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Canada’s Housing Market Faces Headwinds Despite BoC Moves

The Bank of Canada’s 25-basis-point cut in September was at best ignored by the national market, with sales falling 1.7 per cent compared to the month before. The Bank of Canada’s recent interest rate adjustments have done little to revive the country’s housing market, which continues to struggle under the weight of broader economic concerns. In September, the central bank cut its policy rate by 25 basis points, bringing it to 2.5%. Yet, instead of sparking renewed activity, national home sales actually fell by 1.7% compared to the previous month.  Economists note that the housing market is no longer moving in lockstep with monetary policy, but is instead being shaped by regional affordability challenges, consumer psychology, and—most critically—job security fears. Uncertainty surrounding U.S. trade policy has also cast a shadow over Canada’s economic outlook. Businesses remain hesitant to invest, and households are wary of making major financial commitments such as home purchas...
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New Delhi Shuts Down Schools and Construction Amid Severe Air Pollution Crisis

The Indian capital has been enveloped in a thick, toxic smog, prompting authorities to take drastic measures as air pollution levels soared to their worst this season. The city’s air quality index (AQI) reached a hazardous 481, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended safe limit.

In response, the Delhi government has closed schools, halted all construction activities, and banned non-essential trucks from entering the city. Only students in grades 10 and 12 will continue with physical classes, while others will switch to online learning.

The severe pollution is attributed to a combination of factors, including the burning of crop residue by farmers in neighboring states, emissions from vehicles, and industrial activities. The colder temperatures have also contributed by trapping pollutants close to the ground.

Authorities have implemented stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which includes the strictest curbs to mitigate the pollution. Residents, especially children and the elderly, are advised to stay indoors as much as possible.

Despite the hazardous conditions, many residents continue their daily routines, with some expressing frustration over the recurring issue. “Everyone has a sore throat,” said Sanjay Goel, a local shopkeeper. "They should ban crop residue burning … it’s just smoke everywhere".

As the city grapples with this environmental crisis, the need for long-term solutions to combat air pollution becomes increasingly urgent.








The Indian capital has been enveloped in a thick, toxic smog, prompting authorities to take drastic measures as air pollution levels soared to their worst this season. The city’s air quality index (AQI) reached a hazardous 481, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended safe limit12.

In response, the Delhi government has closed schools, halted all construction activities, and banned non-essential trucks from entering the city. Only students in grades 10 and 12 will continue with physical classes, while others will switch to online learning23.

The severe pollution is attributed to a combination of factors, including the burning of crop residue by farmers in neighboring states, emissions from vehicles, and industrial activities. The colder temperatures have also contributed by trapping pollutants close to the ground4.

Authorities have implemented stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which includes the strictest curbs to mitigate the pollution. Residents, especially children and the elderly, are advised to stay indoors as much as possible4.

Despite the hazardous conditions, many residents continue their daily routines, with some expressing frustration over the recurring issue. “Everyone has a sore throat,” said Sanjay Goel, a local shopkeeper. "They should ban crop residue burning … it’s just smoke everywhere"4.

As the city grapples with this environmental crisis, the need for long-term solutions to combat air pollution becomes increasingly urgent.

1: MSN 2: India TV News 3: Yahoo News 4: ABC News

Would you like to know more about the measures being taken to address air pollution in New Delhi?

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