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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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Israel on High Alert: Increased Threat from Syria Despite Rebel Leaders' Moderate Tone


Despite the moderate tone adopted by the new Syrian rebel leaders, Israel continues to perceive an increased threat from Syria. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz emphasized that the immediate risks to the country have not diminished, and recent developments in Syria have only heightened the threat.

Ahmad al-Sharaa, the de facto leader of Syria and head of the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, stated that Israel was using false pretexts to justify its attacks on Syria. However, he also expressed a desire to avoid new conflicts, focusing instead on rebuilding the war-torn nation.

In response to the perceived threats, Israel has moved into a demilitarized zone inside Syria, including the Syrian side of the strategic Mount Hermon. The Israeli Defence Forces have also conducted numerous strikes on Syria's strategic weapons stockpiles to prevent them from falling into the hands of rebel groups.

Several Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Jordan, have condemned Israel's actions, calling for diplomatic solutions to ensure regional stability.

As Syria focuses on reconstruction and stability, Israel remains vigilant, maintaining its military presence in the region to safeguard its borders.


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