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Blast at Islamabad Mosque Leaves Dozens Dead

                    Blood stains at the site of a deadly explosion at a Shi'ite Muslim mosque in Islamabad, Pakistan A suicide bomber detonated explosives inside a crowded Shi’ite mosque in Islamabad, killing 31 people and injuring many others during Friday prayers. The attack struck the Tarlai neighborhood, where worshippers had gathered in large numbers, turning a moment of devotion into chaos and devastation. Witnesses described a powerful blast that shattered windows, collapsed parts of the structure, and left victims trapped beneath debris. Emergency teams and local residents worked together to rush the wounded to nearby hospitals, where several remain in critical condition. Authorities have heightened security across the capital as investigators work to determine how the attacker breached the area and whether others were involved. The bombing marks one of the deadliest assaults in the city in years and has intensified ...

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Bank of Canada Holds Key Interest Rate at 5% Amid Speculation of a June Cut

 



The Bank of Canada (BoC) has maintained its benchmark interest rate at 5% in its third update of the year. However, the central bank has hinted that a rate cut in June is “within the realm of possibilities.” Governor Tiff Macklem emphasized the need for sustained progress on inflation before any decisive action is taken.

Recent data has fueled speculation about a potential rate cut. Notably, core inflation has eased, and the jobs market has stalled. While the BoC expects core inflation to continue its gradual decline, rising gas prices may keep the Consumer Price Index (CPI) hovering around 3% in the coming months.

Governor Macklem emphasized that the central bank will closely monitor inflation trends. The decline in core inflation must be more than a temporary blip to warrant a rate cut. The BoC seeks assurance that this downward trend is sustainable.

Analysts surveyed by Reuters had anticipated the BoC’s decision to maintain the key overnight rate at 5% for the sixth consecutive meeting. However, recent developments have shifted expectations. BMO Capital Markets’ Canadian rates and macro strategist, Benjamin Reitzes, described the BoC’s statement as “mildly more dovish.” While June remains a possibility, the upcoming CPI reports will play a crucial role in shaping the central bank’s next move.

In summary, the Bank of Canada’s decision to hold the rate steady reflects cautious optimism. As we approach June, all eyes will be on inflation indicators, determining whether the path to price stability warrants a rate adjustment. 

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