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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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Pan-Seared Steaks



Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless steaks (NY Strip, rib eye or filet mignon)
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of oil
  • 1 tablespoon of butter
  • Fresh thyme (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels.
  2. Season the steaks generously on both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat a heavy pan (preferably cast iron or stainless steel) over medium-high heat until it’s VERY hot.
  4. Add the oil to the pan and heat until it begins to shimmer and move fluidly around the pan.
  5. Carefully set the steak in the pan, releasing it away from you so the oil doesn’t splatter in your direction. It should sizzle.
  6. Leave it alone! Avoid the temptation to peek or fiddle or flip repeatedly. The steaks need a few minutes undisturbed to develop a brown crust.
  7. Flip the steaks when they release easily and the bottom is a deep-brown color (usually about 3 minutes).
  8. Continue to cook the steaks for another 3 to 4 minutes on the bottom side for rare or medium-rare.
  9. During the last minute of cooking, add 1 tablespoon of butter and a few sprigs of fresh thyme to the pan with the steaks (this is optional but delicious).


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