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Bond Yields Are Nearing 5%: What It Means for Your Mortgage and HELOC

  Published September 11, 2026 Something is happening in the bond market this week that matters more to your wallet than the daily swings in the TSX. The yield on the 10-year US Treasury note closed in on 5% on Friday — 4.95% , its highest level since 2023 and approaching territory not seen since 2007 — after climbing 18 basis points in a single week. Canadian bond yields have followed the same path: the 10-year Government of Canada bond hit its highest level in over two years earlier this month, and the 5-year bond — the one that actually sets your fixed mortgage rate — has drifted up to roughly 3.41%, about a quarter-point higher than it was a month ago. If you're renewing a mortgage, shopping for a HELOC, or just trying to figure out whether now is the moment to lock in, here's what's actually going on and what it means for your payments. Why bond yields, not the Bank of Canada, are driving fixed rates right now It's a common mix-up: people watch the Bank of Canada...
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Proposed Tax Change Could Impact Electricity and Gas Bills in Certain Provinces



Electricity Canada has raised concerns about a proposed tax change that could have significant implications for consumers. The alteration, outlined in the government’s bill to implement its fall mini-budget, aims to align Canada’s tax rules with those of other countries that operate across multiple jurisdictions.

The proposed adjustment to the Income Tax Act would bring Canada in line with the United States, the United Kingdom, and Ireland. However, the impact on privately operated utilities—particularly electricity and natural gas companies—could be substantial.

Michael Powell, Vice President of Government Relations at Electricity Canada, warns that this change may force privately operated utilities to increase the rates charged to consumers. The issue arises from the reduction in tax exemptions for debt loads, which would result in higher income tax bills for these companies.

As private utilities often carry higher debt loads to maintain lower rates, the proposed tax change could lead to rate hikes for electricity and natural gas services. Consumers in affected provinces should closely monitor developments and prepare for potential adjustments to their utility bills.

While the goal is to harmonize tax rules internationally, the impact on everyday Canadians remains a critical consideration. As the bill progresses, citizens and policymakers alike will be watching closely to assess its effects on household budgets.


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