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5 Things to Know Today — Fed Hikes, BoE Warns, and the TSX Is Bouncing Back

  The Fed's first rate hike since 2023 rocked markets Wednesday. Here's what it means for your wallet on Friday, September 18. Friday, September 18, 2026  |  moneysavings.ca 1 The Fed Hiked — First Time Since 2023 The U.S. Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to a target range of 3.75%–4.00% on Wednesday — the first hike since June 2023. Chair Kevin Warsh cited persistent inflation tied to elevated oil prices and a still-resilient economy, saying recent inflation readings hadn't improved enough to justify holding. The decision was unanimous. The updated dot plot signals one more potential hike by year-end, then a pause through 2027. Markets initially sold off, but U.S. futures are rebounding this morning as investors reframe the move as a sign the Fed is serious about getting inflation under control. 💡 What It Means for You A higher U.S. federal funds rate puts upward pressure on Canadian bond yields and mortgage rates. The BoC is already...

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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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