Skip to main content

Featured

Bank of Canada Holds the Line as Global Turmoil Clouds Outlook

  Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem takes part in a press conference in Ottawa on September 17, 2025 The Bank of Canada has opted to keep its key interest rate steady at 2.25%, a decision that reflects the delicate balancing act policymakers face as global uncertainty intensifies. With inflationary pressures rising and economic growth showing signs of strain, the central bank is navigating a narrow path shaped by forces largely outside its control. A major driver of the current tension is the surge in oil prices triggered by ongoing geopolitical conflict. Higher energy costs are feeding into broader inflation, raising concerns that price pressures could become more persistent. At the same time, elevated borrowing costs and weakening consumer confidence are weighing on domestic economic momentum. By holding the rate, the Bank of Canada signals caution: it aims to avoid stifling growth while still keeping inflation expectations anchored. The central bank emphasized that it rema...

article

Liberals Unveil Ambitious Plan to Address Housing Crisis: 3.9 Million Homes by 2031

 

The federal Liberals have stepped up their commitment to tackle the housing crisis head-on. Their comprehensive plan aims to address a spectrum of housing affordability challenges faced by Canadians, from the elusive dream of homeownership to soaring rental costs and homelessness. Here are the key highlights of their ambitious strategy:

  1. Tax Incentives for Homebuilding:

    • The federal government plans to increase the capital cost allowance rate for apartments from 4% to 10%. This move will empower builders to write off more expenses on their taxes.
    • Additionally, the GST exemption on rentals will extend to student residences built by public universities, colleges, and school authorities.
  2. Funding to Combat Homelessness:

    • Communities across the country grapple with encampments and limited shelter spaces. To address this, the Liberal government is allocating an additional $1 billion over four years to the Reaching Homes program—a federal homelessness initiative.
    • An extra $250 million is earmarked to help communities transition people from encampments into stable housing.
  3. Historic Shift in Land Use:

    • The Liberals pledge to revolutionize how public lands are utilized for housing. Rather than selling off land, they aim to make more of it available for home construction through leasing arrangements.
  4. A Call to Action:

    • Ottawa emphasizes that solving the national housing crisis requires collaboration among all levels of government. Housing Minister Sean Fraser underscores the need for joint efforts and incentives to achieve this critical task.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau aptly describes this plan as “a scale not seen in generations.” With nearly 3.9 million homes envisioned by 2031, the Liberals are committed to reshaping Canada’s housing landscape and ensuring that every Canadian has a place to call home.

Comments