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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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Navigating Divorce: The Power of Pre-Nuptial Agreements

 

When it comes to marriage, love and commitment are often at the forefront of our minds. But what about practical considerations? What happens when love fades, and the practicalities of dividing assets and responsibilities come into play? That’s where pre-nuptial agreements (pre-nups) step in.

The ideal outcome with a pre-nup is that you never need to use it. However, life is unpredictable, and there are countless scenarios where having a pre-nup would’ve been helpful. Even for younger couples who may not have significant assets yet, there are compelling reasons to consider one.

Pre-nups aren’t just about safeguarding existing assets. They can also protect what you accumulate during the marriage. Imagine a scenario where one partner inherits a substantial sum from their parents and invests it in the matrimonial home. Without a pre-nup, that windfall could become a point of contention during a divorce. By addressing these financial aspects upfront, couples can avoid messy disputes later on.

Having children significantly impacts a marriage. Whether it’s one parent becoming a stay-at-home caregiver or dealing with daycare costs while both work, children change everything. Pre-nups can provide predictability in divorce proceedings, especially when it comes to spousal support. Sacrifices made for child-rearing should be acknowledged and protected.

Pre-nups can also address growth on assets, whether it’s property or investment accounts. Consider a home brought into the marriage. If the marriage lasts a decade, the property’s value likely appreciates significantly. Without a provision in the pre-nup, an ex-spouse could claim half of that increase. Protecting growth ensures fairness and clarity.

Pre-nups aren’t about planning for failure; they’re about planning for a successful marriage. By addressing financial matters upfront, couples can navigate divorce more smoothly if it ever becomes necessary. So, before you say “I do,” consider the practical side of love and explore the power of pre-nuptial agreements.


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