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Bank of Canada Holds at 2.25% — What the Fine Print Means for You

  July 15, 2026  |  Canadian Money Brief The Bank of Canada held its policy rate at 2.25% today, exactly as every economist surveyed expected. The number didn't move — but the story underneath it did. Between renewed oil-market chaos, a stubbornly hot inflation reading, and an economy that's finally showing signs of life, this "boring" hold decision was anything but simple. If you've been following our preview piece from earlier this week , this is the follow-up: what actually happened, and what it means for your mortgage, your savings, and your grocery bill. The Decision, in Plain English This marks the sixth consecutive hold since the Bank's last cut back in October 2025. The overnight rate stays at 2.25%, the Bank Rate at 2.5%, and the deposit rate at 2.20%. Bank prime — the number that actually determines your variable mortgage or line of credit rate — stays put at 4.45%. Governor Tiff Macklem has described this level as sitting near the bottom of the Bank...

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Walmart Revamps In-Store Experience: Self-Checkout Machines to be Phased Out

 

In a significant shift in retail operations, Walmart has announced the removal of self-checkout machines from select stores, aiming to enhance the customer shopping experience. This decision comes as part of a broader strategy to provide more personalized service and efficient assistance through human cashiers.

Key Changes:

  • Self-Checkout Removal: Two Walmart stores, one in St. Louis and another in Cleveland, are set to eliminate self-checkout machines within two weeks.
  • Customer Service Focus: The move is intended to improve in-store shopping and offer customers more personalized service.
  • Industry Trend: Walmart follows other retailers like Target and Dollar General in reducing reliance on self-service checkout due to theft concerns and customer feedback.

Impact on Shoppers: Shoppers can expect a more traditional checkout experience with staff assistance, potentially reducing theft and errors associated with self-service machines. The change also reflects Walmart’s commitment to addressing customer needs and enhancing the overall shopping environment.

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