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5 Things to Know Today: BoC Holds, Housing Forecast Cut, Fixed-Rate Squeeze (July 17, 2026)

  July 17, 2026 Rates held, home sales forecasts got trimmed again, and fixed-rate mortgage shoppers are feeling the pinch of a wider gap versus variable. Here's what actually moves your money today. 1. The Bank of Canada held its rate at 2.25% — for the sixth straight time The central bank kept its overnight rate unchanged on Wednesday, exactly as economists expected, while trimming its 2026 growth outlook. Policymakers flagged that inflation is gradually cooling but said lingering geopolitical risk and U.S. trade uncertainty keep them cautious about moving in either direction. The next scheduled decision is September 2. What it means for you: Prime rate stays at 4.45%, so variable mortgages, HELOCs, and lines of credit don't move this month. If you're on a variable rate, your payment is unchanged. Savings account and GIC rates aren't likely to shift much either. 2. CREA cut its 2026 home sales forecast again — now expecting a decline The Canadian Real Estate Associat...

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Canada Faces Pressure to Provide Safe Haven for America's Trans Community Following Trump's Gender Order

 

In the wake of President Donald Trump's recent executive order, which mandates the recognition of only two sexes—male and female—there is growing pressure on the Canadian government to offer refuge to America's transgender community. The order, signed on Trump's first day back in office, has sparked widespread concern and backlash, particularly among LGBTQ+ advocates.

The executive order, titled "Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government," effectively rolls back protections for transgender individuals by requiring government documents to recognize only male and female as sexes. This move has left many transgender Americans feeling vulnerable and uncertain about their future.

In response, prominent trans activists in Canada are calling on the federal government to update travel safety guidelines for trans Canadians traveling to the U.S. and to consider offering asylum to those affected by the new policy. Fae Johnstone, executive director of the Society of Queer Momentum, has voiced concerns about the potential dangers trans individuals may face when crossing the border with passports that do not conform to the new U.S. regulations.

Canada has long been seen as a safe haven for LGBTQ+ individuals, offering comprehensive protections for gender identity and expression. However, recent events have highlighted the need for continued vigilance and support for the trans community, both domestically and internationally.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Canadian government will respond to the growing calls for action. For now, trans activists and allies continue to advocate for the rights and safety of transgender individuals on both sides of the border.


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