Global Trade Outlook: Tariff Risks and Energy Shock

BMO Private Wealth - Apr 09, 2026

Steve Verheul, Former Chief Trade Negotiator for Canada, will join a panel of BMO experts to share insights on the trade outlook and how businesses and investors can prepare.

Ship passing through water.

Two events have overshadowed the global trade outlook. Earlier this year, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled the recently enacted international emergency duties, a cornerstone of President Donald Trump’s economic policies, are unlawful. However, more tariffs are expected under other trade authorizations.

Meanwhile, the conflict in the Middle East has caused oil prices to surge, raising concerns about the impact on growth and trade flows. Risks and uncertainty remain for the global trade outlook, and particularly the U.S.-Canada trade corridor. Talks to renew the USMCA are under way. Any outcome is possible, including extension, renegotiation, and exit.

This digital event will gather a panel of experts to discuss how global trade could evolve this year, the potential impact of higher oil prices on trade, how U.S. tariffs will be used to support Trump’s economic agenda, and risks to U.S.-Canada trade. Steve Verheul, Former Chief Trade Negotiator for Canada, will join a panel of BMO experts to share insights on the trade outlook and how businesses and investors can prepare.

Moderator:

The Hon. Brian Tobin, Vice Chair, BMO Financial Group

Speakers:

Steve Verheul, Former Chief Trade Negotiator for Canada and Independent Geopolitical Strategist

Sal Guatieri, Director and Senior Economist, BMO  

François Trahan, Chief Investment Strategist, BMO Capital Markets  

Listen to the Markets Plus podcast based on the discussion:

 

 

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