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Why Interest Rates Matter for Canadians

Interest rates are the single most powerful lever in Canada's economy.  When the Bank of Canada adjusts its policy rate, the effects reach every household—from the cost of carrying a mortgage to the return on a savings account. With rates currently at 2.25% and significant uncertainty ahead, understanding how rates work has never been more important for your finances. What Is the Bank of Canada's Policy Rate? The Bank of Canada sets the overnight policy rate—the interest rate at which major banks lend money to each other. This rate serves as a benchmark that influences borrowing and lending costs across the entire economy. When the Bank raises or lowers this rate, commercial banks adjust their prime rates accordingly, which directly affects the rates you pay on mortgages, lines of credit, and other loans. The Bank's primary goal is to keep inflation near its 2% target. When inflation runs too hot, the Bank raises rates to cool spending. When the economy slows, it cuts rates...

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Israel Storms Gaza City Neighborhood, Orders Palestinians to Move South

 


In a recent escalation of the ongoing conflict, Israel stormed a neighborhood in Gaza City, directing Palestinians to move south. Tanks rolled into the Shejaia neighborhood, firing and causing destruction. Drones also attacked after overnight bombings. The Palestinian Civil Emergency Service reported casualties in Shejaia, but their teams were unable to reach the affected areas due to the ongoing offensive. Meanwhile, the armed wing of Hamas ally Islamic Jihad detonated an explosive device against an Israeli tank east of Shejaia.

The situation remains dire in Gaza, with aid officials warning of high famine risk. Almost half a million people face “catastrophic” food insecurity. Additionally, the death toll from malnutrition and dehydration has risen, with at least 31 children losing their lives. Israel denies creating famine conditions, attributing distribution problems to aid agencies and accusing Hamas of diverting aid.

This conflict continues to have devastating consequences for civilians, and urgent humanitarian efforts are needed to address the crisis.



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