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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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Israel Terminates Agreement with UNRWA, Impacting Aid in Gaza

 

In a significant development, Israel has officially terminated its agreement with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), the primary provider of aid in Gaza. This move follows recent legislation passed by the Israeli parliament, which restricts UNRWA’s operations within Israeli territory.

The Israeli government has accused UNRWA of being infiltrated by Hamas, a claim the agency firmly denies, asserting that it maintains strict neutrality in its operations. The termination of this agreement, which dates back to 1967, is seen as a step towards implementing the new laws that sever ties with the agency.

UNRWA has been a crucial lifeline for millions of Palestinians, providing essential services such as education, healthcare, and food aid. The cessation of cooperation with UNRWA is expected to exacerbate the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where the population relies heavily on international aid.

The international community has expressed concern over the potential humanitarian impact of this decision. Aid groups warn that the new restrictions could severely hamper efforts to address the ongoing crisis in Gaza.

As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on how this decision will affect the delivery of aid and the broader implications for the region’s stability.


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