The USD/CAD exchange rate is showing a firmer tone in post-Christmas trade as shifting risk sentiment reshapes near-term direction. The US dollar rate today is edging higher as markets turn more cautious amid rising Middle East tensions, with Saudi airstrikes and Iran’s war rhetoric driving safe-haven demand and supporting the greenback. This renewed USD bid has nudged the pair higher, keeping the CAD to USD rate tilted in favour of the dollar. Meanwhile, the Canadian dollar rate today is slipping modestly under the weight of a firmer USD, though downside pressure remains limited as higher crude oil prices, fuelled by concerns over potential supply disruptions in the region, continue to offer support to the loonie. With geopolitical headlines dominating and liquidity still thin, the exchange rate is likely to remain sensitive to swings in risk appetite rather than domestic data in the near term.
A quick view of the CAD today against the USD and other major currencies.
| Pair | Rates | Daily | Ranges | ||
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In today’s daily FX spotlight, attention on the economic calendar and FX calendar is muted as markets head into the Christmas holiday period. With no major Canadian data scheduled, trading around the Canadian dollar today is expected to remain subdued, as thinner liquidity limits directional conviction. In the US, focus turns to Initial Jobless Claims, which may offer a brief pulse check on labour market conditions and influence near-term sentiment around the US dollar today. However, with holiday-thinned participation likely to dampen follow-through, any reaction is expected to be short-lived unless the data delivers a clear surprise.
| date | event | actual | consensus | previous |
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The latest Canadian dollar news suggests a steadier but cautious tone, with the Canadian dollar rate today holding firm as broader US dollar weakness continues to offer support. With no major domestic data releases due amid the Christmas holiday lull, the loonie is likely to take its cues from external drivers, particularly US labour signals and overall risk sentiment. While deeper USD losses have helped lift CAD toward recent highs, thin liquidity conditions may limit follow-through, keeping the Canadian dollar trading in a narrow range unless US data delivers a meaningful surprise.