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Where to Find the Best Savings and GIC Rates in Canada This Week

Canadians looking to stretch their savings a little further still have access to competitive high‑interest savings accounts (HISAs) and guaranteed investment certificates (GICs). Digital banks continue to lead the way, offering strong returns without sacrificing security. Here’s a quick snapshot of the top rates available this week. Highest High‑Interest Savings Account Rates Several online‑only institutions are offering some of the most attractive HISA rates right now: Saven Financial – 2.85% Oaken Financial – 2.80% EQ Bank – 2.75% Bridgewater Bank – 2.70% WealthONE Bank – 2.60% These accounts are typically insured either federally or provincially, giving savers both flexibility and peace of mind. Best GIC Rates This Week For those comfortable locking in their money for a set period, GICs continue to provide reliable, guaranteed returns. 1‑Year GIC Leaders Oaken Financial – 3.40% 5‑Year GIC Leaders EQ Bank – 3.85% Longer‑term GICs remain especially appealing for ...

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US holiday retail sales grow 3.1%, down from prior year -Mastercard



US retail sales rose 3.1% between Nov. 1 and Dec. 24, rounding up a majority of the holiday sales for retailers, as shoppers looked for last-minute Christmas deals amid big promotions, a Mastercard report showed on Tuesday.

The increase is lower than the 3.7% growth Mastercard forecast in September, and has slumped from last year’s 7.6% as higher interest rates and inflation pressured consumer spending. Sales in the apparel and restaurant categories rose 2.4% and 7.8%, respectively, during the holiday shopping period, according to the Mastercard Spending Pulse report, while sales of electronics fell 0.4%.

Ecommerce sales grew at a slower pace of 6.3% from last year’s 10.6% as the popularity of online shopping came off pandemic highs, the report showed.

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