The Impact of Extreme Weather Events on Financial Vulnerability for Households and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

Climate change is impacting the financial and overall resilience of people and communities globally.

Leveraging data and analytics from the Financial Health and Resilience Index Model, the Financial Resilience Institute has investigated the intersection between the growing instances of extreme weather events and financial vulnerability for households and SMEs.

Providing data-driven evidence and analytics, the 2026 Climate Change Intelligence Report builds on our research dating back to 2021, including the July 2023 Climate Change Intelligence Memo. With longitudinal data, tracking of Canadians’ sentiments and more, the report offers insights and implications into the realities of Canadians being challenged by extreme weather events.

The Impact of Extreme Weather Events on Financial Vulnerability for Households and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Canada

Read the September 2026 Intelligence Report
Read the Press Release

Our trended data show increasing impacts on household financial vulnerability in Canada, with applications for other countries. The report examines:

  • The impact of extreme weather events on Canadian households and their financial vulnerability, using our Financial Health and Resilience Index
  • Growing household concerns about extreme weather and views that municipalities and provincial governments need to do more to strengthen preparedness
  • The financial impact of fires, floods and extreme heat on Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises
  • The relationship between sufficient insurance protection and financial vulnerability
  • Emerging implications and opportunities for financial institutions, insurers, governments, policymakers and climate leaders

 

Access Past Reports and Thought Leadership

The Impact of Extreme Weather Events on Canadian Household Financial Vulnerability and Financial Stress (July 2023)

Read the July 2023 Intelligence Memo

The Institute is committed to continuing the conversation and investigating the intersection between climate and financial vulnerability. Most recently, our CEO, Eloise Duncan, has co-written an op-ed alongside Chad Park, VP Sustainability and Citizenship, Co-operators and David Hughes, President and CEO, Generate Canada.

Read the full op-ed here.

For any feedback, questions or comments on this research, please contact info@finresilienceinstitute.org