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BoC Holds at 2.25%: What the Rate Decision (and Rising Gas Prices) Mean for Your Wallet

  Thursday, July 16, 2026 Sixth consecutive hold. A weaker 2026 growth forecast. And inflation that's running hotter because of gas prices, not the usual suspects. Here's what actually changes for you. The Bank of Canada held its overnight rate at 2.25% on Wednesday, exactly as markets expected. No surprise there. What's more interesting is why it held, and what it revealed about where the economy — and your bills — are headed next. This was the sixth straight hold since the Bank finished its easing cycle back in October. But buried in the accompanying Monetary Policy Report were a few numbers worth your attention. The Numbers That Matter Overnight Rate 2.25% (unchanged) Prime Rate (typical) 4.45% 2026 GDP Growth Forecast 0.7% (cut from 1.2%) 2027 / 2028 Growth Forecast 1.8% each year May CPI Inflation 3.2% Inflation Excluding Gasoline 2.2% Unemployment Rate (June) 6.5% Next Rate Decision September 2, 2026 Why Gas Prices Are Driving This Decision Here's the twist in th...
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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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