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Lock In or Wait? Why Two Big Banks Say Rates Are Going Up in October

  Published September 2, 2026 The Bank of Canada did exactly what all 35 economists in Reuters' latest poll expected today: it held its overnight rate at 2.25% for a sixth straight decision, keeping the prime rate at 4.45%. Bond markets had priced in barely a 3% chance of anything else. What's not settled is what happens next — and on that question, Canada's biggest banks are more split than they've been all year. Four of the Big Six expect the Bank to sit tight through the end of 2026. Two expect it to start hiking as soon as October. If you're renewing a mortgage in the next few months, that gap isn't academic — it's the difference between locking in now and gambling on a rate cycle turning against you. The Split, Bank by Bank Here's where the six largest banks stand on where the overnight rate lands by the end of 2026: Bank Year-end 2026 call Stance BMO 2.25% (hold) Hold camp CIBC 2.25% (hold) Hold camp RBC 2.25% (hold) Hold camp TD 2.25% (hold) Hold...

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Qatar Suspends Gaza Ceasefire Mediation Amid Stalemate

 

 Qatar has decided to suspend its mediation efforts in the Gaza ceasefire negotiations, citing a lack of progress and commitment from both Hamas and Israel. This decision marks a significant setback in the ongoing efforts to broker peace in the region.

An official briefed on the matter stated that Qatar will not resume its role until both parties demonstrate a sincere willingness to negotiate in good faith. The official also mentioned that the political office of Hamas in Doha “no longer serves its purpose” under the current circumstances.

Qatar has been a key mediator alongside Egypt and the United States, working tirelessly to facilitate a ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas. However, the latest round of talks in mid-October failed to yield any agreement, with Hamas rejecting a short-term ceasefire proposal.

The suspension of Qatar’s mediation efforts underscores the growing frustration with the stalled negotiations and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. It remains to be seen whether this move will prompt a renewed commitment from both sides to return to the negotiating table.


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