The USD/CAD exchange rate is opening the first full trading week of 2026 with a firmer bias as shifting geopolitical and macro drivers guide early positioning. The US dollar rate today is strengthening following US intervention in Venezuela, with markets now turning their focus to upcoming ISM manufacturing PMI data for confirmation of underlying economic momentum. This renewed USD bid has tilted near-term CAD to USD sentiment in favour of the greenback. Meanwhile, the Canadian dollar rate today is drifting modestly lower amid a stronger US dollar. However, downside pressure remains contained as rising crude oil prices, fuelled by developments in Venezuela and the capture of President Maduro, continue to offer support to the loonie. With energy markets providing a buffer, the exchange rate is likely to remain sensitive to US data and geopolitical headlines.
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 turns to the economic calendar, with the ISM Manufacturing PMI in focus as a key driver of market direction. Investors will be watching the data closely for signals on US growth momentum, which could shape expectations around policy and influence sentiment toward the US dollar today. With no major domestic releases scheduled, moves in the Canadian dollar today are likely to be driven by USD dynamics and broader risk appetite, leaving the loonie sensitive to any surprise in the PMI reading that could shift near-term FX positioning.
| date | event | actual | consensus | previous |
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The latest Canadian dollar news points to a cautious and externally driven outlook, with the Canadian dollar rate today showing limited follow-through as markets await clearer signals from the US. With ISM Manufacturing PMI in focus, the loonie remains sensitive to shifts in US growth expectations and broader risk sentiment rather than domestic fundamentals. While support from oil prices and steady Bank of Canada expectations helps limit downside risk, uncertainty around the US outlook is likely to keep the Canadian dollar trading near recent levels rather than establishing a decisive trend.