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Holiday Ginger Cookies Recipe

  Ingredients: - 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour - 2 tsp ground ginger - 1 tsp baking soda - 1 tsp ground cinnamon - 1/2 tsp ground cloves - 1/4 tsp salt - 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1 large egg - 1 tbsp water - 1/4 cup molasses - 1/4 cup additional granulated sugar for rolling Instructions: 1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. 2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. 3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, water, and molasses, and beat until well combined. 4. Mix Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. 5. Form Dough Balls: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball in the additional granulated sugar to coat. 6. Bake: Place the...

Canada to Unveil Budget Amid Fiscal Doubts

 

Canadian Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland is set to present the budget on Tuesday, but experts remain skeptical about the government’s fiscal targets. The recent surge in spending plans, particularly in housing, defense, and healthcare, has raised concerns about weakening government finances.

In last year’s Fall Economic Statement (FES), the government aimed to cap the fiscal 2023-24 budget deficit at C$40.1 billion ($29.12 billion), equivalent to about 1.4% of GDP. However, economists estimate that the deficit for the fiscal year ending March 31 could be around C$47 billion, primarily driven by government expenses.

Freeland acknowledges the need for investment in Canada’s current housing affordability crisis, exacerbated by a lack of supply and increased migration. The opposition Conservative Party has criticized the Liberal government for this situation, impacting Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s popularity.

The upcoming budget, scheduled for presentation to parliament on Tuesday at 4:00 p.m. EDT (2000 GMT), will likely force the government to consider new taxes. However, raising taxes in an inflationary environment could hinder business investments necessary for improving Canada’s productivity.

Despite these challenges, Canada’s sovereign debt remains highly rated globally, providing some stability amidst fiscal uncertainties.

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