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Why Interest Rates Matter for Canadians

Interest rates are the single most powerful lever in Canada's economy.  When the Bank of Canada adjusts its policy rate, the effects reach every household—from the cost of carrying a mortgage to the return on a savings account. With rates currently at 2.25% and significant uncertainty ahead, understanding how rates work has never been more important for your finances. What Is the Bank of Canada's Policy Rate? The Bank of Canada sets the overnight policy rate—the interest rate at which major banks lend money to each other. This rate serves as a benchmark that influences borrowing and lending costs across the entire economy. When the Bank raises or lowers this rate, commercial banks adjust their prime rates accordingly, which directly affects the rates you pay on mortgages, lines of credit, and other loans. The Bank's primary goal is to keep inflation near its 2% target. When inflation runs too hot, the Bank raises rates to cool spending. When the economy slows, it cuts rates...

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Travel Tips: 7 Tips for Overseas Flights


Travel Tips: 7 Tips for Overseas Flights



 Here are some tips for overseas flights that can help you prepare for your trip:

  1. Pack lightly. Overpacking can be a hassle when you’re traveling overseas. You don’t want to carry too much luggage around with you. Try to pack only what you need and leave the rest at home.

  2. Choose an aisle seat. On long flights, it’s recommended that you get up and walk to stretch your muscles and avoid blood clots in your legs. This is much easier to do in an aisle seat, so book one as soon as you book your ticket.

  3. Use travel apps. Apps can be a savior when traveling, but especially when you’re abroad. You can use travel apps to keep in touch with your airline, translate different languages, search for services at airports, choose your seats and myriad other tasks.

  4. Dress comfortably. On a long flight, you want to look well-dressed, but you also want to be comfortable. Wear clothes that are loose-fitting and comfortable.

  5. Arrive early. Most airlines want you at the airport at least two hours before your flight takes off, especially if you’re leaving from a U.S. international gateway airport. It will give you time to check your bags, check-in, navigate the airport security checkpoint and get to your gate in plenty of time and arrive stress-free.

  6. Zip through customs. Those who travel internationally know that U.S. Customs and Immigration lines can be a nightmare, especially at peak arrival times at the major international U.S. airports. Smart travelers carry the Global Entry card, which speeds you right past the Immigration and Customs lines.

  7. Lounge around. Because you need to be at the airport so far in advance, consider paying for access to an airline-branded or airport lounge.

I hope these tips help! Let me know if there’s anything else I can help with.


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