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Canadian Money Brief: 5 Things to Know Today — May 18, 2026

  A quick scan of the five stories shaping your wallet right now — from the Bank of Canada's next big decision to your mortgage renewal and a brand-new federal agency hunting financial criminals. 1 Bank of Canada Rate Holds at 2.25% — Next Decision Is June 10 The Bank of Canada kept its overnight policy rate steady at 2.25% at its April 29 meeting, citing a rise in energy-driven inflation and ongoing uncertainty from U.S. tariffs. Governing Council held firm while acknowledging a rate hike could become necessary if oil-linked price pressures prove persistent. The next announcement lands on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 — mark your calendar. Why it matters: Your variable-rate mortgage, HELOC, and lines of credit are directly tied to this rate. With bank prime rates sitting at 4.45%, every meeting counts. 2 Markets TSX Slips Below 34,000 as Bond Yields Spike The S&P/TSX Composite Index finished last week down close to 2%, sliding under the 34,000 mark. A global bond market selloff...

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Ukrainians Reflect on Two Years Since Russia’s Invasion

 

As the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine approaches, the streets of Kyiv resonate with a mix of emotions. For Ukrainians, it’s a time to look back at the past two years of conflict, marked by resilience, loss, and hope.

Nearly six million Ukrainians were displaced from their homeland after Russia launched a new military invasion on February 24, 2022. Among them is Yuliia Siemak, a 24-year-old who fled her city of Mykolaiv. Her journey took her from Turkey to Montreal and Quebec City, finally settling in Ottawa. Siemak now works for a non-profit organization, connecting Ukrainian women with employment opportunities.

One poignant photo in Siemak’s camera roll captures her “brave but terrified cat” seeking refuge in a library basement during air raids in her region. It was taken just three days into the invasion. Siemak’s family also fled Mykolaiv, leaving behind their home and memories.

For Siemak, Ottawa has become a comforting political hub. Amid the city’s diverse community and exquisite cuisines, she finds solace. With her immediate family scattered across different places—her brother in Alberta, and her parents in Turkey and Germany—being in Ottawa allows her to be with her people.

The Ukrainian Canadian Congress is organizing a rally on Parliament Hill this Saturday at 3 p.m. The event aims to grieve those who lost their lives since Russia’s full-scale invasion and honor the resilience of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Canadians from coast to coast have been invited, and embassy representatives from Denmark, Poland, and Germany are expected to attend.

As we mark this solemn occasion, let us remember the strength and determination of the Ukrainian people. Despite the challenges, they stand united, unwavering in their pursuit of peace and justice.


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