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Canadian Money Brief: 5 Things to Know Today — May 18, 2026

  A quick scan of the five stories shaping your wallet right now — from the Bank of Canada's next big decision to your mortgage renewal and a brand-new federal agency hunting financial criminals. 1 Bank of Canada Rate Holds at 2.25% — Next Decision Is June 10 The Bank of Canada kept its overnight policy rate steady at 2.25% at its April 29 meeting, citing a rise in energy-driven inflation and ongoing uncertainty from U.S. tariffs. Governing Council held firm while acknowledging a rate hike could become necessary if oil-linked price pressures prove persistent. The next announcement lands on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 — mark your calendar. Why it matters: Your variable-rate mortgage, HELOC, and lines of credit are directly tied to this rate. With bank prime rates sitting at 4.45%, every meeting counts. 2 Markets TSX Slips Below 34,000 as Bond Yields Spike The S&P/TSX Composite Index finished last week down close to 2%, sliding under the 34,000 mark. A global bond market selloff...
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Drug shortages in Canada affect millions of patients and health care providers

 

  

Many Canadians have experienced the frustration and anxiety of not being able to get the medications they need, as the country faces a persistent and worsening problem of drug shortages.

According to a survey commissioned by the Canadian Pharmacists Association, one in four adults in Canada has either personally been affected by drug shortages in the last three years or knows someone who has. The survey also found that 70% of pharmacists have difficulty finding alternative drugs for their patients.

The causes of drug shortages are complex and varied, ranging from manufacturing issues, supply chain disruptions, regulatory hurdles, market decisions by pharmaceutical companies, and increased demand for certain drugs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Some of the drugs that have been in short supply include Lenoltec No. 4, a painkiller containing codeine; Ozempic, a widely-used drug for type 2 diabetes; EpiPens, which are essential for people with life-threatening allergies; Wellbutrin, a popular antidepressant; and various blood pressure medications.

Drug shortages can have serious consequences for patients and health care providers, such as increased costs, reduced quality of care, delayed or cancelled treatments, adverse reactions, medication errors, and psychological distress.

Health Canada has said it is aware of the issue and working to find solutions, such as facilitating the importation of foreign drugs, monitoring the supply situation, and collaborating with stakeholders. However, some experts have called for more action, such as investing in domestic production capacity, creating a national drug agency, and implementing mandatory reporting of drug shortages by manufacturers.

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