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5 Things to Know Today — September 17, 2026

  Thursday, September 17, 2026  A historic Fed rate hike, Carney embracing EU associate status, a sliding TSX, oil pulling back from four-month highs, and a high-stakes vote in Newfoundland — here is what every Canadian needs to watch today. ITEM 1 OF 5 The Fed Raised Rates for the First Time in Three Years The U.S. Federal Reserve hiked its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points Wednesday to a target range of 3.75–4.00%, defying public pressure from President Trump who had pushed for a cut. It marks the Fed’s first rate increase since 2023. Sixteen of eighteen FOMC officials signalled at least one further hike is likely before year-end. For Canadian markets, the ripple effects are real even though the Bank of Canada (still holding at 2.25%) does not move in lockstep with Washington. Higher U.S. Treasury yields, which have already pushed above 5%, pull Canadian government bond yields upward — and it is those bond yields, not the BoC’s overnight rate, that drive the 5-year ...

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Canada Temporarily Reduces Embassy Staff in Haiti Amid Security Concerns

 

In response to the escalating security situation in Haiti, Canada has made the decision to temporarily reduce the number of Canadian embassy staff in Port-au-Prince. The move comes as gang violence continues to plague the capital city.

Key Points:

  1. Volatility and Safety Concerns:

    • The volatility of the security situation in Haiti has prompted Global Affairs Canada to take action.
    • The lack of reliable supplies and the need to maintain an effective presence in a challenging environment have led to this staffing adjustment.
  2. Essential Personnel Only:

    • Canada will maintain a skeleton crew of essential personnel at its embassy in Haiti.
    • These relocated staff members will continue to fulfill their duties from a third country, primarily the Dominican Republic.
  3. U.S. Parallel Move:

    • The U.S. also recently reduced its diplomatic presence in Haiti due to heightened gang violence.
    • U.S. Marines escorted a portion of their diplomatic corps out of the country, while some remained to provide additional protection.
  4. Challenges for Evacuation:

    • Approximately 3,000 Canadian citizens are currently in Haiti, mainly in and around Port-au-Prince.
    • Evacuating them poses challenges due to the closure of the main airport, which has been targeted by gangs.
  5. Support and Caution:

    • Despite the staffing reduction, Canada’s embassy will continue to support Canadians in Haiti.
    • The public is advised to shelter in place and respect the curfew.

Canada remains committed to assisting its citizens and maintaining diplomatic engagement, even in the face of security risks.



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