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Your lookahead horoscope: January 18, 2026

  IF TODAY IS YOUR BIRTHDAY Your birthday chart is a thing of cosmic beauty – one of the best of the year – and whatever you turn your mind and your hand to this year will be a huge success. Make excellence your watchword and never give less than 100 per cent. ARIES (March 21 - April 20): The sun’s move into the area of your chart that governs hopes and wishes will encourage you to seek out new ways to improve your life. This area also rules friendships, so instead of trying to do everything on your own start making strategic alliances. TAURUS (April 21 - May 21): The ambitious side of your nature will get a boost this week as the sun joins Venus, your ruler, in the area of your chart that governs your standing in the world. Don’t look to authority figures to help you – you ARE an authority figure yourself. GEMINI (May 22 - June 21): You have never been the sort to put profit ahead of principle and the planets indicate you will be motivated by what you think is right rather than wh...

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Navigating Interest Rate Changes: What Savers, Investors, and Borrowers Need to Know

 Bank of Canada

As the financial landscape shifts, understanding interest rates becomes crucial for anyone managing their money. Let’s explore how these changes impact different groups:

1. Savers: High-Interest Savings Accounts (HISAs)

High-Interest Savings Accounts (HISAs) offer an opportunity for savers to earn more on their deposits. Here are some top HISAs in Canada:

  1. EQ Bank Personal Account: With a 4.00% rate (including a 1.50% bonus for direct deposits), EQ Bank provides a competitive option.
  2. LBC Digital High-Interest Savings Account: Offers a 3.00% rate.
  3. Motive Savvy Savings Account: Boasts a 4.10% rate.
  4. Simplii Financial High Interest Savings Account: A 6.00% rate for the first 5 months.

Remember, HISAs provide liquidity—no penalties for withdrawals—unlike Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs). While GIC rates have surged recently, HISAs remain flexible.

2. Investors: Nominal vs. Real Interest Rates

Investors should understand the difference between nominal and real interest rates. Nominal rates represent the cost of borrowing or return on investments, while real rates account for inflation. Consider both when making investment decisions.

3. Borrowers: Impact of Rate Hikes

Higher interest rates benefit savers but can be challenging for borrowers. As the Bank of Canada holds its benchmark rate steady at 5%, consider these implications:

  • Mortgages: Variable-rate mortgage holders may see increased payments.
  • Consumer Loans: Interest costs rise for personal loans and credit cards.
  • Investment Decisions: Evaluate fixed vs. variable rates.

In summary, stay informed, adapt your financial strategy, and make the most of changing interest rates.

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