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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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May Housing Market: Sales Decline Amid Record High Prices

 

In May, sales of previously owned homes declined for the third consecutive month as prices hit an all-time high. Year-over-year sales were down by 2.8%¹. The median home price in the US reached $419,300, contributing to the slowdown in home sales due to elevated interest rates. 

Lawrence Yun, chief economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), expressed surprise at the lack of a spring recovery. Only the Midwest saw an increase in home sales, while other regions remained flat or experienced monthly declines. Despite the market's softer conditions, homes still received multiple offers, and first-time buyers' share of purchases surpassed 30% for the second straight month³. It's a complex market situation, but I hope this summary sheds some light on the current trends! 




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