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Canada's Economy Is Slowing: 5 Money Moves to Make Before Year-End

  Canadian Money Brief | October 22, 2026 Canada's economic outlook has weakened, and that is a good reason to take a fresh look at your finances before the end of the year. The Parliamentary Budget Officer's October outlook projects real GDP growth of just 0.9% in 2026, down from its earlier forecast of 1.1%. The report points to changing trade conditions and U.S. tariffs as key pressures. This does not mean a recession is guaranteed. But when the economy faces uncertainty, a few practical steps can help households stay prepared and avoid unnecessary costs. 1. Review your monthly budget Check your last two or three months of bank and credit-card statements. Look for subscriptions you no longer use, recurring fees, food waste, and purchases that can be delayed. Even small cuts can free up cash for savings or debt repayment. Try this: Choose one spending category to reduce this month and move the money you save into a separate savings account. 2. Build or top up your emergency ...

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Global Energy-Related CO2 Emissions Reach Unprecedented Levels in 2023

 

In a concerning development, global energy-related emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) surged to a record high last year. The International Energy Agency (IEA) reported that these emissions rose by 410 million tonnes, representing a 1.1% increase, bringing the total to 37.4 billion tonnes.

Several factors contributed to this alarming trend:

  1. Fossil Fuel Use in Drought-Affected Regions: Countries grappling with droughts faced challenges in hydropower production. As a result, they turned to fossil fuels, exacerbating emissions.
  2. China’s Economic Reopening: China’s economy rebounded, leading to increased energy demand and subsequent emissions.
  3. Renewables and Electric Vehicles: While clean technologies like wind, solar, and electric vehicles helped curb emissions growth, other factors offset these gains.

Scientists emphasize that steep cuts in CO2 emissions are essential to meet global climate goals outlined in the Paris Agreement. Without rapid reductions, we risk runaway climate change. The challenge lies in swiftly transitioning away from fossil fuels and embracing sustainable alternatives.

Regional Trends

  • United States: Energy-related emissions fell by 4.1%, primarily driven by reductions in the electricity sector.
  • European Union: Emissions dropped by nearly nine per cent due to increased renewable power generation and decreased coal and gas power.
  • China: Despite contributing significantly to solar, wind, and electric vehicle additions, China’s emissions rose by 5.2% as it recovered from COVID-19-related lockdowns.

Globally, electric vehicles accounted for one in five new car sales in 2023, reaching 14 million—a remarkable 35% increase compared to 2022.

The urgency to address this crisis cannot be overstated. Our collective efforts must focus on sustainable energy sources and innovative solutions to combat climate change. 

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