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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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Stock Market Today: World Shares Mostly Advance After Wall St Comeback from Worst Loss Since 2022

Shares were mostly higher in Asia and Europe on Friday following a patchy comeback by Wall Street from its worst loss since 2022. Here are the key highlights:

  • Asia:
    • Tokyo: The Nikkei 225 index initially gained but later slipped 0.5% to 37,667.41. Tokyo’s core consumer price index rose 2.2% in July, adding to expectations that the Bank of Japan may raise its near-zero benchmark interest rate.
    • Hong Kong: The Hang Seng edged 0.2% higher.
    • Shanghai: The Composite index edged 0.1% lower.
    • Seoul: The Kospi surged 0.9%.
    • Taiwan: The Taiex sank 3.3% after reopening following a typhoon-related closure.
  • Europe:
    • Germany: The DAX edged 0.2% higher.
    • France: The CAC 40 rose 0.8%.
  • U.S. Futures and Oil Prices:
    • U.S. futures and oil prices also saw gains.

The split performance on Wall Street saw general stocks and other previously downtrodden areas rise, while Big Tech stocks gave back some of their recent gains. Overall, markets remain volatile, influenced by global economic conditions and investor sentiment.

Remember to stay informed and consider professional advice when making investment decisions. 


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