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Bank of Canada Holds at 2.25% — Again: What It Means for Your Mortgage and Markets Today

  Wednesday, June 10, 2026  |  Canadian Money Brief It's official: the Bank of Canada held its overnight rate steady at 2.25% this morning — the fourth consecutive hold in 2026 , following identical decisions in January, March, and April. The move was widely anticipated, but the language in today's statement and Governor Tiff Macklem's 10:30 a.m. press conference are delivering the real signal: the BoC is watching the Middle East conflict carefully, is not yet alarmed by inflation, but is making clear that rate hikes remain on the table if energy prices push inflation higher. Here's the full picture — BoC reaction, Canadian markets, Wall Street, oil, and global moves. 🏦 Bank of Canada: Holds at 2.25% — But With a Warning The Bank of Canada's statement this morning was brief but pointed. The Governing Council noted that "economic activity in Canada has been weak and uncertainty about US trade policy persists," while also flagging that "the conflict ...
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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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