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Bank of Canada Holds the Line as Global Turmoil Clouds Outlook

  Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem takes part in a press conference in Ottawa on September 17, 2025 The Bank of Canada has opted to keep its key interest rate steady at 2.25%, a decision that reflects the delicate balancing act policymakers face as global uncertainty intensifies. With inflationary pressures rising and economic growth showing signs of strain, the central bank is navigating a narrow path shaped by forces largely outside its control. A major driver of the current tension is the surge in oil prices triggered by ongoing geopolitical conflict. Higher energy costs are feeding into broader inflation, raising concerns that price pressures could become more persistent. At the same time, elevated borrowing costs and weakening consumer confidence are weighing on domestic economic momentum. By holding the rate, the Bank of Canada signals caution: it aims to avoid stifling growth while still keeping inflation expectations anchored. The central bank emphasized that it rema...

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Tomato Soup


Beat the cold in the most delicious way: this simple tomato soup recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a nourishing bowl of goodness.

 

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 cups chopped yellow onions (2 onions)
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic (3 cloves)
  • 4 cups chicken stock, preferably homemade
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano
  • Large pinch of sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup orzo pasta (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves, julienned, for garnish
  • Croutons, for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large nonreactive pot, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. When butter is melted, add the onions and cook over medium-low/medium heat, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent. Do not brown.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for a few minutes more, stirring to be sure garlic does not burn.
  3. Stir in the flour and continue cooking and stirring for 1 to 2 minutes more.
  4. Add the chicken broth, tomatoes, sugar, thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.
  5. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat while stirring to make sure that the flour is not sticking to the bottom or sides of the pan. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for about 30 minutes.
  6. Use a hand-held immersion blender to puree soup until very smooth. (Alternatively, let the soup cool slightly and puree in batches in a blender. Be sure to crack the lid or remove the center cap to allow steam to escape.) Season to taste with salt and pepper.
  7. Stir in remaining 3 tablespoons of butter.
  8. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil, croutons, and a generous sprinkling of Parmigiano-Reggiano.


 

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