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Canada’s Housing Market Faces Headwinds Despite BoC Moves

The Bank of Canada’s 25-basis-point cut in September was at best ignored by the national market, with sales falling 1.7 per cent compared to the month before. The Bank of Canada’s recent interest rate adjustments have done little to revive the country’s housing market, which continues to struggle under the weight of broader economic concerns. In September, the central bank cut its policy rate by 25 basis points, bringing it to 2.5%. Yet, instead of sparking renewed activity, national home sales actually fell by 1.7% compared to the previous month.  Economists note that the housing market is no longer moving in lockstep with monetary policy, but is instead being shaped by regional affordability challenges, consumer psychology, and—most critically—job security fears. Uncertainty surrounding U.S. trade policy has also cast a shadow over Canada’s economic outlook. Businesses remain hesitant to invest, and households are wary of making major financial commitments such as home purchas...
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Israel’s Determination Amidst US Arms Embargo Threat

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asserted Israel’s readiness to “stand alone” in the face of a potential US arms embargo. The stern declaration comes as tensions escalate in Rafah, Gaza, where Israeli forces are poised for a possible full-scale invasion to combat Hamas militants.

  • Defiant Stance: Netanyahu evoked the spirit of the 1948 War of Independence, emphasizing Israel’s historical resilience and capability to triumph despite arms embargoes and overwhelming odds.
  • US Warning: President Joe Biden has threatened to withhold critical military supplies, including artillery shells, if Israel proceeds with an invasion of Rafah, citing concerns over civilian casualties.
  • Humanitarian Crisis: The UN reports over 80,000 people have fled Rafah amidst continuous bombardment, with essential supplies like food and fuel dwindling for those remaining.
  • Continued Conflict: Despite peace talks faltering and the US’s stance, Israel maintains that victory over Hamas is unattainable without taking Rafah, underlining the ongoing seven-month war’s complexity.

Netanyahu’s remarks underscore a pivotal moment in Israeli-US relations, as Israel weighs its strategic options against the backdrop of international scrutiny and humanitarian considerations.

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