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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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Canada Post Strike Enters Fourth Week: Negotiations Resume Amid Rising Tensions

The ongoing strike by Canada Post workers has now entered its fourth week, with the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) and Canada Post appearing closer to resuming negotiations. The union, representing over 55,000 striking workers, sent new counter-proposals to the mediator this week, hoping to restart talks. Canada Post has confirmed it is reviewing these proposals.

The strike, which began on November 15, 2024, has caused significant disruptions, with Purolator and UPS pausing shipments from some courier companies due to a surge in package volumes. The business community has been calling for government intervention, but so far, the federal government has not stepped in.

Key sticking points in the negotiations include wage increases and the expansion of weekend delivery services. The union is pushing for better wages and staffing solutions for the proposed expansion, while Canada Post is reviewing how to manage these changes.

As the strike continues, the impact on businesses and consumers grows, with some companies warning of potential losses during the holiday season. The hope is that the new counter-proposals will bring both parties back to the negotiating table and lead to a resolution soon.



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