CANADA’S $155 BILLION RETALIATORY TARIFFS: GUIDANCE FOR AFCC ALUMNI AND CANDIDATE DESIGNEES AND SELF CARE
From William Moores, CEO of the Canadian Association for Financial Empowerment (CAFE)
Dear AFCC Alumni, Candidates and Members,
I’m reaching out as we come to learn of the Canadian government’s recent announcement of $155 billion in retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods—a development that has further heightened the sense of economic uncertainty many Canadians already feel. Your role as Accredited Financial Counsellors Canada (AFCC) is more essential than ever, and I want to offer you both practical insights and heartfelt support as you prepare to guide individuals and families through these challenges.
At CAFE, we take pride in the ethical standards that define our approach to financial empowerment—standards rooted in respect, empathy, and a commitment to actionable solutions. As AFCC professionals, you are uniquely positioned to be a steadfast pillar of reassurance and expertise for clients. But it’s equally important to look after your own well-being, so you can sustain the compassionate support our communities need.
RECOGNIZING CLIENT CONCERNS
Countless Canadians were already dealing with inflation, debt, and rising costs of living amongst a plethora of incredible weight. Now, with daily uncertainty, marketing and media blending lines, news of tariffs on everyday goods such as food staples, car parts, and manufacturing materials, many worry about higher grocery bills, increased vehicle costs, potential business setbacks, and job security.
Clients might ask:
“Will my food costs soar?”
“Should I hold off on buying a new car?”
“What does this mean for my small business?”
“Could my job be at risk?”
Understanding their worries and knowing how to address them—without amplifying anxiety—is a core skill in delivering effective financial counselling.
OFFERING PRACTICAL SUPPORT
Acknowledge concerns while focusing on what’s within their control. Listening is key, and by validating fears, you help clients regain a sense of power over their financial choices.
For instance:
“I hear how unsettling this feels. Let’s look at your current budget and potential adjustments, so you know exactly where you stand, even amidst these changes.”
Encourage them to review daily expenses and consider Canadian alternatives or bulk options for groceries. If they planned a major car purchase or repair, discuss whether it might be better to wait.
Reassess payment strategies on credit cards or loans so that rising costs don’t put them at further risk.
Direct clients to any government relief programs or community-based aid they may qualify for.
For business owners, exploring local suppliers or tariff exemptions can be a practical step toward alleviating financial strain.
TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF AS AN AFCC
High-stress situations can leave you susceptible to compassion fatigue if you don’t prioritize your own well-being. Watch for signs such as feeling drained after multiple sessions, an inability to disconnect from work-related worries, irritability, or physical symptoms like headaches.
Establishing emotional boundaries is crucial. You can’t solve every problem, and you’re not expected to. Pace your sessions by taking short breaks to reset your focus. Leverage the AFCC community through our Empowerment CAFÉ to share challenges and discover new perspectives.
Remember to monitor your own wellness, boundaries, self-care, finances and engage in replenishing activities like exercise, hobbies, or mindfulness. These aren’t luxuries; they keep you grounded and able to serve others effectively.
MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER WITH COMPASSION AND CONFIDENCE
No doubt, these retaliatory tariffs have added new complications to Canada’s economic landscape. However, with challenges come opportunities for AFCCs to showcase empathy, educate effectively, and instil hope in uncertain times. As an AFCC Alumni or Candidate, you will play a pivotal role in helping Canadians build a secure future, even in the face of rapid change.
At CAFE, we’re here to support your professional growth every step of the way. If you need additional resources, training, or simply a listening ear, please reach out. You can visit www.cafe-acaf.org. We’re committed to fostering a vibrant community of learning and collaboration.
Your compassion, expertise, and resilience matter—both to your clients and to the broader cause of financial empowerment in Canada. Thank you for answering the call to serve, and for being the steady presence that people need now more than ever. Know you are not alone I encourage you to lean on your fellow AFCC community.
Let's always reinforce our shared mission—to stand together, uphold ethical and empowering practices, and help Canadians navigate economic adversity with confidence and hope.
Warmly,
William Moores
CEO, Canadian Association for Financial Empowerment (CAFE)
