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Why Interest Rates Matter for Canadians

Interest rates are the single most powerful lever in Canada's economy.  When the Bank of Canada adjusts its policy rate, the effects reach every household—from the cost of carrying a mortgage to the return on a savings account. With rates currently at 2.25% and significant uncertainty ahead, understanding how rates work has never been more important for your finances. What Is the Bank of Canada's Policy Rate? The Bank of Canada sets the overnight policy rate—the interest rate at which major banks lend money to each other. This rate serves as a benchmark that influences borrowing and lending costs across the entire economy. When the Bank raises or lowers this rate, commercial banks adjust their prime rates accordingly, which directly affects the rates you pay on mortgages, lines of credit, and other loans. The Bank's primary goal is to keep inflation near its 2% target. When inflation runs too hot, the Bank raises rates to cool spending. When the economy slows, it cuts rates...

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Trump Vows New Tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, Threatening Global Trade

 

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump announced on Monday that he will impose new tariffs on products from Canada, Mexico, and China as part of his strategy to address illegal immigration and drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl. Trump stated that he will sign an executive order on his first day in office to implement a 25% tariff on all products entering the United States from Canada and Mexico, and an additional 10% tariff on goods from China.

Trump's announcement has sparked concerns among economists and trade experts, who warn that such measures could lead to higher prices for American consumers and potential retaliatory actions from the affected countries. The tariffs are expected to impact a wide range of products, including automobiles, electronics, and agricultural goods.

Canadian and Mexican officials have yet to respond to Trump's announcement, but the move is likely to strain trade relations between the three countries. The tariffs could also complicate the implementation of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which was designed to facilitate trade and economic cooperation in North America.

As the January 20th inauguration date approaches, businesses and consumers are bracing for the potential economic fallout from these tariffs.


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