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Bank of Canada Rate Decision Countdown: What to Expect on July 15

  Published July 4, 2026 In eleven days, the Bank of Canada will make its fifth interest rate call of 2026. If you've got a mortgage renewing, a variable rate that moves with the Bank's decisions, or savings sitting in a high-interest account, this is the date to have circled. Here's where things stand heading into July 15, and what the smart money is expecting. Where the rate sits right now The Bank of Canada has held its policy rate at 2.25% since its last two decisions, with the Bank Rate at 2.50% and the deposit rate at 2.20%. The July 15 announcement, released at 9:45 a.m. ET, will also come with a full Monetary Policy Report, since the Bank publishes its detailed economic projections quarterly alongside the January, April, July, and October decisions. Why most economists expect another hold The case for standing pat comes down to two forces pulling in opposite directions: Inflation is running hot, but mostly for one reason. Canada's headline inflation rate jumped...

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Unlocking Summer Travel Bargains: Tips and Deals

As the summer travel season heats up, travelers are eager to explore new destinations and make the most of their vacations. Whether you’re a backpacker, beachcomber, or globe-trotter, there are bargains waiting for you. Let’s dive into some tips and deals to help you plan your perfect summer getaway.

1. Be Flexible with Dates

Demand for European vacations is sizzling hot, leading to crowded cities and pricey hotel rooms. However, there are still deals to be found. If you can be flexible with your travel dates, book ASAP. Now is the sweet spot for snagging a good deal. Room rates in popular European cities like Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin, Dublin, London, Paris, and Stockholm have increased by around 10% for summer travel, but bargains exist if you act swiftly.

2. Gas Prices and Airfares

Good news for road warriors: Gas prices are lower than last year, with the national average currently at $3.45 per gallon. If you’re hitting the road for Independence Day, expect even more Americans to join you—AAA projects 70.9 million travelers on the highways, a 5% increase from last year. As for air travel, domestic airfare for the Fourth of July weekend is down 18% from last year, averaging $263 per ticket. So, add jumping on a plane to your list of Fourth of July pastimes.

3. Popular International Destinations

Paris is a top choice for international travelers, especially due to the Paris Olympics in July. However, Japan wears the crown as a year-round favorite. More than 57,000 flights are scheduled to take off from US airports, bringing an estimated 13 million Americans to destinations across Europe this summer.

In Summary

Summer travel bargains are out there if you act quickly and stay flexible. Whether you’re exploring Europe, road-tripping, or jetting off to exciting destinations, keep an eye out for deals. Happy travels!


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