency exchange rates between the U.S. dollar (USD) and Canadian dollar (CAD) can significantly impact purchasing power, investment returns and the cost of living.

For example, when tariffs escalate tensions, investor confidence may fall, causing currency volatility. If the CAD weakens, Canadians who earn income in Canadian dollars but have expenses or investments in the U.S. face reduced spending power. Conversely, a stronger CAD could mean Americans pay more for Canadian goods and services.

Here are some ways to manage your personal finances in this time of uncertainty:

• Don't stop contributing to your 401(k) if you're more than 10 years away from retirement. Market fluctuations can make contributing to retirement feel risky, but long-term investing can weather these swings.
• Look for ways to spend less so tariffs don't impact your budget as much. For example, now is not the time to invest in a new vehicle unless you must.
• If you're holding both USD and CAD, pay attention to exchange rates and identify favorable times to transfer funds between them.
• Limit large cross-border purchases when exchange rates aren't in your favor — this includes everything from appliances to real estate.
• Diversify your assets by holding investments or accounts in both currencies and spending from whichever account is more favorable.

While politicians debate policy, consumers on both sides of the U.S.-Canada border are left navigating the ripple effects — making it more important than ever to stay informed and financially flexible.