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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...
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Economists Criticize Liberals' New Stimulus Package, Question Long-Term Impact

 

Canada’s Liberal government has unveiled a new stimulus package aimed at addressing economic uncertainty, but the move is drawing skepticism from economists who question its rationale and potential implications for fiscal policy.

The package, which includes targeted financial relief for low- and middle-income households, tax credits for businesses, and infrastructure investments, is designed to counter inflationary pressures and boost economic activity. However, experts warn that such measures may have unintended consequences.

“Introducing new spending programs in the current economic climate could exacerbate deficits and put additional strain on taxpayers in the long run,” said Kevin Milligan, an economics professor at the University of British Columbia. “It’s not good for tax policy to continually rely on temporary fixes.”

Critics also argue that the package lacks clear metrics for success and risks fueling inflation rather than curbing it. Others, however, defend the plan as necessary to support vulnerable Canadians amid rising costs of living and global economic uncertainty.

As Parliament debates the package, opposition parties have demanded greater transparency on how the funding will be allocated and its expected impact on Canada’s long-term economic health.


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