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The Rate Cuts Are Over — Is a Hike Coming?

  July 23, 2026 Oil shocks, sticky inflation and a technical recession are pulling the Bank of Canada in opposite directions at once. For most of the past two years, the only question about the Bank of Canada was how far and how fast it would cut. The overnight rate fell from 5.00% to 2.25% between June 2024 and October 2025, one of the sharpest easing cycles in the Bank's history, and it has held there through six consecutive decisions since. That story is now over. The question on the table for the rest of 2026 isn't whether the Bank cuts again — it's whether the next move is actually a hike. Two conflicting signals, one Bank The case for staying put — or even cutting — comes from the growth side of the ledger. Statistics Canada data showed the economy contracted in both the fourth quarter of 2025 and the first quarter of 2026, meeting the informal definition of a technical recession. That was enough to have some economists warning the Bank had no room to raise rates at a...

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Cyprus: 50 Years of Division and Reflection

 

On July 20, 2024, Cyprus marked the 50th anniversary of the Turkish invasion, a pivotal event that has left the island divided ever since. The day was observed with a mix of solemn commemorations and celebratory events, reflecting the deep-seated divisions between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots.

At dawn, air raid sirens wailed across Nicosia and other cities, a stark reminder of the invasion that began on this day in 1974. Greek Cypriots mourned the loss and displacement caused by the invasion, with memorial services and moments of silence held to honor the fallen. President Nikos Christodoulides emphasized the importance of reflection and the pursuit of peace, urging for renewed dialogue to resolve the ongoing division.

In contrast, Turkish Cypriots in the north celebrated what they view as a liberation from Greek Cypriot control. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan attended a military parade in northern Nicosia, marking the event as a "peace and freedom operation". The celebrations included a display of military strength, symbolizing the enduring presence and support of Turkey in the region.

Despite recent improvements in relations between Greece and Turkey, the Cyprus issue remains a sensitive and unresolved matter. The island’s division continues to evoke strong emotions and differing narratives on both sides. Efforts for reunification have repeatedly stalled, with the last significant attempt collapsing seven years ago.

As Cyprus reflects on this significant milestone, the hope for a peaceful resolution remains, albeit tempered by the complexities of the past and present.



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