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Canada Holds Steady: Interest Rate Pause Signals Cautious Confidence

                      The Bank of Canada also held its policy rate at its last scheduled rate announcement in December. The Bank of Canada has opted to keep its key interest rate at 2.25% , a move that underscores a careful balancing act as the country approaches a pivotal moment in North American trade relations. With CUSMA (the Canada‑United States‑Mexico Agreement) negotiations on the horizon, policymakers appear intent on maintaining stability while assessing potential economic turbulence. The decision reflects a mix of optimism and prudence. Inflation has been easing gradually, giving the central bank some breathing room. At the same time, global economic uncertainty and the high stakes of upcoming trade talks mean officials are reluctant to introduce new variables into the financial system. By holding the rate steady, the Bank of Canada signals confidence in the economy’s underlying resilience while acknowledgin...
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Yemeni Houthi Rebel Attacks on Ships in the Red Sea Disrupt Global Trade

 

The Yemeni Houthi rebel attacks on ships in the Red Sea have been causing significant disruptions to global trade. The Houthis, who are backed by Iran, have been targeting commercial ships in the region with drones and anti-ship missiles. 

The attacks have escalated since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023. The Red Sea is a crucial maritime artery for consumer goods and energy supplies, with 40% of Asia-Europe trade normally flowing through the area. The attacks have rerouted most of the trade normally flowing through the Red Sea, delaying shipments and raising transport costs. The impact of the attacks has been felt worldwide, with electric car maker Tesla announcing that it had to shut down its factory outside Berlin due to delays in supply chains.

In response to the growing impact on global trade, the United States and a host of other nations have created a new force to protect ships. The Biden administration has set up a 10-nation naval task force to protect ships traveling along this important route. Some of the world’s largest container shipping companies and oil giant BP have been sending vessels on longer journeys that bypass the Red Sea.


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