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5 Things to Know Today: US CPI, BoC Minutes, Oil Below US$90 (Nov. 10)

  Tuesday, November 10, 2026. U.S. inflation data, Bank of Canada minutes and a sharp slide in oil headline your morning. Here is what matters for your wallet. 1. US inflation report lands at 8:30 a.m. ET Economists expect October U.S. consumer prices to rise 0.3% from September, slower than the 0.6% jump the month before, with core prices up 0.2%. There will be no annual rate this time because last year's government shutdown left a gap in the October 2025 data. Strong U.S. jobs numbers on Friday have already pushed the odds of a Fed rate hike on December 9 above 65%. What it means for you: U.S. rate expectations move Canadian bond yields, which set fixed mortgage rates, and they swing the loonie. A hot reading could push yields higher; a cool one could give borrowers a little breathing room. 2. Bank of Canada releases its rate-hike minutes at 1:30 p.m. ET The central bank publishes its summary of deliberations on the October 28 decision, when it raised its policy rate by a qua...
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Ottawa’s “Better Homes” Program: A Dual Solution for Climate Change and Affordability

 

Ottawa, the vibrant capital city of Canada, is stepping up its game to address two pressing challenges simultaneously: climate change and the affordability crisis. The recently launched “Better Homes” program aims to empower homeowners to retrofit their dwellings, making them more environmentally friendly while easing financial burdens.

The Better Homes Program: What You Need to Know

  1. Interest-Free Loans: Ottawa homeowners can now apply for low-interest loans to fund home retrofits. These upgrades include replacing windows, adding insulation, installing heat pumps, or setting up electric vehicle chargers. The loan amount is tied to the home’s value, allowing borrowers to access up to 10% of their property’s value, capped at $125,000.

  2. Long-Term Repayment: The loans are repaid over a 20-year period through property tax bills. This innovative approach ensures that the financial burden aligns with the benefits gained from energy-efficient improvements.

  3. Green Transition: Residential buildings contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. By focusing on heating, cooling, and electrifying homes and office spaces, Ottawa aims to reduce its carbon footprint. The Better Homes program encourages homeowners to embrace greener alternatives.

  4. Expert Guidance: The City of Ottawa has partnered with the environmental non-profit EnviroCentre to offer free energy retrofit planners to interested homeowners. These experts guide residents through the retrofit process, ensuring effective implementation.

Why It Matters

  • Climate Action: Retrofitting homes directly impacts Ottawa’s emissions. By enhancing energy efficiency, we move closer to achieving the city’s ambitious goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.

  • Affordability: The Better Homes program recognizes that affordability and sustainability go hand in hand. It empowers homeowners to make cost-effective changes that benefit both their wallets and the planet.

  • Community Engagement: Educating diverse demographics about available support is crucial. City staff play a pivotal role in bridging this gap and ensuring that every homeowner can participate.

As Ottawa pioneers this initiative, it sets an example for other cities grappling with similar challenges. The Better Homes program proves that tackling climate change need not come at the expense of affordability—it’s a win-win for all.


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