Skip to main content

Featured

Why Interest Rates Matter for Canadians

Interest rates are the single most powerful lever in Canada's economy.  When the Bank of Canada adjusts its policy rate, the effects reach every household—from the cost of carrying a mortgage to the return on a savings account. With rates currently at 2.25% and significant uncertainty ahead, understanding how rates work has never been more important for your finances. What Is the Bank of Canada's Policy Rate? The Bank of Canada sets the overnight policy rate—the interest rate at which major banks lend money to each other. This rate serves as a benchmark that influences borrowing and lending costs across the entire economy. When the Bank raises or lowers this rate, commercial banks adjust their prime rates accordingly, which directly affects the rates you pay on mortgages, lines of credit, and other loans. The Bank's primary goal is to keep inflation near its 2% target. When inflation runs too hot, the Bank raises rates to cool spending. When the economy slows, it cuts rates...
Post a Comment
Read more

article

Labels

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. 


Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment