What’s next for Canada? Lisa Raitt on politics and the economy in the Carney era
In this episode of Smart Advice, Carissa Lucreziano sits down with the Honourable Lisa Raitt, former federal cabinet minister and current Vice Chair of CIBC Capital Markets, to navigate the complex interplay of politics, economics, and markets. With insight shaped by decades of experience in government and now in the financial services sector, Lisa cuts through the noise to reflect on what matters most: Canada's sovereignty, strategy, and resilience in a rapidly changing global landscape.Be equipped with insights to make sense of volatility, understand the tools available to weather potential changes in US-Canada relations, and learn where smart money might be headed next. This episode is for every Canadian asking how to turn economic uncertainty into actionable opportunity.Here are three reasons why you should listen to this episode:Learn how political shifts, including Canada's new leadership, could reshape economic priorities at home and abroad.Understand the long-term implications of Donald Trump's return to the global stage and how Canada must prepare for potential changes in US-Canada relations.Gain clarity on growth opportunities in sectors like power generation, manufacturing, and national defence.ResourcesCIBC's "Smart Advice" Podcast and Website - Website | Apple Podcast | SpotifyThe Raitt StuffVisit CIBC for more Smart Advice, including a recent piece on ‘Navigating uncertainty and market volatility’Episode highlights[00:05] Are Canadians ready for future US-Canada relations?Lisa Raitt is introduced as a former cabinet minister in natural resources, labor, and transportation, now serving as Vice Chair at CIBC Capital Markets.Canadians today face rising global tensions, inflationary pressures, and heightened political transitions which are reshaping economic expectations and policies.Lisa shares her optimism over the clarity offered by Canada’s newly elected Prime Minister, Liberal leader Mark Carney, noting the stability—even in a minority government.The current US-Canada relations may shift with Prime Minister Carney’s approach, but Lisa warns against overconfidence.Trade negotiations require more than charisma—leaders must find practical ways to provide the U.S. with a political “win” while protecting Canadian interests.[02:24] The rise of economic nationalismLisa outlines how economic nationalism, especially in the US, has led to the weaponization of tariffs and elevated supply chain threats.Canada’s dependence on US trade is now seen as both a strength and a potential vulnerability—prompting calls for increased self-reliance.She advocates for doubling down on sectors where Canada already has a comparative advantage: energy, agriculture, mining, and forestry. [08:48] Lisa: “What has happened in the time of Trump is we realize that you can't continue on just accepting the United States growth as the growth that we're going to get; that we actually have to do some work ourselves” Government must play a dual role—advocating for global trade fairness while supporting long-term investment in domestic capacity and infrastructure. [09:31] Understanding Trump’s policy visionUnlike previous leaders, Trump’s economic policy direction is guided less by data and more by ideology, particularly focused on ‘Made in America’ mandates.Lisa emphasizes that traditional counter-arguments (e.g., logic, economic impact) often fall flat with the Trump administration.Trump is unapologetically focused on rebuilding American manufacturing—painful or not—for the long-term benefit of US jobs and industrial strength.Canadian leaders and citizens must stop assuming rational policy shifts or midterm electoral changes in the US will automatically solve trade tensions. [12:18] What’s driving American progress?Despite controversial rhetoric, some of Trump’s policies—bringing semiconductor production back, advancing nuclear energy—could deliver strategic benefit.The concern lies in whether these wins are drowned out by large-scale costs: fractured alliances, damaged supply chains, and fragile diplomacy.[13:42] Lisa: “When you're presented with a dog's breakfast of tons of different policies, some of them are going to be good. The question, though, is whether or not the overall policy direction is such that it kind of takes away all the wins because the losses are so massive.”Canada’s response needs to be realistic, grounded in its own capabilities and long-term values rather than reactive politics. [14:05] Canada: Not the 51st US StateLisa strongly believes in Canadian sovereignty, rejecting the suggestion that Canada could—or should—become the 51st US state.She suggests that the idea may stem from a desire for closer cooperation, but realizing that idea must not come at the cost of Canada’s national identity or self-determination.However, it may be beneficial to push for stronger strategic collaboration in areas like North American defence, transportation infrastructure, and trade logistics.According to Lisa, Canada and many other NATO states have neglected their roles in national defence, often relying on U.S. military spending. [18:50] Market trends to watch amidst shifting U.S.-Canada relationsLisa identifies power generation as the backbone of future economic infrastructure—no longer just a policy option but a necessity.Energy constraints are already impacting provincial decisions, signalling long-term opportunities for investors.Lisa urges Canadian investors to continue trusting expert advisors—and to anchor their portfolios to well-researched macro insights.Branching into sectors like energy, resource extraction, and clean technology offers more stability in an uncertain political environment.Watching how the Carney government navigates energy pipeline development will be crucial; investors should blend pragmatic strategy with public policy foresight. [25:04] Charting a path forward for CanadaLisa remains hopeful yet cautious about the government’s ability to deliver meaningful results in the next four years.The speech from the throne will be telling as to whether there’s a break from past policy gridlocks toward more resilient, future-focused legislation.Maintaining stable US-Canada relations involves more than policy; we have to remember to distinguish between governments and people.The thickening of the U.S.-Canada border is another sad consequence of political tension, and efforts must be made to restore trust and open channels.About Lisa Lisa Raitt is the Vice Chair at CIBC Capital Markets, bringing decades of experience in navigating economic and political landscapes. A former Canadian federal cabinet minister, she held key portfolios including Natural Resources, Labour, and Transport, steering policy through complex economic shifts. Known for her pragmatic approach, Lisa now applies her expertise to the financial sector, offering strategic insights on global trade, economic resilience, and market trends.As host of The Raitt Stuff podcast, she delivers candid, impactful discussions on economic issues affecting Canadians and global markets. A trusted voice in policy and finance, Lisa combines political acumen with economic foresight, empowering individuals and businesses to thrive in an evolving world.Connect with Lisa Raitt on LinkedIn.Enjoyed this Episode?If you did, be sure to subscribe and share it with your friends!Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning in, leave us a review. You can also send this with your friends and family. Step out of the chaos of modern life and into clarity. Learn how to take informed steps forward, understand the impact of shifting policies, and secure a financially sound future amidst shifting U.S.-Canada relations.Have any questions? You can connect with me on LinkedIn or through CIBC’s Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.Thanks for tuning in! For more updates, visit our website. You can also listen to more amazing episodes on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
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