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BoC Holds at 2.25%: What the Rate Decision (and Rising Gas Prices) Mean for Your Wallet

  Thursday, July 16, 2026 Sixth consecutive hold. A weaker 2026 growth forecast. And inflation that's running hotter because of gas prices, not the usual suspects. Here's what actually changes for you. The Bank of Canada held its overnight rate at 2.25% on Wednesday, exactly as markets expected. No surprise there. What's more interesting is why it held, and what it revealed about where the economy — and your bills — are headed next. This was the sixth straight hold since the Bank finished its easing cycle back in October. But buried in the accompanying Monetary Policy Report were a few numbers worth your attention. The Numbers That Matter Overnight Rate 2.25% (unchanged) Prime Rate (typical) 4.45% 2026 GDP Growth Forecast 0.7% (cut from 1.2%) 2027 / 2028 Growth Forecast 1.8% each year May CPI Inflation 3.2% Inflation Excluding Gasoline 2.2% Unemployment Rate (June) 6.5% Next Rate Decision September 2, 2026 Why Gas Prices Are Driving This Decision Here's the twist in th...

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Boost Your Credit Score and Save Money: Expert Tips


With household finances still tight for many Americans, increasing your credit score may be one way to save money. A recent study by LendingTree reveals that raising your credit score can have substantial financial benefits. Here are the details:

The Impact of a Higher Credit Score

  • Savings Potential: Increasing your credit score from fair (580 to 669) to very good (740 to 799) could save you a whopping $22,263 over the life of your credit and loans. Mortgages account for the largest portion of these savings, with an impressive $16,677.

  • Monthly Savings: Overall, consumers stand to save an extra $92 per month across various debt types, including auto loans, credit cards, mortgages, and personal loans. While this projected savings has decreased from a previous estimate, it’s still a significant amount that can make a difference in your financial well-being.

Expert Tips for Improving Your Credit Score

  1. Check Your Credit Report for Errors: Mistakes on credit reports are more common than you might think. About 1 in 5 consumers discover errors, and disputing these inaccuracies can lead to score improvements. Keep an eye out for any discrepancies and take action to correct them.

  2. Aim for a Higher Score: While a credit score above 700 is generally considered good, reaching 740 or higher opens up even more opportunities. With a higher score, you’ll qualify for better loan terms and lower interest rates. It’s worth the effort to boost your score and reap the long-term benefits.

Remember, improving your credit score isn’t just about numbers—it’s about securing your financial future. So take proactive steps, monitor your credit, and watch those savings add up! 

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