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Vancouver Budget Balances Books Without Tax Hike

Vancouver city council approved a 2026 budget, which includes a freeze on municipal property taxes. Vancouver City Council has approved a new budget that pledges no increase in property taxes, a move welcomed by many residents facing rising living costs. However, the financial plan comes with significant trade-offs: millions of dollars will be cut from arts programs, park services, and other community initiatives. City officials argue the budget reflects a commitment to fiscal responsibility while easing pressure on households. Critics, however, warn that reductions in cultural and recreational funding could erode the city’s vibrancy and limit access to public spaces. The decision highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing affordability with investment in community life. As Vancouver grows, the debate over how to fund essential services without raising taxes is likely to intensify.

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US Stocks Waver Amid Rate Cut Speculation



As the financial world turns its gaze towards the Federal Reserve, US stocks have shown a slight decline. Investors are eagerly anticipating a speech from Jerome Powell, the Fed Chair, which could provide hints on the future of interest rates. The S&P 500 has seen a minor dip, while the Dow Jones remains unsteady. The Nasdaq, largely influenced by tech, has taken a more significant hit after a collective downturn.

The market’s early-year rally has been dampened by strong economic indicators, which have lessened the likelihood of the anticipated three Fed rate cuts. The Atlanta Fed’s Raphael Bostic predicts the first rate reduction might not occur until the year’s final quarter.

Amidst these developments, all eyes are on the outcome of Disney’s proxy fight with Nelson Peltz, as well as the impact of a major earthquake on TSMC’s operations, a key supplier to tech giants like Apple and Nvidia. Intel’s shares have also dropped following a report of increased operating losses. The financial community is on alert, waiting for signals that could steer the economic course.

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