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Vancouver Budget Balances Books Without Tax Hike

Vancouver city council approved a 2026 budget, which includes a freeze on municipal property taxes. Vancouver City Council has approved a new budget that pledges no increase in property taxes, a move welcomed by many residents facing rising living costs. However, the financial plan comes with significant trade-offs: millions of dollars will be cut from arts programs, park services, and other community initiatives. City officials argue the budget reflects a commitment to fiscal responsibility while easing pressure on households. Critics, however, warn that reductions in cultural and recreational funding could erode the city’s vibrancy and limit access to public spaces. The decision highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing affordability with investment in community life. As Vancouver grows, the debate over how to fund essential services without raising taxes is likely to intensify.

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US Futures Rise After CPI Data, Fed Signals

 

Investors are closely watching the stock market today as US futures tiptoe higher following the release of the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) data. The Federal Reserve’s looming decision on interest rates adds to the anticipation.

Key Points:

  • CPI Snapshot: Economists expect the month-over-month Core CPI to have risen, providing insight into inflation trends.
  • Fed’s Stance: Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has signaled that rate cuts are coming, despite inflation ticking up in February.
  • Market Reaction: S&P 500 futures climbed 0.3%, Nasdaq 100 futures rose 0.6%, and Dow Jones Industrial Average futures gained 0.2%.
  • Gold Surges: The gold price surpassed $2,200 an ounce for the first time.
  • Micron Technology Soars: Micron Technology shares surged as much as 18% in premarket trading due to strong demand from AI companies.

Stay tuned for further updates as the Fed’s double whammy—CPI and interest rate decisions—unfolds.


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