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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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S&P 500 and Nasdaq Set to Jump as Nvidia Surge Continues


US stock indexes are poised for gains early today as Nvidia’s record-breaking surge continues. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite futures lead the way, up about 0.7%, while S&P 500 futures point up around 0.4%. This follows the S&P 500’s 31st record close of the year on Tuesday.

Nvidia’s meteoric rise has captured investors’ attention, with its stock up more than 170% so far this year. Just two weeks after dethroning Apple as the No. 2 most valuable company, Nvidia now claims the title of the world’s most valuable public company, surpassing Microsoft.

Elsewhere, global central banks are in focus, with the Swiss National Bank cutting rates for the second time this year. The Bank of England maintains its benchmark rate at a 16-year high but signals a potential rate cut in the summer. In the US, traders continue to bet on a Fed rate cut by September.

Keep an eye on weekly jobless claims data today for further insights into the macroeconomic landscape.


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