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What to Expect from the Bank of Canada on July 15 — And What It Means for Your Mortgage

  The next rate decision is just 17 days away. With inflation running hot, Canada in a technical recession, and mortgage rates on a knife's edge, here is everything you need to know before the announcement. The Short Answer: A Hold Is Almost Certain On July 15, 2026 , the Bank of Canada (BoC) will announce its sixth consecutive interest rate decision since October 2025 — and virtually every indicator points to another hold at 2.25% . The Bank has not moved its overnight rate since it cut to 2.25% last fall. After nine total cuts between June 2024 and October 2025, the easing cycle is effectively paused. Markets currently price the probability of a hike on July 15 at just 1%, and the chance of a cut at around the same slim odds. In other words: almost no one expects anything to change on announcement day. But a "hold" decision does not mean nothing matters. July 15 is one of four dates each year when the BoC releases a full Monetary Policy Report (MPR) alongside its rate ...

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Gas Prices in Ontario Surge to Highest Level Since August 2022

 

As the days grow warmer and people hit the roads for summer adventures, there’s one thing that’s not so hot: gas prices. Across Ontario, the price per litre of gasoline is expected to rise to approximately $1.79 this week, marking the highest gas price since August 2022. Here’s what’s fueling this surge:

  1. Carbon Tax Increase: The recent carbon tax hike is contributing to the rise in gas prices. As governments aim to reduce emissions, consumers are paying more at the pump.

  2. Geopolitical Tensions: Unrest in the Middle East has a ripple effect on oil prices. When tensions rise, so do the costs of crude oil, which directly impacts gas prices.

  3. Seasonal Fuel Blend Change: Semi-annually, the switch-over from winter to summer gasoline occurs. Summer blends are costlier due to chemical differences. While winter blends use butane for better ignition in cold weather, summer blends incorporate expensive alkylates to minimize environmental damage.

Energy analyst Dan McTeague predicts that gas prices will continue to climb throughout the summer, with the May 24 weekend marking the kickoff of high demand. Severe weather events and geopolitical factors also play a role in oil prices. However, McTeague suggests that consumers in the Greater Toronto Area explore nearby locations for slightly cheaper gas, as some stations have more competitive prices.

So, as you fill up your tank this summer, keep an eye on the rising numbers at the pump. And remember, while gas prices may be out of our control, our choices can still make a difference. 


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