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Canada's Economy Just Grew 3.3% — Here's Why That Makes a September Rate Cut Even Less Likely

  Published August 29, 2026 If you've been holding out hope that a slowing economy might finally push the Bank of Canada toward a rate cut, Friday's numbers just closed that door a little further. Statistics Canada reported that the Canadian economy grew at an annualized pace of 3.3% in the second quarter — the fastest rate since 2023 — and revised figures show the first quarter expanded 0.3% rather than shrinking as originally reported. That confirms Canada never actually slid into a technical recession this year. It's good news for the economy. It's less good news if you were counting on lower borrowing costs anytime soon. What actually drove the growth The rebound was broad-based. Exports posted their strongest performance in 39 months, business investment in factories, equipment and commercial real estate jumped, and consumer spending held up as well. On a per-person basis, output grew at a 3.8% annualized clip — the quickest pace since late 2021, even with Canada...

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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


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