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BoC Held Again at 2.25% — But a Rate Hike Is Now More Likely Than Not Before Year-End

  Bond markets put the odds of an October 28 hike at 57%. Here's what the big banks are forecasting, what it means for your mortgage payment, and how to think about your next move. MoneySavings.ca · September 17, 2026 The Bank of Canada kept its overnight rate at 2.25% on September 2 — the seventh consecutive hold since the last cut in October 2025. On the surface, nothing changed. Below the surface, everything did. Governor Tiff Macklem's post-decision language was the most hawkish the Bank has sounded in over a year. He flagged that persistently high oil prices (Brent has since touched $107) and new U.S. tariffs — combined with Canada's own $27.6 billion retaliation list — are creating genuine upside risks to inflation. The BoC's August deliberations summary, released September 16, confirmed the Governing Council is now actively weighing a hike, not just a hold. The August CPI reading that came in on September 14 didn't settle anything: headline inflation held at ...

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History in the Making: Botswana Unearths 2,492-Carat Diamond

 

In a remarkable discovery, Botswana has unearthed the largest diamond found in over a century. The colossal 2,492-carat stone was recently revealed at a viewing ceremony in Gaborone, the country’s capital. This extraordinary find, weighing approximately half a kilogram, marks a historic moment for Botswana and the diamond industry.

The as-yet-unnamed diamond was presented to the world by Botswana’s President, Mokgweetsi Masisi. His awe-struck reaction—“It is overwhelming. I am lucky to have seen it in my time”—captures the significance of this remarkable gem. Senior government officials were equally amazed, gathering to take a closer look at the fist-sized wonder.

The diamond was recovered from the Karowe Mine in central Botswana by Lucara Diamond Corp., a Canadian mining company. Using advanced X-ray technology, Lucara identified this “exceptional” rough diamond, which remains intact and of high quality. While its value is yet to be determined, it already holds a place in history as the largest diamond found in 119 years.

For context, the famous Cullinan Diamond, discovered in South Africa in 1905, weighed 3,106 carats and was cut into gems that now adorn the British Crown Jewels. Botswana, known for its natural diamond production, continues to make headlines with its remarkable finds. As the second-biggest producer of natural diamonds globally, the country has consistently unearthed some of the world’s most significant stones. 

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