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Canada’s Housing Market Faces Headwinds Despite BoC Moves

The Bank of Canada’s 25-basis-point cut in September was at best ignored by the national market, with sales falling 1.7 per cent compared to the month before. The Bank of Canada’s recent interest rate adjustments have done little to revive the country’s housing market, which continues to struggle under the weight of broader economic concerns. In September, the central bank cut its policy rate by 25 basis points, bringing it to 2.5%. Yet, instead of sparking renewed activity, national home sales actually fell by 1.7% compared to the previous month.  Economists note that the housing market is no longer moving in lockstep with monetary policy, but is instead being shaped by regional affordability challenges, consumer psychology, and—most critically—job security fears. Uncertainty surrounding U.S. trade policy has also cast a shadow over Canada’s economic outlook. Businesses remain hesitant to invest, and households are wary of making major financial commitments such as home purchas...
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Canada’s Unemployment Rate Rises, Fueling Speculation of July Rate Cut

 

Canada’s unemployment rate has climbed for the third time in four months, reaching 6.2%. While the country added 26,700 jobs in May, the rising jobless rate has prompted economists to consider the possibility of a rate cut by the Bank of Canada. Here are the key points:

  1. Job Market Trends:

    • Canada’s labor market saw modest growth, but the unemployment rate edged up by 0.1 percentage point.
    • The unemployment rate has risen by 1.1 percentage points since April last year.
    • The involuntary part-time rate increased, signaling potential weakness in the economy.

  2. Bank of Canada’s Stance:

    • Governor Tiff Macklem hinted at further rate cuts if inflation progress continues.
    • The central bank is “not close” to the limit of divergence from the Federal Reserve.
    • Markets have priced in about a 58% chance of another rate cut next month.

  3. Economic Outlook:

    • While there’s evidence supporting lower interest rates, the economy hasn’t plummeted.
    • Expect a gradual pace of interest rate reductions this year, with cuts likely at alternate meetings.

In summary, Canada’s rising unemployment rate has put pressure on the Bank of Canada to consider a rate cut in July. Economists are closely monitoring the situation, and the decision will have implications for the Canadian dollar and bond yields. Stay tuned for further updates as the economic landscape evolves.


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