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5 Things to Know Today: BoC Decision Day, Fed, Loonie, Tariff Talks and OAS Boost

  Canadian Money Brief 5 Things to Know Today Wednesday, October 28, 2026 It’s a heavy day for Canadian wallets. The Bank of Canada announces its rate decision this morning, the U.S. Fed follows this afternoon, tariff talks are heating up, and bigger OAS deposits land in bank accounts. Here’s what to know. 1 The Bank of Canada decides this morning — a hike is widely expected The decision lands at 9:45 a.m. ET, along with a new Monetary Policy Report. Markets and economists expect a quarter-point increase to 2.50% from 2.25%, which would be the first hike since July 2023. Nineteen of 34 economists in a Reuters poll called for the move, and investors were pricing roughly a 75% chance on Tuesday. The case for it: inflation hit 3.1% in September, driven almost entirely by energy, even as core measures eased below 2%. What it means for you A hike would likely lift prime rates quickly, so variable-rate mortgages and HELOCs feel it first. Roughly, 0.25 points adds about $250 a year per $...

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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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