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BoC Holds at 2.25%: What the Rate Decision (and Rising Gas Prices) Mean for Your Wallet

  Thursday, July 16, 2026 Sixth consecutive hold. A weaker 2026 growth forecast. And inflation that's running hotter because of gas prices, not the usual suspects. Here's what actually changes for you. The Bank of Canada held its overnight rate at 2.25% on Wednesday, exactly as markets expected. No surprise there. What's more interesting is why it held, and what it revealed about where the economy — and your bills — are headed next. This was the sixth straight hold since the Bank finished its easing cycle back in October. But buried in the accompanying Monetary Policy Report were a few numbers worth your attention. The Numbers That Matter Overnight Rate 2.25% (unchanged) Prime Rate (typical) 4.45% 2026 GDP Growth Forecast 0.7% (cut from 1.2%) 2027 / 2028 Growth Forecast 1.8% each year May CPI Inflation 3.2% Inflation Excluding Gasoline 2.2% Unemployment Rate (June) 6.5% Next Rate Decision September 2, 2026 Why Gas Prices Are Driving This Decision Here's the twist in th...
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Seniors Express Frustration Over Exclusion from Federal $250 Cheque Program

 

A growing number of seniors are voicing outrage after discovering they are ineligible for a new federal initiative aimed at distributing $250 relief cheques to certain low-income groups. The program, designed to address rising costs of living, has left many older Canadians feeling overlooked, particularly those on fixed incomes who say they are struggling to make ends meet.

The federal government announced the plan as part of its broader effort to support vulnerable populations during a period of economic uncertainty. However, eligibility criteria for the cheques prioritize younger low-income households and families, excluding many seniors who fall just outside the income thresholds.

“It’s disappointing,” said one senior from Toronto. “We’re already dealing with skyrocketing prices for essentials like food and medication, and now we’re being left behind.” Advocacy groups, including the Canadian Association for Retired Persons (CARP), have called on the government to expand the program to include older adults, arguing that they face unique financial pressures.

A government spokesperson defended the plan, stating it targets those deemed most in need, but indicated that additional measures to support seniors might be introduced in the future. For now, many older Canadians are calling for immediate action to ensure they are not left out of critical relief efforts.


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