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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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Ceasefire in Gaza: A Historic Prisoner Swap

In a significant development towards peace, Hamas militants released four female Israeli soldiers held captive since October 7, 2023. The soldiers, Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag, were handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza City. This exchange was part of a broader ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, which also saw the release of 200 Palestinian prisoners.

The ceasefire, brokered by Egypt and Qatar with backing from the United States, aims to end the 15-month-long conflict that has devastated Gaza. The release of the soldiers was met with jubilation in Israel, with crowds gathering in Tel Aviv's Hostages Square to watch the event on large screens.

Israel's release of the Palestinian prisoners, including many serving life sentences for deadly attacks, was a crucial part of the agreement. The ceasefire has so far held, reducing hostilities and allowing humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza.

This historic exchange marks a hopeful step towards lasting peace in the region, with both sides working towards further negotiations to secure the release of remaining hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.




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