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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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2023 Holiday Season E-Commerce Spending Breaks Records


According to research data from Adobe, online consumer spending broke records over the 2023 holiday season, with consumers spending over $22 billion. This is the largest revenue in the past three years, with value-driven purchases still the focus. Thanksgiving to Cyber Monday saw 22% of purchases, due to the various sales opportunities during that window. Yahoo Finance’s Brooke DiPalma breaks down these numbers and weighs in on the buy now, pay later trends’ role in holiday spending.

The trend of online shopping has been on the rise for years, and the 2023 holiday season was no exception. With the convenience of online shopping, consumers are able to purchase items from the comfort of their own homes. The rise of buy now, pay later options has also made it easier for consumers to make purchases without having to pay the full amount upfront.

Overall, the 2023 holiday season was a success for e-commerce, with record-breaking sales and a focus on value-driven purchases. 

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