Advisors Say Trade Uncertainty Hits Household Finances
Trade uncertainty has become a kitchen-table issue for Canadians, with nearly half of financial advisors reporting that clients are raising concerns about trade policy, tariffs, and their impact on personal finances. According to a new FidelityConnects Advisor Pulse Poll fielded on June 11, 2026, 47% of advisors say clients are asking about the potential effects on household budgets, investments, and job security as Canada prepares for the upcoming review of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).
Top Client Concerns: Rising Costs and Market Volatility
The poll reveals that the most common client concerns are rising costs due to tariffs or supply chain disruptions (63%), market volatility linked to trade and geopolitical developments (43%), and job security and income stability (24%). One advisor noted: “My clients are concerned that the trade agreement could be scrapped entirely or significantly reduced in scope, creating the potential for new tariffs on goods and, ultimately, higher prices.”
Regional and Industry Hotspots
Trade concerns are most pronounced in certain regions and sectors. Advisors in Alberta (61%), Quebec (54%), and Atlantic Canada (48%) report the highest levels of client anxiety. By industry, clients in manufacturing (55%), energy (38%), and agriculture (32%) are most likely to raise trade-related issues.
“These findings reflect the reality that trade uncertainty affects people differently depending on where they live and how they earn a living,” said Chris Pepper, Vice President, Corporate Affairs at Fidelity Investments Canada ULC. “For many Canadians, especially those in regions and industries exposed to cross-border trade, these developments have direct implications for household finances and future planning.”
Advisors Guide Clients Through Uncertainty
In response, advisors are helping clients maintain perspective and focus on long-term financial goals. Chris Pepper emphasized: “Canadians are asking what existing and potentially new tariffs, rising costs and economic uncertainty could mean for their jobs, investments and long-term financial plans. In this environment, advisors provide the perspective and discipline clients need to stay focused on what they can control – and help them avoid making emotional decisions based on short-term developments.”
The FidelityConnects Advisor Pulse Poll surveyed financial advisors across Canada to gauge the impact of trade policy discussions on client conversations. As the CUSMA review approaches, the data underscores the growing intersection of trade policy and personal finance.
