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The Rate Cuts Are Over — Is a Hike Coming?

  July 23, 2026 Oil shocks, sticky inflation and a technical recession are pulling the Bank of Canada in opposite directions at once. For most of the past two years, the only question about the Bank of Canada was how far and how fast it would cut. The overnight rate fell from 5.00% to 2.25% between June 2024 and October 2025, one of the sharpest easing cycles in the Bank's history, and it has held there through six consecutive decisions since. That story is now over. The question on the table for the rest of 2026 isn't whether the Bank cuts again — it's whether the next move is actually a hike. Two conflicting signals, one Bank The case for staying put — or even cutting — comes from the growth side of the ledger. Statistics Canada data showed the economy contracted in both the fourth quarter of 2025 and the first quarter of 2026, meeting the informal definition of a technical recession. That was enough to have some economists warning the Bank had no room to raise rates at a...
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Former Soccer Star Mikheil Kavelashvili Elected President of Georgia, Sparking Concerns Over EU Aspiration

 

In a significant political shift, former soccer player Mikheil Kavelashvili has been elected as the President of Georgia. This development has raised concerns about the country's future relationship with the European Union. Kavelashvili, 53, secured the presidency with the backing of the ruling Georgian Dream party, which holds a strong influence over the 300-seat electoral college that replaced direct presidential elections in 2017.

The election outcome is seen by many as a setback for Georgia's EU aspirations. The opposition has accused the Georgian Dream party of rigging the vote with Moscow's assistance, further straining the country's political landscape. Critics argue that the ruling party's policies are increasingly authoritarian and pro-Russian, which could hinder Georgia's efforts to integrate with the European Union.

Outgoing President Salome Zourabichvili, a pro-Western leader, has vowed to remain in office until a new election is held, citing the lack of legitimacy in the current parliamentary setup. The political turmoil has led to widespread protests and calls for new elections under conditions that ensure the will of the people is accurately represented.

Kavelashvili's presidency marks a pivotal moment for Georgia, as the nation navigates its path between European integration and maintaining relations with Russia. The coming months will be crucial in determining the direction of Georgia's political and international future.

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