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5 Things to Know Today — September 17, 2026

  Thursday, September 17, 2026  A historic Fed rate hike, Carney embracing EU associate status, a sliding TSX, oil pulling back from four-month highs, and a high-stakes vote in Newfoundland — here is what every Canadian needs to watch today. ITEM 1 OF 5 The Fed Raised Rates for the First Time in Three Years The U.S. Federal Reserve hiked its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points Wednesday to a target range of 3.75–4.00%, defying public pressure from President Trump who had pushed for a cut. It marks the Fed’s first rate increase since 2023. Sixteen of eighteen FOMC officials signalled at least one further hike is likely before year-end. For Canadian markets, the ripple effects are real even though the Bank of Canada (still holding at 2.25%) does not move in lockstep with Washington. Higher U.S. Treasury yields, which have already pushed above 5%, pull Canadian government bond yields upward — and it is those bond yields, not the BoC’s overnight rate, that drive the 5-year ...

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Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico Survives Assassination Attempt

 

In a shocking turn of events, Slovakia’s populist Prime Minister, Robert Fico, was shot multiple times and gravely wounded in an attempted assassination. The incident occurred on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, after a political event in the town of Handlova. Mr. Fico was immediately rushed to a hospital in Bratislava, the country’s capital, approximately two hours away.

The assailant reportedly fired at Mr. Fico as he emerged from a meeting, leaving him with five gunshot wounds. Authorities swiftly arrested a suspect at the scene, but the motive behind the attack remains unclear. The incident has sent shockwaves across Europe, especially considering its timing just before the upcoming elections.

Slovakia, a small country in Central Europe, has been grappling with political tensions and societal divisions. Prime Minister Fico, a prominent figure in Slovakian politics, has faced both support and criticism during his tenure. His survival in this assassination attempt will undoubtedly have significant implications for the nation’s political landscape.

As the investigation unfolds, citizens and leaders alike are left wondering about the underlying reasons behind this brazen attack. The next few hours will be critical for Mr. Fico’s recovery and for understanding the broader context of this violent act.

Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops. Our thoughts are with Prime Minister Robert Fico and his family during this difficult time.



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