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5 Things to Know Today: Your Canadian Money Brief

  Wednesday, April 29, 2026 | moneysavings.ca/canadian-money-brief 1. The Bank of Canada Is Watching — And So Should You Markets are closely parsing every signal from the Bank of Canada ahead of its next rate announcement. With inflation holding stubbornly above target in key categories like shelter and groceries, economists are split on whether another cut is on the table or a longer hold is in store. If you're carrying variable-rate debt or sitting on a GIC renewal, now is the time to model both scenarios. What to do: Don't lock into a long-term rate product until after the next announcement. A few days of patience could save you thousands. 2. Spring Housing Market: More Listings, Less Panic After years of near-empty inventory, more Canadian sellers are finally listing — particularly in the Greater Toronto Area and Greater Vancouver. The uptick in supply is giving buyers breathing room they haven't seen since pre-pandemic times. That said, prices haven't mean...

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Federal Feserve Lowers Interest Rates Amid Economic Uncertainty

 

In a move aimed at bolstering the economy, the Federal Reserve has cut interest rates by 25 basis points, bringing the new target range to 4.50%-4.75%. This decision marks the second consecutive rate cut by the central bank, following a larger 50-basis-point reduction in September.

The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) justified the rate cut as a necessary step to support its dual mandate of maintaining stable prices and maximizing employment. Recent economic data has shown mixed signals, with inflation cooling but the labor market showing signs of softening. The latest Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) index indicated that inflation rose 2.1% in September, close to the Fed’s 2% target, but core inflation remained steady at 2.7%.

Fed Chair Jerome Powell emphasized the importance of this adjustment in a press conference, noting that the central bank is committed to navigating the complex economic landscape to ensure sustainable growth. The unanimous vote by the FOMC reflects a cautious approach to monetary policy as the Fed continues to balance the risks of inflation and employment.

This rate cut is expected to make borrowing slightly cheaper for consumers and businesses, potentially stimulating economic activity. However, the Fed’s removal of certain language from its policy statement has raised questions about the pace and number of future rate cuts.

As the economic outlook remains uncertain, the Federal Reserve’s actions will be closely watched by markets and policymakers alike.


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